The Science Behind Stain Removal and When to Seek Professional Help
Stains are a part of life. Whether it's a coffee splash on a hectic morning, a red wine spill at dinner, or an ink stain from a leaking pen, we've all experienced that moment of horror when a favorite article of clothing is under siege. But have you ever asked yourself why some stains are more difficult to remove than others? Knowing the science of stain removal can make it easier to deal with those tough marks — and recognize when it's worth getting professionals involved. Why Stains Form and How They Work Stains form when a substance becomes attached to the fibers in your clothing. The type of stain — whether oil-based, protein, or tannin — dictates how hard it is to remove. For example, oily stains from butter or salad dressing are hydrophobic and thus tend to repel water, so they are especially difficult to remove with a simple wash. Protein-based stains such as blood or sweat, conversely, are more likely to become difficult if washed in hot water, since hot water caus...