Even the toughest stains are no match when you have the right products. But when you (or someone in your family) has sensitive skin, finding those products can be pretty tricky. Many can be harsh on skin that’s easily irritated and prone to itch. We’re coming clean on how to get those stubborn stains out and keep your skin calm, all with one detergent: Arm + Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear. The hypoallergenic formula is made without perfumes, dyes, or preservatives, and has a 100 percent rating from SkinSAFE*, a partnership developed with the Mayo Clinic that uses clinical data on ingredients to help people with sensitive skin identify products made without the most common allergens. But don’t let its gentleness fool you. It’s still a high-performing, stain-busting formula. So whether it’s a syrup kind of day, or a household project gone awry, here’s how to use Arm + Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear (and other household items) to get out those spots while sparing your skin.
*Certified by SkinSAFE to exclude 100% of their topmost considered skin allergens.
Act on the spot
A dollop of ketchup at a bar-b-que; a splash of red wine at the restaurant. Stains happen fast, and for best results, you need to act fast, too. Your best stain fighter when you’re on-the-go is club soda. The carbonated water can help flush out a stain fast — simply blot the stain, pour a small amount of club soda directly to the spot, and wash with detergent as soon as possible.
Soak first, wash later
If you can take off your clothing right after the stain occurs, place the garment in cool water to prevent it from setting into the fabric. Soak it for at least 30 minutes. If the stain is gone, launder as usual using Arm + Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Detergent. If the stain is still there, keep reading!
Pre-treat stubborn and dry stains before you wash
If a lengthy pre-soak didn’t do the trick, or you couldn’t tackle it until the spot already dried, it’s time to pre-treat. Simply wet fabric and apply Arm + Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Detergent on spots or tough stains. Rub gently, wait 5-10 minutes, then wash immediately. Always be sure to test an inside seam for colorfastness.
Use a few stain-specific add-ons
Depending on the stain, you can add a few extras to help it dissolve faster. For soiled grass stains, you can use a soft toothbrush to gently rub in the liquid detergent.
Give your detergent a boost
Mix a ½ cup of baking soda to your wash cycle along with your Arm + Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear Detergent. Bonus: Baking soda works to brighten up your brights, too, with no risk of discoloration.
Don’t dry it unless the stain is gone
Once the wash cycle is done, take a peek at that stain before you toss the garment in the dryer. Why? The heat of the dryer will lock it in place. If it’s gone, good job! You get the green light to dry. If it’s still there, repeat your pre-treat with your detergent and try again.