Alcohol -
Alcohol stains must be cleaned as soon as possible, as they are often colourless initially, but will brown if left to stand or following a later wash.

As soon as it has been spilt, sponge it clean with warm water. To remove any remaining marks, pour some glycerine on the stain and rub gently, and then rinse with warm water using a spray bottle if it is a carpet stain.

For stubborn and dried stains, use a solution with equal measures of methylated spirits and ammonia. First test the solution on an unseen patch, and if successful, sponge it on the dry fabric and then clean again with warm water. If the material is white, laundry bleach can also be used.

Make up -
To begin, blot or scrape off as much of the make up stain as possible. Then, using a white cloth, paper towel or cotton ball, blot a deep stain with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. If the stain is only on the surface, rub it in one direction. Using a circular motion can destroy the texture of carpeting.

If that does not work, apply a solution of:

1/4 teaspoon of dish wash detergent
1/4 cup of water
Blot the stain until it is removed, and rinse with a spray bottle, dabbing up any excess moisture.

Motor grease and oil -
Scrape off any excess to start.

Washable materials: Use a spot stain remover, or rub lard or Vaseline onto the dry stain. Wash it in a quality washing detergent.

Unwashable materials: This may prove difficult. Repeatedly blot the area with dry cleaning fluid (you will need to change your pad or cloth frequently). Sponge off with lukewarm water and detergent, and then finally clean warm water alone.

 

Urine -
As urine differs in composition, so do the stains and the solutions to clear them. Normally urine is acidic, and so the fabric should be soaked or sponged with a sanitizer containing sodium percarbonate, or with a solution of ammonia and ? cup of warm water.

If this is unsuccessful, try a solution containing equal measures of vinegar and warm water to see if the stain is alkaline. Stubborn stains may require sponging with diluted hydrogen peroxide.

 

Wine -
The key to removing wine stains is to clean them as soon as possible starting with the mildest solutions. Combat red wine stains by pouring white wine over the top and soaking it up. Wash with cold water and ammonia and then rinse thoroughly. For white wine, use cold water and ammonia, or go onto other treatments seen under Alcohol.