Stubborn stains can be frustrating, especially when they seem impossible to remove. Fortunately, you don't need expensive cleaning products to tackle them. Many household cleaners items work wonders on tough stains. 

Here's how to use common household cleaners to make your home spotless.

1. Coffee and Tea Stains:

  • Problem: Stains on mugs, countertops, or fabric.

Solution:

  • Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and scrub with a damp sponge. For fabric, make a paste with water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing.
  • Vinegar: Mix one part vinegar with two parts water. Apply to the stain and wipe clean.

2. Grease Stains:

  • Problem: Oily marks on clothes or kitchen surfaces.

Solution:

  • Dish Soap: Apply a small amount directly to the grease stain. Rub gently and rinse with warm water. For clothes, followed by washing in a machine.
  • Cornstarch or Baking Soda: Sprinkle on fresh stains to absorb grease before wiping clean.

3. Ink Stains:

  • Problem: Pen marks on fabric, furniture, or walls.

Solution:

  • Rubbing Alcohol: Dab alcohol on a cotton ball and gently blot the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the ink.
  • Hairspray: Spray on the stain and blot with a clean cloth.

4. Wine Stains:

  • Problem: Red wine spills on carpets or upholstery.

Solution:

  • Salt: Immediately cover the stain with salt to absorb the wine. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap: Mix equal parts and dab the solution onto the stain with a clean cloth.

5. Rust Stains:

  • Problem: Rust marks on sinks, tubs, or clothing.

Solution:

  • Lemon Juice and Salt: Sprinkle salt over the stain and apply lemon juice. Let it sit for a few hours and rinse.
  • Vinegar: Soak the stained area in vinegar, then brush.

6. Hard Water Stains:

  • Problem: Cloudy spots on glassware, faucets, or tiles.

Solution:

  • White Vinegar: Soak a cloth in vinegar and wrap it around the stained area. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wipe clean.
  • Lemon: Rub half a lemon over the stain, leave for 10 minutes, and rinse.

7. Blood Stains:

  • Problem: Dried or fresh blood on fabric.

Solution:

  • Cold Water: Rinse fresh stains with cold water immediately.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: For dried stains, apply hydrogen peroxide directly. Dab with a cloth until the stain lifts.

8. Chewing Gum:

  • Problem: Stuck on clothes, carpets, or furniture.

Solution:

  • Ice Cubes: Freeze the Gum with ice cubes until it hardens. Then, gently scrape it off with a knife or spoon.

9. Crayon Marks:

  • Problem: Crayon stains on walls or furniture.

Solution:

  • Toothpaste: Use non-gel toothpaste to scrub the marks off the wall gently.
  • Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water and apply it with a sponge.

10. Sweat Stains:

  • Problem: Yellow marks on white clothing.

Solution:

  • Baking Soda Paste: Combine baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and wash as usual.
  • White Vinegar: Mix vinegar with water, spray on the stain, and wash.

Tips for Success:

Always test a small, hidden area before applying any cleaner to ensure it doesn't damage the surface or fabric.

Act quickly. Fresh stains are easier to remove than dried ones.

Avoid mixing cleaners like bleach and ammonia, as they can produce toxic fumes.

With these household solutions, you can save time, money, and frustration while keeping your home clean. Next time you encounter a tough stain, try one of these methods before reaching for commercial cleaners.