3 tips to get stains out of clothes

Tackle those hard-to-remove stains with these tips using everyday household ingredients. You might have thought you'd have to throw out your favourite shirt, but maybe won't after all.

Vinegar, baking soda and ammonia — a mighty trio beefed up even more by the addition of liquid castile soap. (Liquid castile soap is sold in natural products stores and some supermarkets.)

Treat grease, coffee, fruit juice and other common stains with this spray. Always shake it well before using.

• 125 ml (0.5 c) white vinegar
• 75 ml (0.33 c) clear household ammonia
• 50 g (0.25 c) baking soda
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) liquid castile soap
• 1.5 L (1.5 qt) water

1. Combine all ingredients in a two-litre (half-gallon) container and stir well.
2. Pour into a 500 millilitre (16-ounce) spray bottle.
3. Spray the solution onto a stain and let it set for three to five minutes.
4. Rub the stain gently with a soft cloth and then wash the garment as soon as possible.

Spread baby powder or talcum powder along the collar and underarms of soiled clothing and press gently with a warm iron.

• The powder should absorb the perspiration and make it easier for the rest to come out in the wash.

Dabbing petroleum jelly on lipstick marks before washing a garment is a removal method used by stain specialists. If it's good enough for pros, it should work just swell at home, too.

You'll be all smiles when you finally get that stubborn stain out of your favourite shirt — and so will the friend who gave it to for your birthday!