Learn to recognise common stain types—oil-based, natural, and biological—and discover expert-recommended cleaning methods to restore your garments effectively. 

When dealing with stains, knowing their type helps determine the most effective cleaning method. There are three main stain categories:

1. Oil, Grease, and Solvent-Soluble Stains

These stains include cooking oils, cosmetics, grease, wax, chewing gum, and even super glue. They typically respond best to professional dry cleaning methods using chemical solvents, which effectively break down oils without damaging your clothes.

2. Natural Stains from Plants or the Earth

Common examples include stains from vegetables, fruits, grass, dirt, wine, coffee, tea, beer, and tobacco. These are best tackled with water-based cleaning methods, such as specialist wet cleaning, because water and detergent solutions easily lift these natural pigments from fabrics.

3. Stains from Living Organisms

These protein-based stains include blood, milk, sweat, bodily fluids, eggs, and ice cream. Such stains require water and detergent solutions that specifically target proteins, gently but effectively removing them without setting the stain.

Identifying Your Stain

Often, the location of the stain or type of garment gives clues about its nature. A quick tip:

Oil-based stains typically have soft, blurry edges around the stained area (for example, cooking oil or makeup stains).

Water-based stains usually have clearer, hard edges, like a wine or coffee spill.

(Include relevant photos here to visually illustrate these differences clearly.)

 

“Having trouble removing a stubborn stain? Send us an enquiry, and we’ll help you restore your garment.”

 

Professional Stain Removal at Thames Laundry

If you’re struggling with a stubborn stain, we’re here to help. At Thames Laundry, we carefully inspect each garment, accurately categorise stains, and develop targeted cleaning methods for the best possible outcome.