How to Get the Worst Stains Out of Linen

To get the worst stains out of linen, it’s essential to act quickly and pretreat the fabric with specific methods designed to eliminate certain types of stains. For example, blood, red wine, grass stains, coffee grounds and grease spots are all treated differently, and it starts with using the right pretreatment process. 

Because linen is somewhat delicate, take care as you clean the area. Avoid pressing hard on the stain, which could push the substance deeper into the fabric. 

Treat Different Types of Stains Differently

Not all stains are created equal, especially when it comes to how they affect linen. Each will require different solutions to lift the stain out. 

Linen fabrics are used to make sheets, tablecloths and clothes. As a result, some of the most common stains include: 

• Food stains.

• Beverage stains.

• Ink stains.

• Grease and oil stains. 

• Grass stains.

• Sweat stains.

• Blood stains.

• Mud and dirt stains.

Act Immediately

For the best chance of avoiding a stain, act quickly. Remove any excess liquid or solids from the linen. Try using a butter knife or spoon to gently scrape off any residue. Try to avoid pressing the substance into the linen further.

Next, blot the area gently. You’re aiming to remove as much of the staining substance as possible without driving it further into the linen.

Pretreat Stains

Pretreating stains on linen is a proactive step that helps prevent stains from setting in permanently. Various pretreatment solutions can be used, such as dishwashing soap, enzyme-based detergents or white vinegar. 

A chemical stain solution often works best, however. This can help break down the stain, making it easier to remove during regular washing. The right cleaner prevents the stain from setting in, retains the linen’s quality and ensures the fabric stays bright and clean.

Use the Right Detergent

Use a detergent that is effective in stain removal without damaging the fabric. Look for a detergent with the following characteristics:

• Enzyme-based formula.

• Oxygenated bleach.

• Color-safe.

• No harsh chemicals.

• Suitable for delicate fabrics.

• Stain removal additives.

If you’re using a laundering or rental company, ask about the detergent they use to ensure it will be safe and effective for your linens.

Wash Linen with Stains

To wash linen with stains in a washing machine, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove excess residue, and pretreat the stain.

2. Separate all items by color and fabric type to avoid color bleed from one item to another.

3. Don’t overload the machine.

4. Use the recommended amount of a gentle detergent for delicate fabrics. Using too much or too little detergent can be detrimental to the process.

5. Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cool to lukewarm water. A hot water cycle can potentially damage linen.

6. Add an extra rinse cycle to remove all detergent and stain residue.

7. Avoid using fabric softeners.

8. After washing, check for remaining stains. Repeat treatment and washing if needed to remove any remaining stains or marks left behind.

Drying Linen: When and How

To properly dry linen after stain removal:

• Ensure all stains are gone before drying, as heat can set them.

• Air-dry outdoors in the shade to preserve the fabric’s quality.

• Avoid direct sunlight, which may fade colors and weaken fibers.

• Smooth out wrinkles before hanging for easier ironing later.

• Use the lowest heat setting if using a dryer, and only if necessary.

• Remove linen while slightly damp to maintain its texture.

• Iron damp linen on the reverse side for a smooth finish.

• Fold and store neatly in a cool, dry place, allowing linen to breathe.

How to Address Certain Types of Stains

Follow these specific steps for certain types of stains:

Blood Stains

1. Soak the stained area in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes.

2. Blot the stain gently and rinse with cold water.

3. Apply an enzyme-based detergent directly to the stain and rub gently.

4. Repeat soaking and pretreatment if necessary.

5. Machine wash with cold water and the right amount of detergent.

6. Check if the stain is gone before drying, and repeat the process as needed. Avoid using heat until the stain is fully removed.

7. Air-dry the linen outside in the shade if possible, or use the lowest heat setting on a dryer.

Red Wine Stains

1. Blot the stain with a clean cloth. Don’t rub.

2. Sprinkle salt or baking soda on the stain to absorb some wine.

3. Carefully pour boiling water onto the stain from above. Don’t dip it into boiling water or soak.

4. Apply liquid laundry detergent or stain remover, and gently rub it into the fibers.

5. If possible, soak the linen in cold water with oxygen-based bleach.

6. Check after 30 minutes. Repeat if needed.

7. Machine wash with the right amount of detergent.

8. Air-dry outside in the shade if you can. If using a dryer, ensure the stain is gone first.

Grass Stains

1. Apply liquid laundry detergent or stain remover directly to the stain and gently rub.

2. Soak the stained area in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes.

3. Wash with the hottest water suitable for the fabric and the right amount of regular detergent.

4. Check if the stain is gone and repeat the process as needed before drying on low heat.

5. Air-dry the linen outdoors to freshen it up if possible.

Coffee Stains

1. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth, making sure not to rub it.

2. Apply liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in.

3. Soak the stained fabric in cold water for about 30 minutes.

4. Machine wash the linen with the warmest water suitable for the fabric and the right amount of detergent.

5. Check if the stain is gone before drying, and repeat the process as needed. Avoid using heat until the stain is fully removed.

6.  Air-dry the linen outside in the shade if possible, or use the lowest heat setting on a dryer.

Grease Stains

1. Apply dishwashing liquid to the stain and gently rub it in with a laundry brush.

2. If the grease persists, rub liquid laundry detergent into the spot.

3. Soak the stained part of the item in cold water for about 30 minutes.

4. Wash with the hottest water that is safe for the fabric and an appropriate amount of detergent.

5. Check if the stain is gone before drying, and repeat the process as needed. Avoid using heat until the stain is fully removed.

6. Air-dry the linen outside in the shade if possible, or use the lowest heat setting on a dryer.

Let Alsco Uniforms Help You Remove Stains

For hotels, restaurants, vacation rentals and salons, Alsco Uniforms can help if stubborn stains are giving you trouble when laundering linens. Our specially developed NPE-free laundry formulas are tailored to effectively remove stains, turning your linens into hygienically clean fabrics.

Save both time and money when you choose Alsco Uniforms' professional linen laundry service. Your linens will always look their best. Contact us now to learn how we can help you get the job done. 

References

Laundry Basics. American Cleaning Institute. 

Stain Removal Guide. American Cleaning Institute.