 Nature's
Way
with Alan Hayes
Eliminating spots and stains naturally
Supermarket shelves are filled with a host of different cleaners that promise us a quick and simple way in which to remove different types of spots and stains. Most of these cleaning agents contain strong chemicals that can pollute the environment as well as posing a hazard to our health. Yet there is no need to use dangerous cleaning products when safe, natural alternatives will do the job just as effectively without adversely affecting the environment or our health.
So the next time your favourite woollen jumper has perspiration stains, food or ballpoint pen has stained your clothing, or there is a grease stain on your carpet, why not try the following solutions.
Strong vegetable strains, such as beetroot, should be treated immediately when they are fresh. Stretch the fabric over a basin, sprinkle salt over the affected area and pour hot water through it. Rinse in cold water and then wash as usual.
Ballpoint pen marks can be removed from natural fibres by sponging or soaking in methylated spirits. On acetate fabrics, use one part methylated spirits to two parts cold water. Always work from the outer edge to the centre of the stain over a thick absorbent pad, changing the position of the pad occasionally as it absorbs the stain.
Blood stains should be treated by first soaking the stained garment in cold salty water while the stain is still fresh, then washing in warm soapy water. Do not soak or wash in hot water as this will set the stain.
Grease and oil stains can be removed from carpet by mixing sufficient water and kaolin (china clay, available from the chemist) or Fuller's earth until it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste over the soiled areas and leave it until completely dry (24 to 36 hours), then reduce to a powder with a stiff broom, and vacuum up.
A general, all-purpose stain remover, for all carpets, can also be made from soap flakes. Dissolve half a cup of pure soap flakes, or grated pure soap, in boiling water, allow to cool, then whip until stiff. Apply to a small area at a time, allow to dry, then remove the residue and wipe with a damp cloth. When the carpet is almost dry, brush up the pile.
To remove ink stains from carpet, immediately cover with salt to absorb the stain, then vacuum to remove the salt.
Garments affected by mildew can be treated by sponging them with lemon juice, then placing the garment in the sun until all the mildew spores are gone.
Clean soiled nappies by first pre soaking them in 45 grams of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in a bucket of warm water, then wash in hot soapy water and air dry.
Perspiration stains in woollen jumpers can be treated by sponging the affected area with white vinegar, then washing in warm salty water. If the stains are old and stubborn apply a paste made from one tablespoon cream of tartar, three crushed aspirins and warm water. Leave to dry, then rinse thoroughly.
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