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University of Illinois Extension
Perspiration

Perspiration

Treat stains as soon as possible after staining. The older the stain, the more difficult it will be to remove.

All stain removal methods should be applied prior to laundering washable garments. Stains that have been laundered and dried are almost impossible to remove.

Washable Fabrics

Steps to Clean

Chemical solvents and supplies

  • Enzyme product
  • Ammonia
  1. Pretreat with enzyme product.
  2. If fabric has discolored, treat fresh stains with ammonia and old stains with vinegar.

Upholstery

What you will need

  • Detergent
  • Ammonia
  • White vinegar
  • Rubbing alcohol

Steps to Clean

  1. Mix one teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of ammonia with two cups of warm water. (Caution: Never mix chlorine bleach and ammonia – fumes are hazardous)
  2. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent/ammonia solution
  3. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the stain disappears or is no longer absorbed into the cloth.
  5. If the stain remains, mix one tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water.
  6. Sponge the stain with the detergent/vinegar solution.
  7. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 until the stain disappears or is no longer absorbed into the cloth.
  9. Sponge the stain with rubbing alcohol.
  10. Blot until the liquid is absorbed.
  11. Sponge with cold water and blot dry