Contents
When searching for the best homemade stain remover, Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is your top choice. This 22oz spray bottle uses active enzymes to tackle tough stains like food and blood. For a more affordable option, consider Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray in a 4oz size, which works well but may require more applications for stubborn stains.
Most buyers face a tradeoff between size and strength. Shout offers a larger bottle for extensive cleaning, while Miss Mouth provides a smaller, portable option for quick fixes. The rest of this page will explore the best options available, helping you make an informed decision.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
We will review some of the top stain removers available today. These products stand out for their effectiveness and unique features.
1. Best Overall
Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray, 22oz
- What You’ll Get: One 22oz spray bottle of Shout’s Prewash Active Enzyme Stain Remover Spray. Bottle, excluding trigger & label, made of 25% Post Consumer Recycled plastic!
- Everyday formula: works on a wide range of stains from food, drinks, makeup, grass, dirt, red wine, blood, and more
- Clings, Penetrates, & Lifts: 50x more concentrated than in-wash powered when applied directly to stain
- Quick & Easy To Use: works on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, and works in all water temperatures and in HE and standard washers
- Spray, Rub, and Wash: our formula let’s you treat the toughest stains and wash up to a week later
Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is a standout in the category. Its 22oz size and active enzyme formula set it apart as the best homemade stain remover. This spray effectively tackles tough stains from food, drinks, and more. It clings to the stain, penetrating deeply to lift it away. Compared to other picks, this one offers a larger quantity, making it suitable for frequent use or larger households.
Unlike smaller options, Shout provides more stain-fighting power for the same effort. While it is a strong performer, some users may find that it requires a short wait time before washing. This could be a minor inconvenience for those needing immediate results.
Overall, Shout Triple-Acting is a reliable choice for anyone wanting effective stain removal. Its size and performance make it a top contender in the market.
Pros
- Active enzyme formula effectively tackles tough stains
- 22oz size offers great value for frequent users
- Clings to stains for deeper penetration
Cons
- Requires a brief wait time before washing
- May not be as effective on set-in stains without treatment
- Larger size may be cumbersome for some users
Best for: Families or heavy users. Not ideal for: Those needing quick, instant fixes.
A solid choice for tackling all types of stains with ease.
2. Runner-Up
Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray, Laundry Stain Remover, 4 Oz
- POWERFUL & FAST WORKING This lightning fast laundry stain remover spray is perfect for clothes, upholstery, and carpets.
- SAFER CHOICE CERTIFIED Our stain remover is proudly EPA Safer Choice certified, giving you peace of mind that it meets your high standards for health and safety. Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater formula gets the job done while being a safer choice for you and your family.
- WORKS MAGIC ON STAINS This stain remover for baby clothes is great for infants, toddlers, and adults and is effective on both fresh and set-in stains. Works on fruit juice, baby food, formula, ketchup, blowouts, and even blood.
- EASY TO USE: First, ditch the excess gunk and dampen dry stains with a splash of water. Spray on Miss Mouth’s, give it a little rub if needed, then toss it in the wash or clean as usual. Still see the stain? Hit repeat. Easy peasy.
Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is the runner-up in this category. This 4oz stain remover offers a powerful formula that works on clothes, upholstery, and carpets. Its fast-acting nature is designed to tackle stains quickly. Compared to Shout, this option is more portable and can easily fit in bags or purses. However, its smaller size means you may go through it more quickly.
This stain remover is also EPA Safer Choice certified. This certification assures users that it meets safety standards. However, while it’s effective for minor spills, it may struggle with tougher stains compared to larger or more concentrated options. Some users have reported needing multiple applications for persistent stains.
Overall, Miss Mouth’s is a great choice for quick cleanups on-the-go. Its compact design and safety certification make it appealing.
Pros
- Fast-acting formula for quick stain removal
- Portable 4oz size fits in bags easily
- EPA Safer Choice certified for safety
Cons
- Smaller size may run out quickly
- May require multiple applications for tough stains
- Less effective on set-in stains
Best for: Quick cleanups and portability. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty stain fighting.
A convenient option for on-the-go stain removal needs.
3. Best Lightweight
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
- 12 FL OZ OXICLEAN MAX FORCE STAIN REMOVER SPRAY; this newborn and baby essential helps parents power out tough set-in laundry stains the first time; spray now and wash up to 7 days later
- SPRAY NOW, WASH UP TO 7 DAYS LATER; this convenient baby stain remover spray penetrates tough laundry stains
- 5-IN-1 STAIN FIGHTERS help remove tough dried-in stains the first time, like berries, baby food, fruit juice, grass, mud, oil, grease, coffee, wine, chocolate, ketchup, blood, ink and washable paint
- TOUGH ON STAINS, GENTLE ON CLOTHES; this color-safe, enzymatic stain remover for baby clothes is a baby and newborn essential that contains no chlorine bleach, no brighteners, no dyes and no phosphates
- FOR ALL MACHINE-WASHABLE FABRICS; a powerful laundry stain remover for onesies, bibs, sheets, towels, denim jeans, t-shirts, workout gear, canvas shoes, dresses, bras; and washable fabrics like cotton, linen, spandex, fleece, polyester, nylon
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray is designed for tough stains. This 12 fl oz spray helps parents tackle set-in stains effectively. It can be sprayed and left for up to seven days before washing, a unique feature among the options. Compared to Shout, this one specializes in baby stains, providing targeted help for new parents facing common messes.
The 5-in-1 stain fighters work well on various stains, including food and drink. However, while it is effective, some users may find the smell somewhat strong for their preference. As a dedicated stain remover, it may not provide as much flexibility for general cleaning compared to other sprays.
Overall, OxiClean Max Force is a specialized choice for families with young children. Its targeted approach makes it a solid option for common household stains.
Pros
- Specialized for tough, set-in stains
- Spray and leave for up to 7 days
- 5-in-1 stain fighting capabilities
Cons
- Strong scent may not appeal to all users
- Not as flexible for general cleaning
- Smaller size limits extensive use
Best for: Parents dealing with baby stains. Not ideal for: General household cleaning.
A smart choice for parents needing to fight baby stains effectively.
4. Best Premium
Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover, 8.7oz, (1-Pack)
- What You’ll Get: One 8.7oz bottle of Shout Advanced Ultra Concentrated Stain Remover Gel with Built-in Scrubber Brush technology
- Tackling Tough Stains Easy: this super-concentrated thick laundry stain remover gel is made specifically to treat some of your toughest set-in stains from food, drinks, makeup, grass, dirt, red wine, blood, and more
- Household Staple: a great addition to your laundry supplies, this stain remover is tough on stains but gentle on fabric, available in a convenient bottle with a built-in laundry brush for stains that works the enzymes deep into the fabric fibers
- Quick & Easy To Use: works on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, and works in all water temperatures and in HE and standard washers
- Squeeze, Rub, Wash, Done: our formula let’s you treat stains and wash up to a week later
Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover is focused on tough stains. This 8.7oz gel has a built-in scrubber brush for extra cleaning power. It targets set-in stains effectively, making it the best premium choice in this group. Compared to other options, this gel is thicker, allowing for deeper penetration into stains for better results.
This unique feature makes it stand out against lighter sprays. However, the limitation is that it may require more effort to apply due to its gel consistency. Users need to scrub the stain, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Shout Advanced is a great option for those needing premium stain removal. Its advanced features and effectiveness make it worth considering for tough stains.
Pros
- Built-in scrubber brush for effective cleaning
- Thick gel penetrates tough stains deeply
- Specifically designed for set-in stains
Cons
- More effort needed for application
- Smaller size limits the number of uses
- Not as easy to use as sprays
Best for: Those dealing with tough, set-in stains. Not ideal for: Casual stain removal.
A powerful option for stubborn stains that need extra care.
5. Best Design
Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray, Laundry Stain Remover, 16 Oz
- POWERFUL & FAST WORKING This lightning fast laundry stain remover spray is perfect for clothes, upholstery, and carpets.
- SAFER CHOICE CERTIFIED Our stain remover is proudly EPA Safer Choice certified, giving you peace of mind that it meets your high standards for health and safety. Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater formula gets the job done while being a safer choice for you and your family.
- WORKS MAGIC ON STAINS This stain remover for baby clothes is great for infants, toddlers, and adults and is effective on both fresh and set-in stains. Works on fruit juice, baby food, formula, ketchup, blowouts, and even blood.
- EASY TO USE: First, ditch the excess gunk and dampen dry stains with a splash of water. Spray on Miss Mouth’s, give it a little rub if needed, then toss it in the wash or clean as usual. Still see the stain? Hit repeat. Easy peasy.
Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray (16 oz) expands on the smaller version. It offers the same fast-acting and portable formula, but with more product for longer use. This option is great for those needing a reliable cleaner for a variety of surfaces. Compared to the 4oz version, this option provides better value over time due to its size.
It remains EPA Safer Choice certified, keeping health and safety in mind. However, similar to its smaller sibling, it may struggle with the toughest stains. Users might find that it takes several attempts for stubborn marks.
Overall, this version is best for those wanting a balance between effectiveness and safety. Its larger size ensures you have enough for multiple uses.
Pros
- 16oz size offers better value and usability
- Fast-acting formula for various surfaces
- EPA Safer Choice certified for health safety
Cons
- May need multiple applications for tough stains
- Not as effective on set-in stains
- Larger size may be less convenient for some
Best for: Those needing versatility and value. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty stain removal.
A versatile choice that balances safety and effectiveness.
6. Best Compact
Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray, 22oz, (1-Pack)
- What You’ll Get: One 22oz spray bottle of Shout’s Advanced Laundry Stain Remover Gel. Bottle, excluding trigger & label, made of 25% Post Consumer Recycled plastic!
- Formulated for heavy duty stains: this thick gel stain remover is made specifically to treat difficult stains from food, drinks, makeup, grass, dirt, red wine, blood, and more
- Best Shout Formula: made with 70% more stain-fighting power compared to Shout Triple-Acting
- Quick & Easy To Use: works on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, and works in all water temperatures and in HE and standard washers
- Spray, Rub, Wash, and Done: our formula let’s you treat stains toughest stains and wash up to a week later
Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray is designed for heavy-duty cleaning. With a 22oz bottle size, it is perfect for tackling tough stains. This thicker gel formula works on various stains effectively, making it a great compact option. Compared to other picks, its large size is beneficial for regular users who need a reliable product.
While this product is powerful, some users might find that its thickness can make it difficult to spread evenly. This may require extra effort during application. Nonetheless, its effectiveness makes it a strong choice for consistent use.
Overall, Shout Advanced Gel is a solid option for anyone needing a dependable stain remover in a larger size.
Pros
- 22oz size is perfect for heavy-duty cleaning
- Thick gel is effective on tough stains
- Designed for various stain types
Cons
- Thick formula may be harder to spread
- Requires extra effort for application
- Not as portable as smaller options
Best for: Regular users needing a reliable stain remover. Not ideal for: Quick, portable solutions.
A dependable choice for those who require heavy-duty stain removal.
7. Best for Beginners
Tide Stain Remover for Clothes, Tide To Go Pen, Instant Stain Remover Pen & Spot Cleaner, Portable & Travel-Friendly, Works on Food & Drink Stains, Fits in…
- Tackle Fresh Stains on the Go: Don’t let food and drink spills ruin your day. This portable Tide stain remover pen lets you treat stains right away, before they set in and become a major headache. Keep this Tide to go pen wherever you need it most for stain emergencies. Brought to you by Nehemiah Manufacturing.
- Pocket-Sized Stain Rescue: This pocket-sized travel stain remover is small but mighty – fits easily in any bag or pocket. With this Tide stick to go you’re always prepared to handle unexpected spills on clothes, whether you’re at work, running errands, or enjoying a night out.
- Gentle on Clothes, Tough on Stains: No more worrying about harsh and damage with this no bleach pen for clothing. This gentle Tide stain remover stick effectively removes stains without harming your fabrics. Plus, it’s bleach-free, so you can use it with confidence on a variety of colored and delicate garments.
- Works on Many Food & Drinks: Spilled ketchup on your shirt? Coffee stain on your pants? This Tide pen stain remover tackles a wide range of fresh food and drink spills, including tomato juice, ketchup, BBQ sauce, grape juice, coffee, wine, tea, and chocolate syrup.
- Easy Stain Removal in 3 Steps: Treating stains is a breeze with this Tide to go stick. Simply blot up any excess residue, press the pen tip onto the stain to release the cleaning solution, and gently rub the stain with the microfiber pad. Repeat if needed for stubborn stains. No mess, no fuss, just clean clothes with this Tide pens.
Tide Stain Remover for Clothes, specifically the Tide To Go Pen, is a unique addition. This portable option is great for treating stains on-the-go. It fits easily in a bag, making it perfect for quick spills. Compared to larger sprays, this pen is more convenient for travel. However, its effectiveness is limited to fresh stains, making it less versatile than full-size sprays.
The compact design is excellent for emergencies but may not handle set-in stains effectively. Users should apply it immediately for the best results. While it is a dependable option, it is not intended for extensive cleaning or tough stains.
Overall, Tide To Go Pen is best for those needing a quick, portable solution for minor stains.
Pros
- Portable design fits easily in bags
- Effective on fresh stains
- Easy to use for quick cleanups
Cons
- Limited effectiveness on set-in stains
- Not suitable for larger cleaning jobs
- Requires immediate application for best results
Best for: Quick fixes while out and about. Not ideal for: Tough or set-in stains.
An excellent choice for those needing a portable stain solution.
8. Best Budget
Grandma's Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray – Chlorine, Bleach and Toxin-Free for Clothes – Fabric Stain Remover Removes Oil, Paint, Blood and Pet Stains -…
- ✅ HARSH ON STAINS NOT THE FABRIC: The toxin-free stain remover formula removes just the stains, not the beautiful color of your clothes. Our effective yet gentle stain remover for clothes does not contain bleaching agents or leave dirt-attracting residues, so spot remover should not harm your fabric. You can use Grandmas spot remover worry-free on your expensive investment.
- ✅ LAUNDRY STAIN REMOVER: This instant Grandmas stain remover is specifically formulated for the treatment of rust stains. Try fabric stain remover on those stains that have aged in, or ones that have gone through the washing machine already. The best part is that fabric cleaner is concentrated. The clothes stain remover formula has no bleach, chlorine or phosphates added & grandma stain remover leaves behind a pleasant citrus fragrance.
- ✅ EFFECTIVE: Grandma s secret spot remover can be used on blood, food stains, grass stains, pet stains, iodine, beverages (coffee, tea, wine, milk, cola, etc.), crayon, uncured latex paint, chocolate, raw egg, candle wax, heavy grime, ketchup, grease, oil stains, most shoe polishes, much more and the Grandma secret spot remover formula works in all water temperatures.
- ✅ BABY STAIN REMOVER: No matter how adorable the baby is, keeping your sweet cheeks clean is a challenge. The baby stain remover for laundry goes to work to remove everything from diaper leaks to your baby food mishaps.
- ✅ EASY TO USE: Spot remover for clothes keeps cleaning simple: just apply natural stain remover to the affected area, agitate, and blot up – it’s as simple as that! Stains are completely gone with clothes stain remover.
Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray is a budget-friendly option. This 16oz bottle is chlorine, bleach, and toxin-free, making it safe for various fabrics. It targets tough stains like oil and paint while being gentle on clothes. Compared to other budget options, it offers effective cleaning without harsh chemicals.
While it’s effective on many stains, some users have noted it may not work as well on set-in stains. This limitation can be a downside for those with persistent marks. its price point may attract those looking for affordable solutions, but those needing deeper cleaning might want to look elsewhere.
Overall, Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover is a great budget option for safe and effective stain removal.
Pros
- Toxin-free formula safe for many fabrics
- Effective on tough stains like oil and paint
- 16oz size offers good value
Cons
- May struggle with set-in stains
- Not as potent as premium options
- Limited to certain stain types
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty stain fighting.
A solid and safe choice for everyday stain removal.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
The following table compares the best homemade stain removers. Each column shows important details like size, special features, and suitability. If you want the best homemade stain remover, check the specifications in each row.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover… | Best Overall | SCJohnson | $3.48 | Check |
| 2 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Runner-Up | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Best Lightweight | Church & Dwight | $11.97 | Check |
| 4 | Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover | Best Premium | SCJohnson | $3.84 | Check |
| 5 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Best Design | Miss Mouth's | $27.99 | Check |
| 6 | Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray | Best Compact | SC Johnson | $4.98 | Check |
| 7 | Tide Stain Remover for Clothes | Best for Beginners | Nehemiah Manufacturing Company LLC | $8.97 | Check |
| 8 | Grandma's Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray | Best Budget | Grandma's Secret | $16.99 | Check |
| 9 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick | — | Church & Dwight | $3.99 | Check |
| 10 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater | — | Miss Mouth's | $15.94 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from reliable sources like product reviews, manufacturer websites, and customer feedback. This helped us create an accurate picture of each stain remover’s features and effectiveness.
How we built this shortlist
Our team reviewed over 30 stain removers based on factors like ingredients, effectiveness, and user ratings. We focused on products that are popular and well-reviewed, ensuring a solid selection.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that had low user ratings or poor reviews. If a stain remover didn’t get positive feedback from customers, it didn’t make our list. We also ruled out items with harmful chemicals.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and we did not conduct lab measurements. Our choices are based solely on available data and consumer feedback, avoiding any subjective scoring.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated quarterly to ensure all information stays current. We check for new products and any changes to existing ones, so you always have the latest details.
How to Choose Stain Removers
Check the size
When picking a stain remover, consider the size of the bottle. Larger bottles, like 22oz, are great for families or heavy use. Smaller sizes, such as 4oz, are better for on-the-go needs but may run out quickly.
Look for enzyme formulas
Enzyme-based stain removers are often more effective on tough stains. They break down stains like food and blood, making cleaning easier. Check the label for ingredients to ensure it contains enzymes.
Consider safety certifications
Stain removers certified by organizations like EPA Safer Choice are safer for your home. These certifications mean the product meets strict health and safety standards. Look for these certifications when choosing a product.
Read reviews
Customer reviews provide insight into how well a stain remover works. Look for products with high ratings and positive feedback from users. Avoid items with too many complaints about performance.
Examine stain types
Different stain removers work better on certain stains. Some are designed for food and drink stains, while others handle oil or ink. Check the product description to see what types of stains it targets.
What to look for
Ease of Use
Stain removers should be easy to apply. Look for sprays or gels that can be used directly on stains. Products with built-in scrubbers can help with tough stains, making them user-friendly.
Effectiveness on Set-In Stains
Many stains can set in over time, making them difficult to remove. Consider products designed specifically for set-in stains. These often contain stronger formulas to tackle tough spots that have been there for a while.
Ingredients
Ensure the stain remover is free from harsh chemicals if safety is a concern. Look for plant-based or biodegradable ingredients. This will help protect your fabrics and the environment.
Versatility
A good stain remover should work on various fabrics and surfaces. Products that can clean clothes, carpets, and upholstery are more valuable. Check the label for details on what surfaces it can be used on.
Portability
For those on the go, portable stain removers are a must. Smaller bottles or pens can fit in bags or purses. If you travel often, consider a product that is compact and easy to carry.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best homemade stain remover?
The best homemade stain remover is Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It effectively tackles tough stains and comes in a 22oz spray bottle.
Are enzyme stain removers better?
Yes, enzyme stain removers are often better for tough stains. They break down proteins and other substances, making it easier to clean.
Can stain removers be used on all fabrics?
Not all stain removers are safe for all fabrics. Always check the label to ensure it is suitable for your specific fabric.
How do I apply stain remover?
Spray or apply the stain remover directly onto the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing it out. Follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results.
Are there any natural stain removers?
Yes, many natural stain removers use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice. These can effectively clean stains without harsh chemicals.
Shopping around? We have 36 more stain remover guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR clothes dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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