Sunscreen stains can be quite difficult to remove from clothes, and now that summer’s around the corner it’s important to know how to properly tackle them.
An expert has shared her foolproof trick to leave your clothes good as new after a long day out in the sun wearing sunscreen.
Cleaning expert Claire Helen who has partnered with Blake Mill to spread her knowledge said she uses white vinegar – something most of us already have at home.
She explained: “Sunscreen is essential for UV protection but can leave behind stubborn rust-like stains due to a chemical called avobenzone.
“Scrape off as much of the sunscreen as possible before flushing the area with cold water (avoid warm water, as it can set the stain).”
The pro continued: “Apply neat white vinegar to the stain and let it sit for at least eight hours or overnight.
“Follow up with an oxy-based enzyme stain remover and soak further, then wash using a biological washing detergent.
“Again, making the most of our summer sunshine to dry in the light as the UV rays will brighten and whiten further any stains.”
Similarly, increasing temperatures are likely to bring along more sweat-stained clothes than during the rest of the year, meaning they will require specific care.
To effectively clean the most visible and yellow sweat stains, the cleaning expert also uses a white vinegar soak.
She said: “Sweat stains are to be expected in the summer heat. Soak the stained area in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water for a few hours.
“Vinegar kills bacteria trapped in the fabric, breaks down the fatty deposits in sweat and deodorises. Then, wash the garment using a biological washing detergent.
“The enzymes in the detergent help break down the sweat molecules further, leaving your clothes fresh and clean. Hang to dry in sunlight to further lift yellow stains out of white shirts.”
