Kelly
Homemade Stain Remover (Great for Laundry, Upholstery, and More)
Tough stains don’t stand a chance against this homemade stain remover! It’s made with just two ingredients: hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. This combo is famous for tackling everything from grass and food stains to grease, blood, and even those mystery marks that show up on kids’ clothes.
Why is this stain remover so effective?
Hydrogen peroxide is a gentle, natural bleach that breaks down stains and lifts them out of fabric. Dish soap is a powerful degreaser that helps loosen up oily or sticky messes. Together, they work like a charm-without the harsh chemicals or strong smells of store-bought stain removers.
Who should use it?
This stain remover is perfect for families, pet owners, or anyone who wants a safe, non-toxic way to treat stains. It’s great for laundry day, but you can also use it on carpets, upholstery, and even car seats. Just avoid using it on delicate fabrics like silk or anything labeled “dry clean only.”
Why choose homemade?
This recipe is super affordable and uses ingredients you probably already have at home. It’s free of dyes, fragrances, and harsh chemicals, so it’s gentle on your skin and safe for kids and pets. Plus, you’re cutting down on plastic waste by reusing your own bottles. If you would like to read more about home based natural cleaners you can read our “Why I Ditched Toxic Chemical Cleaners” article.
How to use it: Mix 1 part dish soap (like Dawn) with 2 parts hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle or small jar. Shake gently to combine. Apply directly to the stain, making sure to cover it completely. Let it sit for at least 5–10 minutes (longer for tough stains). For laundry, wash as usual. For carpets or upholstery, blot with a clean cloth and rinse with water. Always test on a small part first it's safe for most dye stable fabrics / washable and do not use hydrogen peroxide on spandex, wool, silk, mohair, leather or rubber. Extra tip:
Always test on a small, hidden area first to make sure the fabric won’t fade. Store your stain remover in a dark bottle if possible, as hydrogen peroxide can lose strength when exposed to light.
These homemade cleaners are easy, safe, and just as effective as many store-bought options. Give them a try and see the difference for yourself!
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