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Tuesday Time to Tackle: Laundry Stains

Last week, I had fun at a garage sale.  I found an apron (which practically covers me from head to toe), a couple of canning jars, a little container with a lid with holes--perfect for dusting powdered sugar, a piece of cotton fabric, and the piece de resistance:  a vintage tablecloth.  When I asked how much my items would be, the man suggested a grand total of $3, and I certainly didn't argue! 

When I got home, I realized that the tablecloth did have some stains. 

After my success using Dawn in the shower cleaner, I decided to apply a tiny bit to the stain.  That worked quite well, but I hoped to do better. 


I remembered a recipe I had used years ago that I had read in The Tightwad Gazette. I did a quick internet search, and found several different versions.  What I ended up using was:  a big bucket of hot water (I didn't measure, but big enough to put a tablecloth in), 1 cup powdered Cascade dishwashing detergent  ("Powered by Dawn" according to the label!), and 1/2 cup Clorox Color-Safe 2x concentrated bleach substitute.  I soaked the tablecloth in it for a few hours, then laundered as usual. 


I know it's not completely gone, but I don't think it's terribly noticeable, particularly when you look at the whole tablecloth.


Can you see the stain?  (It's on the left short side of the tablecloth.)

My son and future daughter-in-law are going to have two receptions, since they are from different states.  The reception here is going to be a fun, vintage county fair theme.  I'm thinking that I might be able to use this tablecloth.  What do you think?

Thankful thought:  Thanks for the fun of garage sales, and for stain remover!

Comments

  1. karen608June 12, 2012 at 6:22 PM

    Oh that table cloth is so sweet! What a deal you got. You could use the cloth and cover it with clear vinyl to protect it from new stains. It is lovely and so glad you rescued it.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Live Laugh RoweJune 20, 2012 at 11:14 AM

    Super sweet and vintage, Kristi :) Loved your ending with a thankful thought! Have a fabulous day. xo-Kelly

    ReplyDelete

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