Tip Store: Laundry Pre-wash Stain Treatments
Pre-Wash Laundry Treatment
Ingredients:
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup cloudy ammonia
1/2 cup liquid laundry detergent
1/2 cup cool water
Method:
Mix all the liquids together and decant into a spray bottle. To use, spray onto clothing or stain before adding to the wash. Wash as you normally would.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup cloudy ammonia
1/2 cup liquid laundry detergent
1/2 cup cool water
Method:
Mix all the liquids together and decant into a spray bottle. To use, spray onto clothing or stain before adding to the wash. Wash as you normally would.
Beauty Soap Keeps Whites White
Re keeping whites white… I grabbed a bar of soap in my hurry one day …it turned out to be Dove soap… the soap removed the colour from the shirt I had been trying to get a grease spot off. I decided to see what would happen with different types of material, different ages and different dyes…without fail it removed the colour each time. So now I have dove soap for the express purpose of whitening my whites… works a treat and is cheap to buy at those cheap $2 stores that are everywhere.
Contributed by Linda Stapleton, 7th December 2017
Re keeping whites white… I grabbed a bar of soap in my hurry one day …it turned out to be Dove soap… the soap removed the colour from the shirt I had been trying to get a grease spot off. I decided to see what would happen with different types of material, different ages and different dyes…without fail it removed the colour each time. So now I have dove soap for the express purpose of whitening my whites… works a treat and is cheap to buy at those cheap $2 stores that are everywhere.
Contributed by Linda Stapleton, 7th December 2017
Old Dry Cleaning Trick Removes Underarm Stains
Work shirt underarm stains…This has been a major issue for me. Hubby has badly stained shirts and the build-up of antiperspirant in the material meant I have had to get rid of too many shirts. Over time the cost has been terrible.
I have tried everything and when I say everything, I mean I have spent years trying it all. I even resorted to CLR. Finally I simply had had enough. Once again a shirt sat in front of me screaming ‘throw me out’. I had read of how the original dry cleaning was created by accident when someone spilt turps onto a stain… well I had turps didn’t I and the shirt was going to be thrown out so if it was damaged in experiment then so what… on went the turps with the usual detergent and scrubbed with a toothbrush. As I said I was desperate and the stain was bad. I washed it out with boiling water and then air dried it. Of course the smell was still there so I threw it into a normal clothes wash load and made sure I used a vinegar rinse.
The shirt is as new. No yellow build up, no white marks, no stiff thick ingrained build up and no smell. I have added a teaspoon of turps to my litre of homemade stain remover and have used it on other shirts…stains gone, no smell.
At this point I would like it noted I AIR DRIED the items and did not use a drier… I would think using a drier would be dangerous with this method of stain removal.
Now my only problem is that Hubby has too many work shirts because I was fazing them out as the build-up got too bad. He will not need a new shirt until he dies.
Contributed by Linda Stapleton, 7th December 2017
Work shirt underarm stains…This has been a major issue for me. Hubby has badly stained shirts and the build-up of antiperspirant in the material meant I have had to get rid of too many shirts. Over time the cost has been terrible.
I have tried everything and when I say everything, I mean I have spent years trying it all. I even resorted to CLR. Finally I simply had had enough. Once again a shirt sat in front of me screaming ‘throw me out’. I had read of how the original dry cleaning was created by accident when someone spilt turps onto a stain… well I had turps didn’t I and the shirt was going to be thrown out so if it was damaged in experiment then so what… on went the turps with the usual detergent and scrubbed with a toothbrush. As I said I was desperate and the stain was bad. I washed it out with boiling water and then air dried it. Of course the smell was still there so I threw it into a normal clothes wash load and made sure I used a vinegar rinse.
The shirt is as new. No yellow build up, no white marks, no stiff thick ingrained build up and no smell. I have added a teaspoon of turps to my litre of homemade stain remover and have used it on other shirts…stains gone, no smell.
At this point I would like it noted I AIR DRIED the items and did not use a drier… I would think using a drier would be dangerous with this method of stain removal.
Now my only problem is that Hubby has too many work shirts because I was fazing them out as the build-up got too bad. He will not need a new shirt until he dies.
Contributed by Linda Stapleton, 7th December 2017
Crystal Rock - the Million Dollar Solution
When your kid is going through what could be an embarrassing lifetime problem, I only have one million dollar Cheapskates solution called Crystal Rock. I suffer from excessive sweats my whole life and it can be debilitating, especially the strong smell !! My shoes were the worst as my feet were trapped all day long in sweaty socks. I discovered Crystal Rock by pure luck when I worked for a direct sales company and one of their bestsellers was this rock. They come in many brands: most important criteria is no Aluminium Chlorohydrate (made with natural mineral salts) and fragrance free. Just use a spray bottle to moisten clean skin: armpits or feet or any other sweat prone area, then apply rock like you would a roll-on. They also sell roll-on and spray bottle versions but the rock is the best value for money. Just be aware it can shatter easily if dropped on floor. Perhaps start your kid with a roll-on or spray bottle first. Coles used to or still sell “Crystal Body Deodorant Stick 120g” which says lasts a year for about $7. Woolies sell a different brand. Melissa and others with this problem trust me when I say this product in most any brand saved my LIFE from a lifelong curse of smelly body odour. I use from the top of my head) to smell nice. it every day and because it’s fragrance free, I still get to use deodorant sprays (at a distance
Contributed by Li Ying Hong, 25th November 2017
When your kid is going through what could be an embarrassing lifetime problem, I only have one million dollar Cheapskates solution called Crystal Rock. I suffer from excessive sweats my whole life and it can be debilitating, especially the strong smell !! My shoes were the worst as my feet were trapped all day long in sweaty socks. I discovered Crystal Rock by pure luck when I worked for a direct sales company and one of their bestsellers was this rock. They come in many brands: most important criteria is no Aluminium Chlorohydrate (made with natural mineral salts) and fragrance free. Just use a spray bottle to moisten clean skin: armpits or feet or any other sweat prone area, then apply rock like you would a roll-on. They also sell roll-on and spray bottle versions but the rock is the best value for money. Just be aware it can shatter easily if dropped on floor. Perhaps start your kid with a roll-on or spray bottle first. Coles used to or still sell “Crystal Body Deodorant Stick 120g” which says lasts a year for about $7. Woolies sell a different brand. Melissa and others with this problem trust me when I say this product in most any brand saved my LIFE from a lifelong curse of smelly body odour. I use from the top of my head) to smell nice. it every day and because it’s fragrance free, I still get to use deodorant sprays (at a distance
Contributed by Li Ying Hong, 25th November 2017
Two Step Stain Solution
Turn polo shirts inside out, squirt armpits with dishwashing liquid rub well, then make a paste using Napisan or equivalent (I use the Aldi brand) and water apply on top of dish liquid and rub well. Wash as usual; shirts should come out stain free and odour free. It helps to dry in direct sunlight. I hope this helps, it works for me every time.
Contributed by Despina Hatzis, 23rd November 2017
Turn polo shirts inside out, squirt armpits with dishwashing liquid rub well, then make a paste using Napisan or equivalent (I use the Aldi brand) and water apply on top of dish liquid and rub well. Wash as usual; shirts should come out stain free and odour free. It helps to dry in direct sunlight. I hope this helps, it works for me every time.
Contributed by Despina Hatzis, 23rd November 2017
Use Rubbing Alcohol on Underarm Stains
To shift stubborn stains and underarm odour in shirts, rub Isocol (isopropyl rubbing alcohol, available at any pharmacy) into the area until quite wet, sit for half hour and wash as usual.
Contributed by Cheryl Hughes
To shift stubborn stains and underarm odour in shirts, rub Isocol (isopropyl rubbing alcohol, available at any pharmacy) into the area until quite wet, sit for half hour and wash as usual.
Contributed by Cheryl Hughes
Bicarb Soda Paste Lifts Odours
You could try making a paste with biccarb soda and water, then leave for a while, then wash as normal. I used to do this for my daughter’s school shirts.
Contributed by Allison Morphett, 23rd November 2017
You could try making a paste with biccarb soda and water, then leave for a while, then wash as normal. I used to do this for my daughter’s school shirts.
Contributed by Allison Morphett, 23rd November 2017
Cheap Aspirin Lifts Stains and Odoours
Pop an aspirin tablet inside the shirts, under each arm, before you put them in the machine. Just use the cheapest aspirin from the supermarket. (I think I learnt this from the Cheapskates Club!)
Contributed by Ruth K, 23rd November 2017
Pop an aspirin tablet inside the shirts, under each arm, before you put them in the machine. Just use the cheapest aspirin from the supermarket. (I think I learnt this from the Cheapskates Club!)
Contributed by Ruth K, 23rd November 2017
Three Steps to Deal with Underarm Stains
1.Ask your teen to scrub their pits with a loofah or shower exfoliating mitt to make sure they are getting rid of yesterday's deodorant film. If they have hairy pits this step is non-negotiable. Then (and here is the trick!) use a bit of Isocol or alcohol based hand sanitiser first, before deodorant- a half teaspoon rubbed between the hands and then rubbed onto each pit will help stop the bacteria making "the stank" in the first place. In winter you likely won't need deodorant at all, in summer deodorant on top. Given we are learning more and more how many perfumes are endocrine disruptors its important to consider limiting the use of roll on and spray deodorants. My family has been using this method for years, saving cash and future us will celebrate our continued autoimmune system's health.
2. White vinegar on the armpit of the offending garment (apply it in at least a 15cm diameter circle on each pit). Leave to soak for at least twenty minutes. Cool wash. Hang in sun. Voila! No smell when dry, and no smell when worn and warmed up!
3. If the garment is truly woeful, a paste of borax and bicarb applied directly to the stain, then scrubbed out with neat Dawn dishwashing liquid, then thrown in a normal cold wash with MOO laundry powder will get rid of the most pungent of smells (cat pee included) and lift the dankest yellow arm pit stains.
Husband is a tradie who works next to a paint oven, if these steps conquered his "musk" they'll surely conquer your teens' :)
Contributed by Sandra Darling, 28th November 2017
1.Ask your teen to scrub their pits with a loofah or shower exfoliating mitt to make sure they are getting rid of yesterday's deodorant film. If they have hairy pits this step is non-negotiable. Then (and here is the trick!) use a bit of Isocol or alcohol based hand sanitiser first, before deodorant- a half teaspoon rubbed between the hands and then rubbed onto each pit will help stop the bacteria making "the stank" in the first place. In winter you likely won't need deodorant at all, in summer deodorant on top. Given we are learning more and more how many perfumes are endocrine disruptors its important to consider limiting the use of roll on and spray deodorants. My family has been using this method for years, saving cash and future us will celebrate our continued autoimmune system's health.
2. White vinegar on the armpit of the offending garment (apply it in at least a 15cm diameter circle on each pit). Leave to soak for at least twenty minutes. Cool wash. Hang in sun. Voila! No smell when dry, and no smell when worn and warmed up!
3. If the garment is truly woeful, a paste of borax and bicarb applied directly to the stain, then scrubbed out with neat Dawn dishwashing liquid, then thrown in a normal cold wash with MOO laundry powder will get rid of the most pungent of smells (cat pee included) and lift the dankest yellow arm pit stains.
Husband is a tradie who works next to a paint oven, if these steps conquered his "musk" they'll surely conquer your teens' :)
Contributed by Sandra Darling, 28th November 2017
Miracle Spray is the Solution for Underarm Stains
I have a problem with staining and odour in the underarm area of my husband’s shirts. I find spraying the underarm area with miracle spray (soaking) and then leaving it for about 5 minutes before washing the garment really works well.
Contributed by Felicity Eleuteri, 26th November 2017
I have a problem with staining and odour in the underarm area of my husband’s shirts. I find spraying the underarm area with miracle spray (soaking) and then leaving it for about 5 minutes before washing the garment really works well.
Contributed by Felicity Eleuteri, 26th November 2017
Soak with Paracetamol for Odour Relief
With 3 teenage boys with white polo shirts, there was a problem with underarm stains and a lingering odour. Buy the cheap home brand paracetamol tablets, crush four and soak tops in warm water for an hour, pop into washing machine and add the soaking water too with the rest of your load. Yes, it works; I have been doing this for the last year.
Contributed by Jo Miokovic, 25th November 2017
With 3 teenage boys with white polo shirts, there was a problem with underarm stains and a lingering odour. Buy the cheap home brand paracetamol tablets, crush four and soak tops in warm water for an hour, pop into washing machine and add the soaking water too with the rest of your load. Yes, it works; I have been doing this for the last year.
Contributed by Jo Miokovic, 25th November 2017
Give Underarm Stains the Dishwashing Treatment
I the problem of underarm stains and lingering odour on shirts when I was caring for a grand - teenager. I simply took his t-shirts out of the washing basket the night before and spread the underarms with washing up detergent, (just using the nozzle on the washing up detergent bottle) then left them overnight in the basket. The next morning I put them in the wash with all the other washing and no more smells.
Contributed by Robyn MacKellar, 25th November 2017
I the problem of underarm stains and lingering odour on shirts when I was caring for a grand - teenager. I simply took his t-shirts out of the washing basket the night before and spread the underarms with washing up detergent, (just using the nozzle on the washing up detergent bottle) then left them overnight in the basket. The next morning I put them in the wash with all the other washing and no more smells.
Contributed by Robyn MacKellar, 25th November 2017
Vinegar Works Like Magic
I keep a spray bottle with vinegar in the laundry, a quick spray on the armpit area of the top, give it a wash and the odour disappears. Works like magic killing the bacteria that causes the smell.
Contributed by Kylie Edwards, 23rd November 2017
I keep a spray bottle with vinegar in the laundry, a quick spray on the armpit area of the top, give it a wash and the odour disappears. Works like magic killing the bacteria that causes the smell.
Contributed by Kylie Edwards, 23rd November 2017
Prevention
Mitchum cream or gel deodorant last 24 hours is fantastic even on hairy teenage boy pits. I only by on special and stock up. It works best applied the night before so he/she can shower and not reapply in morning. No deodorant on clothes and no stink perfect.
Washing soda is great for BO for the rest of the stinky sweaty clothes especially rowing and basketball uniforms. Make sure you dissolve it in warm water before adding to wash, otherwise can have powder problems
Great for soaking white cotton in hot water too then wash.
Cheers
Contributed by Melanie Proper, 23rd November 2017
Mitchum cream or gel deodorant last 24 hours is fantastic even on hairy teenage boy pits. I only by on special and stock up. It works best applied the night before so he/she can shower and not reapply in morning. No deodorant on clothes and no stink perfect.
Washing soda is great for BO for the rest of the stinky sweaty clothes especially rowing and basketball uniforms. Make sure you dissolve it in warm water before adding to wash, otherwise can have powder problems
Great for soaking white cotton in hot water too then wash.
Cheers
Contributed by Melanie Proper, 23rd November 2017
Odour Destroying Pre-wash Spray
Mix up a spray bottle of white vinegar and an essential oil that the child will tolerate e.g. tea-tree or eucalyptus, something that kills bacteria. For a girl, I think lavender would also work. Spray the armpit area and leave on for a while before washing, either that or add it to your rinse water. Smell comes from bacteria so using the two together (vinegar and essential oil, both anti-bacterial substances) should get the smell out.
Contributed by Robyn Thomas, 23rd November 2017
Mix up a spray bottle of white vinegar and an essential oil that the child will tolerate e.g. tea-tree or eucalyptus, something that kills bacteria. For a girl, I think lavender would also work. Spray the armpit area and leave on for a while before washing, either that or add it to your rinse water. Smell comes from bacteria so using the two together (vinegar and essential oil, both anti-bacterial substances) should get the smell out.
Contributed by Robyn Thomas, 23rd November 2017
Kill the Bacteria, Kill the Odour
I use white vinegar in the fabric softener department of the washing machine. I also rub it into the smelly area, kills the smell. Use vinegar in all washes, it makes clothes softer.
Contributed by Darryllyn McRae, 23rd November 2017
I use white vinegar in the fabric softener department of the washing machine. I also rub it into the smelly area, kills the smell. Use vinegar in all washes, it makes clothes softer.
Contributed by Darryllyn McRae, 23rd November 2017
Take the Headache Out of Smelly Armpits
Don't know how or why this works but it does whether for smelly armpits, stinky socks or the dog's towels. Crush 2 aspirins to a fine powder (70 cents generic brand for supermarket is fine) and add to your normal washing machine load together with your usual detergent.
Contributed by Carol Woolcock, 23rd November 2017
Don't know how or why this works but it does whether for smelly armpits, stinky socks or the dog's towels. Crush 2 aspirins to a fine powder (70 cents generic brand for supermarket is fine) and add to your normal washing machine load together with your usual detergent.
Contributed by Carol Woolcock, 23rd November 2017
Give Stains an Old Fashioned Soap Scrub
Rub armpits area of shirts with soap , and warm water, allow to sit for an hour or so, put in washing machine with normal detergent plus half cup of bi carb soda . Add a cup of white vinegar to final rinse , should work a treat!
Contributed by Michele Hall, 23rd November 2017
Rub armpits area of shirts with soap , and warm water, allow to sit for an hour or so, put in washing machine with normal detergent plus half cup of bi carb soda . Add a cup of white vinegar to final rinse , should work a treat!
Contributed by Michele Hall, 23rd November 2017
Simple MOO to Lose Ink Stains
I use whole milk to remove ink stains. Works a treat. For a large spill, I place a pie dish under the stained spot. Pour the milk into the pie dish and rub fingers up and down stain to wet the fibres. Leave to soak. Return in 15 - 30 minutes check if more milk and soaking time needed, if it does repeat first step. If not, wash as per usual. This has worked every time for me and I am terrible at spilling ink on me or writing all over myself.
Contributed by Pat
I use whole milk to remove ink stains. Works a treat. For a large spill, I place a pie dish under the stained spot. Pour the milk into the pie dish and rub fingers up and down stain to wet the fibres. Leave to soak. Return in 15 - 30 minutes check if more milk and soaking time needed, if it does repeat first step. If not, wash as per usual. This has worked every time for me and I am terrible at spilling ink on me or writing all over myself.
Contributed by Pat
MOO Oxygen Bleach/Oxyclean
Ingredients:
1 cup Water
½ cup Peroxide
½ cup bicarbonate soda
Instructions:
1. Combine in container.
2. Let sit 20 minutes before using.
Use in your wash or for soaking stained items or for general cleaning! This is really good for stained grout among many other uses.
Contributed by Heather Schlusemeyer
Ingredients:
1 cup Water
½ cup Peroxide
½ cup bicarbonate soda
Instructions:
1. Combine in container.
2. Let sit 20 minutes before using.
Use in your wash or for soaking stained items or for general cleaning! This is really good for stained grout among many other uses.
Contributed by Heather Schlusemeyer
Cheapskates Stain Removing Soap
You will need:
4 bars of soap*
4 tbsp (60ml) Eucalyptus oil
1 cup methylated spirits
1 cup boiling water
A stainless steel or enamel bowl
A saucepan big enough to sit the bowl over, like a double boiler
An old metal whisk
Soap moulds - I use empty egg cartons, silicone cake moulds work well
Step 1. To get started, fill the saucepan with water and bring to the boil. While you are waiting for the water to boil grate the soap, using the zester side of your grater. You do this so the soap will dissolve faster. You can just cut it into chunks, but you'll be standing stirring forever, waiting for it to dissolve.
Step 2. When all the soap is grated into a fine powder, add everything to the bowl and whisk together. The mixture will be cloudy.
Step 3. Turn the exhaust fan on and place the bowl over the pot of boiling water and start stirring with the whisk. I prefer to use the whisk because it helps the soap to dissolve completely. The smell will be very strong, which is why I like to have the exhaust fan on.
Step 4. Stir until the mixture becomes transparent and thickens. It will look like a thick custard or sauce. Remove from the heat and pour into the moulds.
I use an egg carton because the little half egg shaped bars of soap are just the right size and shape to fit into the palm of my hand when I'm using it.
Step 5. Set aside to set and cure. It will need to dry for at least four weeks to harden enough to last when you use it. The longer you let it cure the harder it will be and the longer it will last. When you want to use a bar of your stain-removing soap just tear off a segment of egg carton and pop the soap out.
*You can use any type of soap. It's a great way to use up all those scraps of bathroom soap no-one will use. If you use scraps you'll need approximately 5 cups of scraps. Laundry soap is cheap and perfect for re-making into this stain-removing soap if you prefer to use cakes of soap.
Contributed by Cath Armstrong
You will need:
4 bars of soap*
4 tbsp (60ml) Eucalyptus oil
1 cup methylated spirits
1 cup boiling water
A stainless steel or enamel bowl
A saucepan big enough to sit the bowl over, like a double boiler
An old metal whisk
Soap moulds - I use empty egg cartons, silicone cake moulds work well
Step 1. To get started, fill the saucepan with water and bring to the boil. While you are waiting for the water to boil grate the soap, using the zester side of your grater. You do this so the soap will dissolve faster. You can just cut it into chunks, but you'll be standing stirring forever, waiting for it to dissolve.
Step 2. When all the soap is grated into a fine powder, add everything to the bowl and whisk together. The mixture will be cloudy.
Step 3. Turn the exhaust fan on and place the bowl over the pot of boiling water and start stirring with the whisk. I prefer to use the whisk because it helps the soap to dissolve completely. The smell will be very strong, which is why I like to have the exhaust fan on.
Step 4. Stir until the mixture becomes transparent and thickens. It will look like a thick custard or sauce. Remove from the heat and pour into the moulds.
I use an egg carton because the little half egg shaped bars of soap are just the right size and shape to fit into the palm of my hand when I'm using it.
Step 5. Set aside to set and cure. It will need to dry for at least four weeks to harden enough to last when you use it. The longer you let it cure the harder it will be and the longer it will last. When you want to use a bar of your stain-removing soap just tear off a segment of egg carton and pop the soap out.
*You can use any type of soap. It's a great way to use up all those scraps of bathroom soap no-one will use. If you use scraps you'll need approximately 5 cups of scraps. Laundry soap is cheap and perfect for re-making into this stain-removing soap if you prefer to use cakes of soap.
Contributed by Cath Armstrong
Sentry Page Protection
How to Freshen Stale Clothes
Add 4 or 5 drops of Lavender oil to the water along with the Cheapskates Washing Powder before adding the cloths then wash as normal. If the smell is really strong you may need to wash them as second time. While I haven't tried this on moth balls I was able to remove the strong smell of cigarette smoke from clothes from an elderly relative before I gave them to charity.
Contributed by Alison Thorpe, 24th December 2015
Contributed by Alison Thorpe, 24th December 2015
Stop the Wash Day Fade
Even though most clothes and manchester are marked as "colour fast" these days they all tend to fade, especially the stronger colours like the reds, navy blues and darker greens. This was especially distressing for me as I spent a lot of money (more than I normally would) buying new towel sets for our bathroom and I noticed that the lovely fuchsia colour was starting to fade after just a couple of washes - my beautiful towels were being washed away! My Mother gave me a tip to stop the colour fade and it works. Not only that I didn't need to buy anything special and I was able to fix the colour fade in just a day. To set colours in new clothes soak them in cold water and ordinary table salt. I use about two cups of plain table salt to a bucket of cold water. Soak for about three hours. This will “set” the colours and helps clothes not fade. Always wash colours in the cold water, with the bare minimum of detergent and for the shortest wash cycle you can. Water and detergent can leech out colour and send it down the drain. For our towels I don't use detergent at all unless they are particularly grubby or someone has been ill - most of the time they just need to be freshened up as they are not actually "dirty". My lovely new towels have kept their colour now for almost a year and still look fantastic. I wish I'd known to do this when they were brand new and kept the original colour.
Solar Bleaching for Whiter Whites
If you have white plastic cutlery/utensils/bowls that are stained from using spaghetti sauces and other tomato based foods, try washing them as normal and leaving them out in the full sun for a day for the sun to bleach away the stained discolouring. The sun acts as a natural bleaching agent and will rid your utensils or bowls of the stains as if they were brand new. This has also worked on stained white laundry buckets as well. Sometimes rubbery spatulas are a bit more stubborn and may require extra time to bleach but harder plastic products will be stain free within hours much to the amazement of your eyes when you collect them looking like they did when you bought them in the shop. No need to replace - just let the sun work it's magic!!
Contributed by Michelle Jones, 30th November 2011
Contributed by Michelle Jones, 30th November 2011
$2 Shop Degreaser Cleans Mechanic's Clothes
Approximate $ Savings: $50- $100 per year
My husband is a mechanic and often comes home with his clothes covered in grease and oil. I was spending a fortune on expensive stain removers because oil is very difficult to get out. Then he suggested I try a can of "car degreaser" from the $2 shop as he said that it works a treat on the driveway when he spills oil. I tried it and it's FANTASTIC. The grease and oil is instantly removed and washes away on a normal cycle. The can of degreaser lasts at least 6 months and it only costs $2! Contributed by Sarah, Mayfield West, 30th April 2009
My husband is a mechanic and often comes home with his clothes covered in grease and oil. I was spending a fortune on expensive stain removers because oil is very difficult to get out. Then he suggested I try a can of "car degreaser" from the $2 shop as he said that it works a treat on the driveway when he spills oil. I tried it and it's FANTASTIC. The grease and oil is instantly removed and washes away on a normal cycle. The can of degreaser lasts at least 6 months and it only costs $2! Contributed by Sarah, Mayfield West, 30th April 2009
An Easy Way to Sort and Treat Stained Laundry
Approximate $ Savings: $2.00 per week
Stains on clothes are much easier to remove if you find them before you wash, so hang a bag in the laundry for clothes with stains. The stain can be treated at once and not found after washing and drying. Even small children can recognise a stain and put their dirty items in the special bag. This saves double washing and allows stain treatment before it sets. Ordinary dish detergent is great for removing grease stains and some diluted in a spray bottle will make pre-treating easier.
Contributed by Jena, Mt. Annan, 22nd January 2010
Stains on clothes are much easier to remove if you find them before you wash, so hang a bag in the laundry for clothes with stains. The stain can be treated at once and not found after washing and drying. Even small children can recognise a stain and put their dirty items in the special bag. This saves double washing and allows stain treatment before it sets. Ordinary dish detergent is great for removing grease stains and some diluted in a spray bottle will make pre-treating easier.
Contributed by Jena, Mt. Annan, 22nd January 2010
A Remedy for Mould on Clothes
I was about to throw away clothes that have mould on them till I tried a spray of Ajax Professional Mould Remover on the mould, and yes it worked on clothes both coloured or white. I spray it on the mould then put it in the wash and wash as normal. I am so glad I tried the spray, I haven't had to waste money throwing out clothes and buying replacements.
Contributed by Teressa, Bruce Rock, 25th April 2010
Contributed by Teressa, Bruce Rock, 25th April 2010
Make a Bicarb Paste....
To get rid of odour from smelly armpits on clothes I use a mixture of bicarb soda and water. I make it into a paste and spread it over the area and leave for a few hours. Rinse off and put into the wash and the smell has gone.
Contributed by Linda, Samson, 20th April 2010
Contributed by Linda, Samson, 20th April 2010
Soak and Dry in the Sun
Try soaking smelly clothes in a bucket with some Napisan for a few hours or overnight. Put the clothes in washing machine give them a good rinse, (no need to wash clothes) spin dry and hang outside to dry in sunlight .
Contributed by Wendy, Fairfield, 16th April 2010
Contributed by Wendy, Fairfield, 16th April 2010
Wet, Soak and Wash
I had a problem with my hubby's work shirts retaining an odour, even after washing- there's a bit of a build up in the pit area. Wet the pit area with vinegar; wash as normal then soak in a nappy wash; wash as normal. You may need to do this routine a few times.
Contributed by Bindii B., 15th April 2010
Contributed by Bindii B., 15th April 2010
Soak the Odour Awayd
When we had shirts that smelt under the arm pits we used Aspirin diluted in water to soak the underarm areas. No more odour and nice clean shirts.
Contributed by Shelia, Tweed Heads West, 15th April 2010
Contributed by Shelia, Tweed Heads West, 15th April 2010
From Fridge to Washing Machine
Just as bicarb works in your fridge to eliminate odours so it will work in your laundry. Make a paste and then rub it directly onto the fabric, let sit for 24 hours, rubbing occasionally, adding a bit more water if it dries out. Then wash normally, the bicarb will dissolve in the wash water, and your clothes will come out clean and smelling fresh.
Contributed by Gillian Vance, 15th April 2010
Contributed by Gillian Vance, 15th April 2010
Peroxide Cleans Up Odours
I have the perfect solution to the problem of smelly armpits in clean clothes, having a pre-teen son whose school shirts were developing an odour. The answer is a cheap bottle of 3% peroxide from the chemist, around $2-3 dollars. Damp under the armpits then I just dab a little of the peroxide on straight from the bottle, let sit for an hour or so. Wash as normal. The smell is gone!!! and your clothes are not bleached. I use this on all his shirts now with no problems.
Contributed by Melissa Southeren, 15th April 2010
Contributed by Melissa Southeren, 15th April 2010
How to treat a dried stain
Dried-on stains are generally harder to remove than if they were treated while still fresh so it pays to treat stains fast if at all possible. When it's not, and the stain has dried, you still have a chance of removing it if you follow this method. 1.With a damp sponge and working from the outer edge to the centre, wet the stain. 2.Make a stiff paste of bicarb soda and water. 3.With your fingertips gently rub the bicarb paste into the stain. Leave ten minutes. Don't allow the bicarb to dry on the stain. 4.Rinse completely under cool water. Wash as usual.
Spot Clean Mildew
To clean mildew and mould spots off clothing use bicarb soda, white vinegar and toothbrush. Mix the bicarb and vinegar into a paste and gently apply with toothbrush. Try this a few times. Good luck! Contributed by Wendy, Oakleigh South, 26th October 2009
Bleach Spots on Black Knit Tops?
I don't use bleach, and still get bleach spots on my black tops. i wear those a lot for work...so...take your black felt tip permanent marker and fill in the white. it does wash out, butI keep it handy in the car..paint and drive anyone?
Contributed by Virginia, Illinois, 7th October 2009
Contributed by Virginia, Illinois, 7th October 2009
Deodorising with Asprin
Approximate $ Savings: $10 - $15 on dry-cleaning
My husband is a mechanic and his clothes get very sweaty and very smelly. After countless bars of stain soap and sprays, not to mention trying numerous brands of detergents I finally found an easy cheap way to get rid of the sweaty, smelly and time consuming stains, not only from his work overalls, but in kids t-shirts, ladies blouses and anywhere stained by sweat. Simply drop in half a bucket of cool water 3 or 4 aspirin tablets, add the clothes and leave for 2 hours to soak, problem solved. The aspirin tablets can be bought really cheaply, just purchase a home brand from your local supermarket.
Contributed by Heather, Gold Coast, 30th July 2009
My husband is a mechanic and his clothes get very sweaty and very smelly. After countless bars of stain soap and sprays, not to mention trying numerous brands of detergents I finally found an easy cheap way to get rid of the sweaty, smelly and time consuming stains, not only from his work overalls, but in kids t-shirts, ladies blouses and anywhere stained by sweat. Simply drop in half a bucket of cool water 3 or 4 aspirin tablets, add the clothes and leave for 2 hours to soak, problem solved. The aspirin tablets can be bought really cheaply, just purchase a home brand from your local supermarket.
Contributed by Heather, Gold Coast, 30th July 2009
Brown Paper Absorbs Melted Wax
A tip I find helpful when ironing wax is to place brown paper under the towel and this way the wax goes into the brown paper and doesn't ruin the towel. Hope this is of some help.
Contributed by Megan Hall, 24th July 2009
Contributed by Megan Hall, 24th July 2009
Lose the Tomato Stains
To remove tomato stains from clothes, first rub in neat dishwashing liquid before putting the garment into a bucket to soak. I use dishwashing liquid as a pre stain treatment and it works like a dream and it's cheap!
Contributed by Janine Benson, 18th March 2009
Contributed by Janine Benson, 18th March 2009
Eucalyptus Pre Wash
I make my own pre wash using 1 cap of 100% Eucalyptus Oil and water - I use the cap off the 100ml bottle of oil which I put into a 500ml spray bottle and fill with water. Unsure of the savings because the Eucalyptus seems to last for quite a while (it is some time since I had to buy it!)and it is available from the supermarket.
Contributed by Robyn, Wangaratta, 24th September 2008
Contributed by Robyn, Wangaratta, 24th September 2008
Cleaning Up Blood Stains
No need to buy stain remover. For blood dissolve a tablespoon or more of salt and COLD water in a bucket and soak the stained item overnight.
Contributed by Elysia, Brighton, 20th May 2008
Contributed by Elysia, Brighton, 20th May 2008
Get Some Gumption and Fight Stains
When children and husbands get stains on their clothes (as they do) place a small amount of household gumption (any brand, I use the cheap no frills from Coles) on the stain and place the item straight in a normal wash. Everything will come out with gumption including blood, grease, paint etc Contributed by Andrea, Westbrook, 4th January 2008
Clean Up Curry Stains
If you get a splotch of curry on a white shirt dab a little Oxy5 or Oxy10 (active ingredient is Benzoyl Peroxide) which is a mild bleaching agent. When put in ordinary wash stains come out.
Contributed by Valerie, View Bank, 15th December 2007
Contributed by Valerie, View Bank, 15th December 2007
Soda Water Stain Remover
Use soda water for stain removal instead of any of the expensive laundry products on the shelf! This will save you not only money trying to find the one that works best, but also time in finding that perfect result!!
Contributed by Donna, Melbourne, 2nd June 2005
Contributed by Donna, Melbourne, 2nd June 2005
Washing Red Dust from Clothing
If the stains are on clothing and soft furnishings, DO NOT use conditioner when washing them...they contain petroleum and such like and actually lock in stains. After living for several years in the Pilbara surrounded by red dirt I seemed to be continually throwing out clothing etc until given this advice. In regards to walls, concrete etc hire a high pressure water cleaner, they generally do the trick. Contributed by Ruth, College Grove, October 24th 2006
Cleaning Paint From Clothes
What you use to remove old paint really depends on the type of paint. You can use turpentine, methylated spirits or acetone. Try a drop of each on the stain to see which one will shift it. Then use a clean cloth and dab the stain, working from the outside edge to the centre (so it doesn't spread) until all the old pain is gone. Wash the item as you normally would.
Contributed by Kaylene, North Ringwood, October 12th 2006
Contributed by Kaylene, North Ringwood, October 12th 2006
Clean up a Red Wine Stain
I have a white tablecloth that red wine was spilt on. The tablecloth was put in the wash hamper and left for five days, I thought that the stain would never come out. I decided to pour cloudy ammonia on the stain and it went black. I put the tablecloth in the wash and the stain was removed!
Contributed by Michelle, September 10th 2006
Contributed by Michelle, September 10th 2006
Sports Stains
It's almost winter and with the cold, wet weather comes winter sports and all the inground dirt on sports clothes. To get rid of those stains rinse off loose dirt, then rub the stain with a bar of laundry soap. Then wash normally. If the stain is persistent, soak it overnight in warm, soapy water and give it a gently rub before putting it into the washing machine.
Even Cheaper Stain Remover
I found Bi-Lo brand pre-wash stain remover spray very, very cheap and just as effective, and less than half the price of Preen. It takes out just about every stain my kids throw in the wash and is really, really cheap.
Contributed by Joanne, Vermont
Contributed by Joanne, Vermont
Removing Grass Stains
Grass stains can be removed from clothing if you don't set the stain by applying heat to it - like putting it in the dryer or letting the sun bake it in. The sooner you attend to it, the better the results will be. There are several ways to work on the stain. You may be able to remove it just rubbing it with a bar of soap. If that doesn't work, try soaking the garment in liquid laundry detergent or a pre-wash stain remover solution. Finally, apply spot remover and run through the washer. If you see progress, do more soaking and rubbing.
Blood Stains
our peroxide on before washing.
Baby Spit-up on Your Shirt
Try putting dry bi-car soda on a damp cloth and rub on the spot. Eliminates the odour.
Defeat Collar Ring
Use shampoo on collar and cuff rings. Shampoo is meant to clean body oil, which is what that ring is. The cheapest shampoo you can find works just fine.
Pre-Soaking
Pre-soaking can also save on detergent and the clothes won't need to be scrubbed. If your washing machine has a pre-soak cycle, use it to save money, time and energy. Put your load in on the pre-soak cycle the night before, and then when you get up, just click the dial around to the wash cycle.
Eliminate Pre-treatments
If you add 1/2 cup bicarbonate soda to your wash and 3/4 cup white vinegar to your rinse, you'll be able to almost completely eliminate the use of pre-treatments like Preen etc. I've never come across ANYTHING that was ever harmed by this baking soda/vinegar treatment, it doesn't make your clothes smell like vinegar, and it also often gets rid of colors that have bled onto other clothes. I don't have to worry about separating colours and whites when I use this treatment---it gets it all clean. In fact, it seems to get all the clothes a lot cleaner for a lot less.