How to Remove Water Stains From Fabric

How to Remove Water Stains From Washable Clothes

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 hand wash a single item using distilled water and a bit of detergent. Or, you can use the following steps to remove a water stain.

1. Prepare the Ironing Area and Stained Item

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

2. Heat Iron

   Set the iron to the proper temperature setting for the type of fabric. Turn off the steam setting. Allow several minutes for the iron to reach the proper temperature.

3. Dampen the Stained Area

   Dip a white microfiber cloth in distilled water and wring until damp but not dripping. Thoroughly wet the water-stained area of the garment. Move the dampened area of the garment to a dry portion of the towel.

4. Iron the Garment

   With the steam setting on the iron off, iron the dampened area until it is completely dry. Repeat the dampening and ironing steps if needed.

5. Get Rid of Remaining Traces

   If slight staining remains, turn the garment to the right side. Spread it flat and rub the stained area with the back of a stainless steel spoon.

How to Remove Water Marks From Upholstery

Since upholstery cannot be removed, the techniques are different for removing water marks. The most crucial element is drying the area properly to prevent mold and mildew growth in the padding.

1. Mix a Cleaning Solution

   In a bowl or spray bottle, mix a solution of 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar and two cups of distilled water.

2. Dampen the Stained Area

   Use a white microfiber cloth that will not leave lint or trace dyes on the upholstery. Dip the cloth in the cleaning solution and wring until damp and not dripping. Press the cloth on the stained upholstery area 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 dampening the fabric.

   Tip

   You can also use a clothes steamer filled with distilled water and distilled white vinegar to dampen the water. stain. Hold the steamer far enough away so sputtering water will not hit the upholstery.

3. Absorb the Moisture

   Fold a stack of paper towels or white microfiber towels to absorb the moisture. Place the towels over the dampened area and weigh them down with a heavy book, vase, or weight. Check the towels frequently and change as they become wet. Remove the weight when no more moisture is being transferred.

4. Dry the Upholstery

   To speed drying especially in humid areas, use a hairdryer set on low or cool air. Hold the dryer at least two inches above the damp area and use it until the fabric is completely dry to the touch.