Catching stains early with a targeted pre-treatment spray dramatically improves the chances of complete removal. This spray uses hydrogen peroxide as the primary stain fighter, which is especially effective on protein-based stains like blood, grass, and food. Dish soap provides surfactant action that lifts and suspends stain particles, and a small amount of baking soda boosts the cleaning power. This combination works on a wide range of common stains and is safe for most colorfast fabrics.

Ingredients

• 2 oz hydrogen peroxide (3%)
• 1 oz distilled water
• 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 drops lemon essential oil

Directions

1. Combine hydrogen peroxide and distilled water in a clean dark glass spray bottle.
2. Add dish soap carefully.
3. Add baking soda and allow fizzing to subside.
4. Add lemon essential oil.
5. Cap and gently swirl to combine.
6. Spray directly onto stain as soon as possible after it occurs.
7. Allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
8. Blot with a clean cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward.
9. Launder as normal.

Tips and variations

• Always test on an inconspicuous area first as hydrogen peroxide can lighten some fabrics
• Do not use on silk, wool, or dry-clean-only fabrics
• For red wine stains, apply immediately and follow with club soda
• For grease stains, apply dish soap directly first before using this spray
• Use a dark glass bottle as light degrades hydrogen peroxide

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