Parents have the task
of finding products that remove stains and odors without irritating baby's
skin. These tips will help you tackle the task treating common stains on smocked children clothes.
In general, treat
stains while they are fresh, making sure to remove as much of the staining
substance as possible before laundering.
•
For proteins (including formula, breast
milk, spit-up, most food stains, and feces): Soak stains in cool water using a
product containing enzymes. If that doesn't work, try an all-purpose stain
remover and launder normally.
•
For urine: Removing a urine stain
requires a two-step process. Dilute 1 tablespoon of ammonia in 1 cup of water,
and use it to treat the area. Remember to dab the mixture in a small area first
to make sure the garment is colorfast. Use a stain-removal product, such as
Shout, and launder normally.
•
For baby oil: Use a prewash stain
remover. After checking the care instructions, wash in the hottest water that
is safe for the garment.
•
For fruits and vegetables: Three methods
can be effective at removing these stains. Rinse the stain in cool water. Or
place the garment in a 1-to-1 combination of rubbing alcohol and water, and
wash normally. The third option is to use a prewash stain remover, followed by
laundering, for more stubborn stains.
•
Warning: Never mix bleach with vinegar
or ammonia. The combination creates toxic fumes that can be hazardous to you
and your family.
