Work uniforms really go through the ringer, whether you’re in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, or food service. From grease and glue to paint and ink, tough stains can quickly build up and make your uniform look worn and unprofessional.
Fortunately, with the right techniques and a little patience, you can remove even the most stubborn stains and keep your workwear looking clean and professional. Here’s how to tackle common uniform issues and some top tips on how to remove stains from clothes.
General Tips for Stain Removal
Before diving into specific stain types, it’s important to know a few general guidelines that apply to nearly every situation:
- Act Fast: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove. Fresh stains haven’t set into the fabric and can often be lifted with just water and mild detergent.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Rubbing a stain can push it deeper into the fibers. Always blot gently with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Test Products First: Before using any cleaning product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to avoid discoloration or damage.
- Avoid Heat: Heat from a dryer or iron can set the stain permanently. Always make sure the stain is fully removed before dry cleaning.
Stain Removal by Type
Each type of stain requires a different approach. Here’s how to remove some of the most common (and challenging) ones found on work uniforms:
Remove Paint
Paint stains are common for those in trades like construction or painting and decorating. Whether it’s water-based or oil-based paint, to remove paint with different bases the technique varies:
- Water-Based Paint (like acrylic or latex): Rinse with cold water while the paint is still wet. Then, apply a mixture of dish soap and warm water, scrubbing gently with a soft brush.
- Oil-Based Paint: These are trickier. Use a solvent like turpentine or mineral spirits to break down the paint, applying it with a cloth. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a heavy-duty laundry detergent.
Pro Tip: Always work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents, and wear gloves and other PPE to protect your skin.
Remove Glue Stains
If your work involves adhesives, glue stains are almost inevitable. The key if you want to successfully remove glue stains is to identify the type of glue:
- White School Glue or Craft Glue: Soak the stained area in cold water, then apply laundry detergent and gently rub the fabric together.
- Super Glue: Acetone (found in most nail polish removers) is effective. Dab a small amount onto the glue stain with a cotton ball, then rinse thoroughly.
- Fabric Glue: These can be tougher to remove. Try freezing the garment and gently scraping off the hardened glue before applying a stain remover.
Oil Stains
Oil stains, from engines, cooking oil, or machinery, are some of the most stubborn.
- Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch directly on the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Brush off the powder and apply dish soap directly to the stain.
- Let it sit for another 15 minutes, then wash the garment in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
Ink, Blood, and Food Stains
- Ink: Use rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to blot the stain before washing.
- Blood: Always use cold water. Soak the stain and scrub with hydrogen peroxide or an enzymatic cleaner.
- Food: Pre-treat with stain remover or vinegar and baking soda paste.
Special Techniques and Products
If standard soap and water aren’t cutting it, these specialized products and techniques can help:
- Enzyme Cleaners: Enzyme cleaners are great for protein-based stains like blood, sweat, and food. These break down organic material at the molecular level.
- Oxidizing Agents: Products like hydrogen peroxide or oxygen bleach are ideal for brightening whites and removing persistent stains.
- Heavy-Duty Degreasers: Industrial-strength degreasers can be used on thick oil and grease stains—just ensure they’re safe for textiles.
- Soaking Method: For older stains, soak the garment overnight in warm water with a scoop of oxygen bleach or baking soda before washing.
Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s care label when applying any stain remover or bleach.
Tips for Specific Fabrics
Not all work uniforms are made the same. Different fabrics respond differently to cleaning agents and techniques.
Cotton
Cotton is durable and can typically withstand aggressive stain removal techniques. Hot water and stronger stain removers are generally safe.
Polyester and Blends
These synthetic fabrics require a gentler approach. Avoid high heat, and test any strong cleaning agents first.
Denim
Denim uniforms are tough, but stains can get trapped in the weave. Use a toothbrush to work in stain remover, and rinse thoroughly.
Flame-Resistant or High-Visibility Clothing
Specialty uniforms often come with coatings or treatments that can be damaged by certain chemicals or high heat. Always check the garment tag and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before using stain removers or bleach.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Even with the best intentions, some mistakes can make stains worse or damage the garment. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Using Hot Water on the Wrong Stains: Heat can set protein stains like blood or dairy. Always use cold water first.
- Skipping the Pre-Treatment: Tossing stained uniforms straight into the washer often isn’t effective. Always pre-treat for best results.
- Overusing Detergent: More soap doesn’t mean more cleaning power. Excess detergent can build up in the fabric and make it harder to rinse clean.
- Drying Before the Stain Is Gone: Drying sets the stain permanently. Check the fabric carefully after washing and re-treat if necessary.
In Summary
Work uniforms are an essential part of your professional identity. Keeping them clean and stain-free doesn’t just improve appearance, it also extends the lifespan of the garment and saves money in the long run. Whether you’re dealing with oil stains, trying to remove paint, or tackling stubborn glue stains, knowing the right stain removal strategies makes all the difference. By using the proper techniques, products, and fabric-specific care, you can keep your uniforms looking sharp and ready for whatever the workday throws your way.
Sources
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All Seasons Uniforms. (n.d.-b). Clothing care 101: How to remove oil stains from work clothes. https://www.allseasonsuniforms.com/blog/clothing-care-101-how-to-remove-oil-stains-from-work-clothes
All Seasons Uniforms. (n.d.-c). How to remove paint from work clothes. https://www.allseasonsuniforms.com/blog/how-to-remove-paint-from-work-clothes
Cleveland Clinic. (2023, February 27). What is hydrogen peroxide good for? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-hydrogen-peroxide-good-for
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About the Author
Nick Warrick
Nick Warrick is the Sales Manager at All Seasons Uniforms. With over 15 years of experience in the work uniform business, he has worked with hundreds of clients across 20 different industries. Holding bachelor’s degrees in both Business Administration and Information Technology, Nick revamped the company’s online presence, offering its customers a new uniform shopping experience.