Before you clean: never mix products, and check the care label first. Read the safety rules

The reference index

Browse stains

Start with what caused the mark, then choose a reviewed material-specific treatment.

By stain By material

Children & pets

1 entry

Pet urineA biological stain where odour and contamination matter as well as appearance. Heat can make some carpet problems harder to correct.

Cosmetics & personal care

2 entries

Fake tanA cosmetic colour-transfer stain. Washability, fabric colour and whether the product has dried all affect the safe next step.Hair dyeA concentrated dye stain with a real risk of permanent colour change. Delicate, porous and valuable materials need especially cautious treatment.

Food & drink

3 entries

CoffeeA water-based drink stain containing dark-coloured compounds. Milk, cream or flavoured syrup makes it a mixed stain and can change the best treatment.CurryA mixed food stain that can contain oil, protein and strongly coloured spices such as turmeric. One generic remedy is rarely suitable for every material.Red wineA coloured beverage stain that is most responsive before it dries. The material, dye stability and care label decide how far treatment can safely go.