Laundry expert reveals her tips for removing 6 ‘summer stains’ – her fabric trick stops sand sticking to clothes

A LAUNDRY expert has revealed how to keep your clothes spotless after having fun in the sun.

He shared his advice for removing “summer stains,” including grass and sweat.

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Alex Econs is a laundry cleaning specialist and founder of Icon printing – a custom clothing company.

He covered all the types of messes that can occur during summer activities.

Econs included tips on how to remove oily sunscreen stains and even prevent sand from sticking to clothes.

Most of her tips won’t cost much, using materials that many people already have at home.

CLEAN UP YOUR ACT

Putting sunscreen on your clothes may happen in the summer, but those pesky stains can be removed.

“Since sunscreen is usually oil-based, you want to use a solution that can eliminate that greasy layer,” said Econs.

“Dishing detergent is a great, inexpensive choice – but any laundry detergent or stain remover works too.”

Although he admitted that sunscreen stains are a little more stubborn, he said not to worry.

“For these stubborn blemishes, it’s always best to take a localized treatment approach,” he advised.

“Focus on the affected area of ​​the t-shirt first, before washing the entire item.

“Not only will this save you money by reducing the amount of product used, but it will also give you time to properly remove the stain before the entire t-shirt is washed.”

BREAK A SWEAT

Econs recommended another common summer complaint: sweat stains on hats.

“Unlike vintage caps, most caps these days can be machine washed. However, you should still take certain precautions to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the item,” he said.

“Place other small, lightweight items, such as socks, underwear or t-shirts, in the washing machine to serve as padding and protect the shape of the hat.

“Avoid items like towels or hoodies that could crush the lid. Opt for a delicate or slow setting and low temperature to ensure a gentle cycle that will prevent further color runoff or damage to the lid.

‘Never tumble dry or use heat to dry the hat as this may cause it to become deformed. Instead, air dry the hat and place a rolled towel, socks, or something similar on the crown of the hat to reshape it.

When it comes to clothes that have turned yellow, Econs takes care of it.

“To make your white clothes shine again, try a natural vinegar-based solution. This method is not only gentle on clothes, but because vinegar is less toxic than bleach, it is also more environmentally friendly,” he said.

“To make the solution at home, mix half a teaspoon of dish soap with a quarter cup of white vinegar and a quarter cup of cold water.

“Apply directly to the stains, brushing lightly on the affected areas and then wash the t-shirt immediately.

“When drying white clothes, if the weather permits, always do it outdoors. The sun will naturally fade any discoloration, lightening the stains and keeping the shirt whiter for longer.”

He also shared tips on clothing that features green grass stains.

“Grass is rich in chlorophyll, which can easily transfer to the fabrics of our clothes, leaving bright, intimidating-looking green marks.

“Isopropyl alcohol acts as a solvent for this pigmentation and will remove the worst of the stain.

“Using a clean sponge, blot the stain before letting a small amount of alcohol sit for five to 10 minutes. Then, rinse the fabric with cold water and repeat the process if necessary.”

LIFE IS A BEACH

Econs gave expert advice on how to combat stains that can often occur from trips to the beach, including sand marks.

“Sand is hydrophilic, which simply means it’s attracted to anything wet – that’s why it sticks to damp clothes, bags and shoes at the beach.

“An easy way to combat this is to wash your items with fabric conditioner before you go.

“Fabric conditioner is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water, which should stop sand from sticking to your clothes and bags while you’re there.”

He recommended a simple solution for those who have made a mess while looking to cool off with a cold treat.

“Stains from fresh juices should disappear simply by soaking in cold water,” he said.

“However, because many popsicles often contain artificial food coloring, you may need a solution that breaks down any dye transferred to your clothes.

“Due to its acidity, lemon juice can work very well here. Just let some lemon sit on the stain for half an hour before washing as normal.