Keeping your uniforms in pristine condition is crucial for projecting a professional image and ensuring longevity. Whether you work in a restaurant or any other industry, knowing easy effective stain removal techniques and proper washing methods can significantly enhance the lifespan of your uniforms. In this article, we will share 10 valuable tricks of the trade to help you tackle stains promptly and to get the most out of our R2R uniforms.

chef whites trick

Tackling Stains: The Sooner, the Better!

When it comes to stains, it’s always best to act quickly to prevent them from setting in.

Hot Tip #1: Sard Wonder Stick for Isolated Stains

The Sard Wonder Stick is a versatile stain remover that works wonders on isolated stains. Apply the product to the stain and leave the garment in your washing pile until laundry day. By the time you wash your uniforms, the stain will have pre-loosened, and it should lift well during the wash. Another helpful trick is Nappisan, an excellent option for restoring an all-over white appearance. Just remember not to soak uniforms longer than overnight.

 

Tricks for Specific Stains:

Different types of stains require specific treatments. Here are some effective remedies for common stains you may encounter while working in a restaurant:

  1. Set-in Stains: Vinegar and Baking Soda Paste

For set-in stains, saturate the area with vinegar and rub a paste made from equal parts vinegar and baking soda onto the spot. If the stain persists, create a mixture of vinegar, liquid laundry detergent, and water in a bucket. Soak the garment overnight, rinse, and wash as usual.

  1. Chocolate Stains: The Freezer and Milk Method

To remove chocolate stains, start by placing the garment in the freezer to harden the chocolate. Scrape off the excess, then run hot water down the back of the stain to melt and push it through to the front. Rub washing up detergent into the stain and soak the garment in milk for 30 minutes to an hour before washing.

  1. Berry Stains: Lemon Juice and Sunlight

Wash the berry stain as usual and leave it in direct sunlight to benefit from the bleaching effect of the sun’s rays. For tougher stains, rub lemon juice over the top or lay a slice of lemon on the stain. Rinse, dry, and repeat if necessary.

  1. Tomato Stains: Vinegar Treatment

Soak the tomato stain for 30 minutes in neat white vinegar (1 to 2 tablespoons). Rinse, rub detergent directly into the stain, and wash on a cool cycle. Repeat as needed.

  1. Ink Stains: Hairspray and Vinegar

Soak the ink-stained area in an alcohol-based product like methylated spirits or hairspray. Dab vinegar on the hairspray to remove it along with the ink. Then wash the garment as usual.

  1. Oil Stains: Dishwashing Liquid or Washing Powder

For oil-based stains, apply dishwashing liquid or washing powder directly to the greasy area and rub it in. Wash on a hot cycle and repeat if necessary.

  1. Blood Stains: Salt Paste

Address blood stains promptly by creating a paste with salt and cold water. Rub the paste directly onto the stain within 10-15 minutes of the incident. Rinse with cold water and repeat as necessary.

  1. Coffee or Tea Stains: Vinegar Water Mix

Soak the stained fabric in a mixture of 1/3 cup vinegar and 2/3 cup water. Dry the garment in the sun, then launder as usual.

  1. Mustard Stains: Vinegar soak

Apply undiluted vinegar to the stain and let it soak. If needed, treat the spot with laundry detergent before washing. Repeat the process if necessary.