Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[Sebastyn]

I have a dog that is allowed on sofas and chairs. I cover them with (cotton) fabric covers so I can wash them easily and change them. Recently I've found that he leaves big brown stains where he rests his head, I'm thinking they're a combination of his food (kibble) and saliva probably, and no matter how I wash the fabrics, the stains just won't come off. I've even tried bleach with no results. I've googled the whole Internet trying to find an answer and nobody seems to have this issue. :D

[mrscleannw]

Hello Sebastyn, Welcome.

Saliva contains protein so you can clean this as you would a blood stain. If you have washed and dried the covers with the saliva stains multiple times, it may be permanent. The heat from the dryer will cook the stains, causing them to hold fast to the fabric. Same goes for the water temperature you use to wash the covers.

How to Remove the Stain.

Things you’ll need: hydrogen peroxide (3%), 2 clean light colored towels, plastic wrap.
Always remember to test in an inconspicuous spot prior to cleaning.

1. Place a towel under the stained area.
2. Pour some *hydrogen peroxide (household strength 3%) on the stain until saturated.
3. Take some of the plastic wrap and cover the areas you poured hydrogen peroxide.
4. Place the other towel over the plastic wrap to keep the area dark.

Let this sit for 30 minutes and check the progress. Repeat the process if necessary.

*Hydrogen peroxide will turn to water if exposed to light. This is why we cover it so it can work its magic and why it is packaged in a dark bottle.

Denture Cleanser.

Soak the stain in a bowl of cold water with an effervescent denture cleanser tablet for about 15-60 minutes.

If either of these work and the stain is removed or has mostly been removed, pre-treat all stains and wash on a cold water cycle. Do not put in the dryer until you have checked to see if the stains have been removed.