Laundry Day

When I decided to do this blog it was so I could learn new things every day and make my home better for my family.  I wanted to learn to make better meals, which I am working on daily, I wanted to learn how to make beautiful things, and I wanted to learn how to keep my house as beautiful as Martha does. So far I have a few projects in the works in the craft area,I will post them soon, but I had not tackled any of her fab organizing or housekeeping tips, until today.  Today I tackle "Mount Doom" aka the giant pile of laundry in my teeny laundry room.  With a busy toddler and husband who works outdoors there are bound to be a bunch of stains to tackle and I am thrilled to have these tips to follow and wanted to share them.

Martha's Stain Chart
Combination Solvents 
(Shout, Spray 'n Wash)
All-purpose stain removers, particularly good on greasy stains.

I love my Spray and Wash, I wish they had it in purse size, if they do let me know!  The Tide pens and the Bleach pens are awesome too!

Oil Solvents
(K2r, Afta)
Also called dry-cleaning fluid, these remove oily, greasy stains. Safe on nonwashables. Use only on dry fabric in a well-ventilated area. Air clothes after using.

Only for the hard core!  If you use this I want to know all about it!

Digestants
(Biz, Era Plus, Wisk)
Also called enzyme cleaners, these detergents contain enzymes that "eat" protein stains, like grass, blood, and egg yolk. Apply directly to damp fabric, or dilute in water, and then soak clothes. Use cold water when treating blood stains. Wool and silk are proteins, so digestants should never be used on these fibers.
 

Absorbants 
(cornstarch, talcum powder)
Sprinkle on fresh grease stains, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then scrape off. Then you can treat the stain.
DetergentsA mild, clear-liquid dishwashing detergent is an effective all-purpose cleaner. Apply it straight, wait five minutes, then flush or dab with water.

Bleaches
Remove the color left behind by stains with mild bleaches, such as lemon juice, white vinegar (mixed 1:1 with water), 2 percent or 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia (2 parts water to 1 part ammonia; do not use on wool or silk). Use a cotton swab to dab the bleach, or place paper towels under the fabric, and use an eyedropper to flush the area with the proper bleach. Chlorine bleach, diluted with water, is a last resort.

This is sad news for me, I LOVE bleach!

Denatured Alcohol 
Effective at breaking down some stains and evaporates without leaving a residue.

Mineral Spirits
For greasy stains, like tar. Air clothes after using.

Glycerin
Available at drugstores, it is particularly good for ballpoint ink.