How to Remove Water Stains

How to Remove Water Stains From Washable Clothes

Water stains can be removed relatively easily from washable clothing. Act as quickly as possible; if a stain sits for too long, then the chances of completely removing the stain are greatly reduced. Fortunately, there are simple at-home steps you can take to eliminate the stain before it permanently sets.

1. Prepare the Ironing Area and Stained Item

   Cover an ironing board or pad with a plush white towel. Turn the water-stained garment inside-out and place the stained area on the towel.

2. Heat Iron

   Set the iron to the highest temperature setting as advised by the care label on the fabric. Turn off the steam setting and allow the iron several minutes to reach the proper temperature.

3. Dampen the Stained Area

   Dip a white microfiber cloth in distilled water and wring it out until damp but not dripping. Thoroughly wet the stained area of the garment and continue to blot with a dry section of the cloth.

4. Iron the Garment

   Iron the dampened area with the steam turned off until it is completely dry. Repeat the dampening and ironing steps as needed.

5. Get Rid of Remaining Traces

   Turn the garment right-side-out if staining remains. Spread it flat and rub the stained area with the back of a stainless steel spoon.

How to Remove Water Stains From Upholstery

Removing water stains from upholstery requires slightly different practices than removing them from clothing. The most crucial element is thoroughly drying the cleaned area to prevent mold and mildew from developing inside cushions.

1. Mix a Cleaning Solution

   Mix a solution of 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar and two cups of distilled water in a bowl or spray bottle.

2. Dampen the Stained Area

   Dip a white microfiber cloth in the cleaning solution and wring until damp but not dripping. Press the microfiber cloth onto the stained area of the upholstery to thoroughly dampen the fabric. Do not scrub or rub the area excessively to prevent damage. For large areas, a spray bottle may be easier to use for wetting the fabric.

3. Absorb the Moisture

   Press a stack of paper towels or a white microfiber cloth into the stain to absorb the moisture. Place the towels over the dampened area and weigh them down with a heavy object such as a book (chose a hardcover without a paper jacket). Check the towels frequently and change them as they become wet. Remove the weight when no more moisture is being transferred.

4. Dry the Upholstery

   Use a hairdryer on low or cool air to speed the drying process, especially in high humidity. Hold the dryer at least two inches above the damp area and apply air until the fabric is completely dry to the touch.

When to Call a Professional

If your water-stained clothing or upholstery is vintage or silk, consult a professional cleaner or restoration expert rather than attempting to clean it yourself. Improper cleaning could permanently damage your item. A specialized cleaner will know how best to protect your upholstery.

Additional Tips for Handling Water Stains

In addition to the methods mentioned above, you can use a clothes steamer filled with distilled water and white vinegar to dampen the water stain before treatment. Be careful to hold the steamer far enough away so that sputtering water doesn't splash your item. Simply rewashing the water-spotted clothes or linens with your regular laundry detergent on a normal cycle will often remove the water stains. You can also repeatedly hand wash a single item using distilled water and a bit of detergent.

Repeat your preferred cleaning method as many times as necessary until the stain is removed. While it's highly likely that you'll be able to remove water stains at home, you can visit a professional for more specialized guidance if the stain doesn't budge.

For clothing or shoes that have been damaged by contaminated floodwaters, additional cleaning steps to remove stains, as well as disinfection, will be necessary.