How to remove every type of stain
28th Oct 2025
Whether it’s a splash of spaghetti sauce, a rogue coffee spill, or a mystery stain from the dog (or kids… or both!), stains are just a part of life. But with a little know-how — and the right tools — you can make even the worst messes disappear.
We’ve created this ultimate stain removal guide to show you exactly how to tackle every kind of stain, from red wine to yellow stains, and everything in between. We’re also giving you a sneak peek at our powerful new Canningvale Stain Remover, which has been tested on real-life messes, and absolutely delivers.
Stain Removal 101: Know Your Stain Type
Before you run straight to the washing machine, it’s worth knowing what type of stain you’re dealing with. Different stains need different treatments — and using the wrong method can actually make the stain worse.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet
The Ultimate Stain Removal Guide
Here’s how to tackle every common stain with a mix of household ingredients and our soon-to-launch stain-removing superstar.
Protein Stain (blood, dairy, sweat, etc)
Best for: sheets, towels, pillowcases
Fresh stains
Use: Cold water + Canningvale Signature Laundry Detergent
• Blot (don’t rub) the stain with a clean cloth.
• Dab on a little liquid detergent and lightly rub it in with your fingers.
• Rinse in cold water — never hot!
• Wash on a cold cycle with regular detergent (we love our Canningvale Signature Laundry Concentrate.)
Set-in / old stains
Use: Warm water + Canningvale Stain Remover
• Pre-treat with Canningvale Stain Remover: dissolve ½ lid (30g) in 7L of warm water and soak for at least 2 hours, overnight for tougher marks.
• For whites, you can also create a paste (1 tsp powder + 3 tsp warm water) and apply directly to the stain for up to 5 minutes before rinsing.
• Wash on a cold cycle with regular detergent — we love pairing it with our Canningvale Signature Laundry Concentrate.
• For an extra boost, add ½ lid (30g) dissolved in warm water directly into your wash
Our Picks
Tannin Stains (coffee & tea)
Best for: table linen, napkins, white towels
Use: Vinegar + baking soda OR soak with stain remover
• Blot fresh stain with cold water
• Sprinkle baking soda, spray with vinegar — let fizz
• Blot again
• For set stains, soak in warm water + stain remover for 2-4 hours
• Wash as normal
→ Need to upgrade your napkins? Shop Table Linen
Our Picks
Pigment Stains (wine, juice, berries, etc)
Best for: white linen bedding, napkins, throws
Use: Salt + stain remover soak
• Blot excess wine (or berries, etc)
• Cover with table salt to absorb pigment
• Rinse with cold water
• Soak in warm water with stain remover for 2+ hours
• Wash on warm cycle
Our Picks
Oil-Based Stains (makeup, butter, salad dressing, etc)
Best for: face washers, pillowcases, robes
Use: Dish soap OR stain remover paste
• Dab with dish soap and warm water to lift oils
• Apply stain remover paste and leave for 5 minutes
• Wash with warm water and detergent
→ Pro tip: Shop darker towels for your beauty routine. They’re more forgiving!
Our Picks
Dye Stain (ink, food colouring, etc)
Best for: sheets, napkins
Use: Rubbing alcohol + pre-wash soak
• Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain
• Rinse thoroughly
• Soak in hot water + stain remover for 24 hours (for whites)
• Wash as usual
Our Picks
General Discolouration (greying whites)
Best for: sheets, towels, tea towels
Use: Stain remover as a pre-wash soak
• Dissolve half a lid of stain remover in warm water (about 30 grams)
• Soak whites for 12-24 hours
• Wash with Canningvale’s Signature Laundry Concentrate
Our Picks
Why Our New Stain Remover Works
Early testing of our stain remover has shown serious results — especially on tricky stains, and greying whites.
What makes it different?
• Works on a wide range of natural and synthetic stains
• Can be used as a paste, pre-soak or even as an in-wash booster
• Gentle on fabric
• Actually works on real-life messes
Final Stain Removal Tips
• Act fast. The quicker you treat it, the better your results
• Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing spreads the stain and can damage fabric fibres
• Cold water first for protein stains. Always.
• Always test on a hidden area before going all in
FAQs: Stain Removal Edition
Q: Will your stain remover work on old or set-in stains?
Yes — especially when used as a paste as well as a long pre-soak.
Q: Can I use it on coloured fabrics?
Yes, but we recommend spot testing first, especially on darker shades.
Q: How long should I soak for best results?
For light stains, 1–2 hours. For stubborn stains or brightening whites, soak for up to 24 hours.
Q: Will it help with yellowing or greying whites?
Yes! That’s one of its secret powers. Soak overnight to help your whites look crisp and fresh again.