Stained Clothes

Tannin stains (coffee, tea, wine) come from plants. Treated with mild acid or detergent. Protein stains (blood, sweat, food) come from animals. Treated with enzymatic cleaner. Mixing tannin and protein treatments can set the stain permanently.

Yes, but with care. Silk is protein-based and sensitive to harsh chemicals. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Use gentle detergent or specialized silk cleaner. Avoid bleach (damages silk), hot water (can set stains), and vigorous rubbing.

Depends on stain type. For old tannin stains: oxygen bleach (peroxide) soak. For old protein stains: enzymatic pre-soak. For old oil-based stains: dish soap + baking soda paste. Multiple treatments may be needed.

Cold water is safe for most stains. Hot water can set protein (blood, sweat) and tannin (coffee, tea) stains permanently. For oily stains, hot water with detergent works best. When in doubt, use cold first.

Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is strong, fast-acting, but can damage colors and fibers. Oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) is gentler, color-safe, works on most stains but slower. Both are effective on organic stains.