Climbing into bed with fresh bed sheets is up there with some of the bed feelings – especially after a long day. But if you come across a stain, it can put an end to that ultimate relaxed feeling and soon you’ll be up trying to scrub away the stain. But it’s not always easy.
One way to get rid of the most challenging stains can be removed easily and cheaply. Cleaning experts have now shared a simple yet effective hack that costs just 50p, using items you likely already have at home, to banish those tough marks from your bedding.
Stains from sweat, makeup, and food are common culprits when it comes to blemishing otherwise clean sheets. Whether it’s a late-night snack in bed or the daily wear of makeup and skincare, these stains can persist despite multiple washes. Luckily, this cost-effective solution is here to make your bedding look as good as new.
How to remove sweat stains from bedding?
Sweat stains can be particularly stubborn, especially if they’ve set into the fabric. The trick here is to create a paste using baking soda, which costs approximately 20p, and water. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quarter cup of water to form a thick paste, then apply it directly to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
For an added boost on white sheets, add a splash of white vinegar, priced at around 30p per treatment. This helps to lift the stain and eliminate any lingering odour. Once treated, wash the bedding on a hot cycle with your regular detergent to achieve the best possible results.
How to remove food stains from bedding?
Food stains – especially those greasy ones – can be hard to get out. The best way to tackle these stains is to use washing-up liquid, which can be bought for around 15p per treatment. You can even buy a supermarket’s own for around 50p. Rub the liquid into the stain gently and allow it to work its magic for 15 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
For extra-stubborn stains, try soaking the bedding in a mix of warm water and white vinegar, costing another 35p per session. This solution breaks down the oils in the stain, making it much easier to remove during the wash cycle. Finish by washing the sheets as usual, using the highest heat setting allowed by the fabric care label.
How to remove make-up and fake tan stains from bedding
Fake tan and makeup stains can be very difficult to get rid of, especially if they’re dark or oily. To treat these stains effectively, an oxygen bleach soak is highly recommended. For white bedding, this treatment costs about 40p per use. Soak the stained area in a solution of oxygen bleach and warm water for at least one to two hours to break down the stain.
Clare, a cleaning expert from Bust The Dust, advises: “Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to makeup and fake tan stains. But when they do happen, this affordable trick really does the job without harsh chemicals. It’s all about using the right ingredients at the right time.”
Final tips for spotless bedding
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Always pre-treat stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting.
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Use cold water rinses to avoid locking the stain into the fabric.
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Air-dry your sheets outside in sunlight if possible, as it acts as a natural bleaching agent.
This simple cleaning hack not only keeps your bedding stain-free but also saves you money and reduces the need for chemical-based cleaners.