Here's What You Can Substitute For Stain Remover

Most of us have felt the horror of watching in slow motion as a warm splash of our morning coffee falls slowly toward a beloved piece of clothing. While there is no shortage of stain removers on the market, you might be surprised to learn that your home is filled to the brim with alternative methods that you can use in a pinch. Some people even prefer natural options over name-brand stain removers, since they contain none of the harsh, synthetic ingredients but much of the stain-removing power.

One product that is well-renowned for its stain removal properties is good, old-fashioned baking soda. Not only does baking soda supercharge your regular detergent's effectiveness (via The Spruce), it has long been known to help break down stains in clothing on its own. If sweat stains are bringing you down, it's worth trying out Arm and Hammer's two-ingredient fix for collar and underarm stains. Both recipes only require baking soda and water to work their magic, meaning most will never be without a powerful stain remover when at home.

Fans of Larry David's hit HBO show "Curb Your Enthusiasm" will not need to be told how effective a simple combination of club soda and salt can be, especially when removing fresh stains from a carpet. According to Apartment Therapy, this method works best if you blot the area first and then let the cleaning mixture sit for at least a few hours before vacuuming the scene of the crime. If you're distraught over spilling wine on your pristine carpet, no need to worry; you are free to head to bed and vacuum up the salt in the morning.

The best part about this natural stain remover is its uncanny ability to lift even disastrous beverage stains. However, those who don't regularly keep club soda in their home should be aware that Sprite and other sugary clear sodas are not an effective substitute. According to Hunker, using these types of beverages can create quite a sticky situation that will only worsen your carpet's condition and your evening.