The sun does so much more than just sustain life and provide warmth — it can also be the solution to pesky stains. Dealing with unsightly sweat stains or a dark blood stain that just won’t come out? Harness the sun’s rays to get rid of them for good.
Let There Be Light
Organic stains are a common, messy part of everyday life. They include sweat stains underneath your pits, blood stains from an unexpected bloody nose, and the many puke and poop stains that come with having a newborn. If you’re dealing with any or all of these stubborn stains, you may be able to eliminate them with just water, vinegar, and the heat of the sun.
First, wet the stained garment, either by running it through a wash cycle or by submerging it in water. (Tip: Always use cold water for organic stains; warm water can “cook” the protein in the stain, causing it to set.) Next, lay the item as flat as possible with the stain facing upward. Apply an acid, such as lemon juice or distilled white vinegar, directly to the stain. Finally, let the garment sit in direct sunlight for two to three hours. Once enough time has passed, bring the garment back inside.
Upon inspection, you should notice that the stain has either completely disappeared or at least started to fade. If it’s still obvious, simply repeat the process until the stain is gone.
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Word to the Wise
While this hack seems fairly straightforward, there are two important things to keep in mind. First, only use this method on durable garments, as the sun’s harsh rays can damage delicate fabrics. Second, stick to plain white items to avoid bleaching out more vibrant hues. At the end of the day, it’s best to take any delicate or valuable items to a professional cleaning service rather than risk ruining them further.
