Tip of the week: Quick-response stain-removal strategies

For grease spots. Cornmeal or talcum powder can keep oily food stains from setting. Just sprinkle on, let the powder absorb the stain, and brush off with a dry cloth.

For ink spots. Brush the spot gently with a toothbrush dampened with rubbing alcohol.

For coffee or tea. Using a spray bottle, spritz the stain with a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water. Blot with a damp cloth, and then dab the stain with a solution of 1 tbsp clear ammonia in 1 cup of water. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth, and then with a dry cloth.

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For red wine. This job also requires three cloths. Dampen the first and use it to blot the stain. Use the second cloth to apply white wine to the spot. Finally, sprinkle baking soda on top and let it sit 20 minutes before removing the whole mess with a dampened third cloth.

Source: Real Simple