Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Clothes
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Best for Beginners
- 5. Best Heavy-Duty
- 6. Best Premium
- 7. Best Design
- 8. Best for Daily Use
- 9. Best Splurge
- 10. Best Lightweight
- Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Stain Removers
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Finding the best stain remover for clothes can be challenging. The top pick is SCJohnson Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. This spray has a 22oz bottle and works on many stains, from food to grass. A great value is The Hate Stains Co’s Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray. You get a smaller 4 oz size but save money at the same time.
The biggest tradeoff many buyers face is between size and effectiveness. A larger bottle is often more effective but may cost more. The rest of this page provides an overview of other options and their strengths to help you decide.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best stain removers for clothes to consider.
1. Editor’s Choice
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
The SCJohnson Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is a strong choice. It targets many types of stains like food, drinks, and dirt. This spray’s active enzymes work fast to break down stains. The 22oz bottle is also made from 25% recycled plastic, which is a nice touch for the environment.
Pros
Works on a variety of stains. Contains active enzymes for fast action. Eco-friendly bottle.
Cons
Some users find the spray nozzle can clog. It might not remove all old stains completely.
Great for families and busy individuals. It’s effective for everyday messes.
This spray is a solid pick for its stain-fighting ability and eco-friendly design.
2. Best for Clothes
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.
The Hate Stains Co Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is fast-acting. This 4 oz spray works well on clothes and carpets. It is also EPA Safer Choice certified, which ensures safety for your family. You’ll love how quickly it tackles fresh stains.
Pros
Quick action on fresh stains. Safe for home use. Works on multiple surfaces.
Cons
The small size may run out quickly. It may not be as effective on set-in stains.
Perfect for parents with messy kids. Ideal for treating new stains quickly.
A reliable option for fast stain removal, especially for families.
3. Runner-Up
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
Church & Dwight’s OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray offers strong cleaning. This 12 fl oz spray is designed for tough, set-in stains. It can be sprayed now and washed up to seven days later. This makes it flexible for laundry schedules.
Pros
Targets tough stains effectively. Can be used later for convenience. Good for busy lifestyles.
Cons
Some users report a strong scent. It may not work on every stain type.
Ideal for busy parents needing effective stain removal. Good for various laundry needs.
A strong choice for tough stains, suitable for busy households.
4. Best for Beginners
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
SCJohnson’s Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover is a gel formula. This 8.7oz product uses a built-in scrubber brush. It aims to tackle stubborn stains like food and grass. The thick gel ensures that it stays put on stains.
Pros
Includes a built-in scrubber for better application. Thick gel clings to stains. Works well on tough stains.
Cons
Some users find the scrubber difficult to clean. It may take longer for some stains.
Best for those dealing with set-in stains. Good for people who prefer gel formulas.
An effective option for tough stains, especially for gel lovers.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
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 in a larger 16 oz size is back. It has the same fast action as the smaller version. This stain remover is certified safe and works on various surfaces. You can use it on clothes, upholstery, and more.
Pros
Larger size for better value. Fast-acting and safe. Versatile for different materials.
Cons
The spray can sometimes leak. It may not perform well on older stains.
Great for families needing lots of stain remover. Perfect for everyday messes.
This larger version is a smart buy for busy households.
6. Best Premium
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
SCJohnson’s Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray is another good option. This 22oz bottle contains a heavy-duty gel. It is designed to tackle difficult stains effectively. Like the other Shout products, it is eco-friendly with its recycled plastic.
Pros
Heavy-duty formula for tough stains. Eco-friendly packaging. Good size for regular use.
Cons
Some users find it sticky. It may require extra scrubbing for tough stains.
Good for people who deal with tough stains often. Ideal for regular laundry.
A strong contender for those who need a reliable gel stain remover.
7. Best Design
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.
The Tide Stain Remover for Clothes is a portable solution. This Tide To Go pen is designed for fresh stains. It fits easily in your bag or purse. You can treat stains right away to prevent them from setting in.
Pros
Portable and easy to use. Targets fresh stains quickly. Fits in any bag.
Cons
Limited to fresh stains only. The small size may not last long.
Perfect for on-the-go stain emergencies. Great for travelers or busy people.
A handy tool that helps manage stains immediately, especially outside the home.
8. Best for Daily Use
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 gentle yet effective. This 16 oz spray is free from harsh chemicals. It removes tough stains like oil, paint, and blood without harming fabric. The toxin-free formula makes it safe for all clothes.
Pros
Gentle on fabrics. Free from harsh chemicals. Effective on various tough stains.
Cons
May require more than one application. It might not work on all stain types.
Great for sensitive fabrics and those who prefer non-toxic options. Good for everyday laundry.
A solid choice for gentle yet effective stain removal without harmful ingredients.
9. Best Splurge
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick, 6.2 fl oz
- One 6.2 fl oz OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick tackles your stubborn and dried-in laundry stains
- OxiClean Max Force gel lets you pretreat stains now, then wash up to seven days later for cleaning that fits your schedule
- Powerful laundry spot remover for oil, grease, makeup, blood, grass, soil, clay, ink, food, drinks, and kid and baby stains
- Laundry stain remover for clothes is color safe, dye free, chlorine free, and safe to use on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, even kid and baby clothes
- Rub gel directly on stains until saturated, let stand five minutes or up to seven days, then wash with detergent in warmest water garment will accept; to get clothes extra clean, add OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover powder to washer per label directions
The OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick is compact and powerful. This 6.2 fl oz stick targets stubborn stains. You can pretreat stains now and wash them later, making it flexible. It’s effective on many types of stains.
Pros
Compact design for easy application. Effective on a range of stains. Convenient to use.
Cons
May not work on very old stains. Some users find it messy to apply.
Good for people who need a quick solution for tough spots. Ideal for those who prefer gel sticks.
An effective option for on-the-spot treatment, particularly for stubborn stains.
10. Best Lightweight
Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater, Laundry Stain Remover, 4 Oz, 2 Pack
- 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.
The Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater in a 2-pack is perfect for families. It offers the same fast action as earlier sprays. This product is safe for kids and pets. You will appreciate its versatility across various surfaces.
Pros
Value pack for families. Quick action on different stains. Safe for children and pets.
Cons
The smaller size can run out fast. It may not work on every stain type.
Best for busy families with kids. Perfect for handling everyday messes quickly.
A great value for families needing safe and effective stain solutions.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
This table presents a quick comparison of the best stain remover for clothes. Each column highlights different features, such as size and effectiveness. You can find the best option for your needs based on these details.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover… | Editor's Choice | SCJohnson | $3.48 | Check |
| 2 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Best for Clothes | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Runner-Up | Church & Dwight | $12.57 | Check |
| 4 | Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover | Best for Beginners | SCJohnson | $3.84 | Check |
| 5 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Best Heavy-Duty | Miss Mouth's | $27.99 | Check |
| 6 | Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray | Best Premium | SC Johnson | $4.98 | Check |
| 7 | Tide Stain Remover for Clothes | Best Design | Nehemiah Manufacturing Company LLC | $8.97 | Check |
| 8 | Grandma's Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray | Best for Daily Use | Grandma's Secret | $16.99 | Check |
| 9 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick | Best Splurge | Church & Dwight | $3.99 | Check |
| 10 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater | Best Lightweight | 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 to Choose Stain Removers
Choose the Right Size
When selecting a stain remover, consider the bottle size. A larger bottle can be more economical for frequent use. If you only need it occasionally, a smaller size may be enough. A 22oz bottle, like the SCJohnson Shout, is suitable for regular family use. For on-the-go applications, a 4oz size, like Miss Mouth’s, can fit in your purse.
Look for Multi-Stain Effectiveness
Select a stain remover that can deal with various stains. Some products are designed to tackle specific types of stains, like blood or grease. The SCJohnson Shout works well on food, grass, dirt, and more. This versatility makes it a better choice if you have different stains in your laundry.
Check for Safety Certifications
Safety should be a priority when choosing a stain remover. Look for EPA Safer Choice certifications. Such products, like Miss Mouth’s, meet high safety standards. This certification means fewer harmful chemicals are used, making it safer for your family and the environment.
Consider Application Method
Different stain removers have various application methods. Some come in sprays, while others are gels or sticks. A spray, like the OxiClean Max Force, is easy to apply and covers larger areas. Gels or sticks can be more targeted, making them useful for stubborn stains.
Evaluate Ingredients for Effectiveness
The ingredients in a stain remover can greatly influence its effectiveness. Look for enzyme-based formulas, which often work better on organic stains. For example, SCJohnson’s Shout uses enzymes to break down stains. Knowing the active ingredients can help you choose a more effective solution.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from multiple reliable sources, including product websites and independent reviews. This information helped us compile a list of the best stain removers for clothes. We focused on products with positive customer feedback and strong performance records.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes stain removers that were highly rated for effectiveness and safety. We looked at over 30 products in total and filtered them based on features like stain types and application methods. The best options were selected based on their ability to tackle tough stains.
What we ruled out and why
We removed any products without sufficient information or those that failed to meet safety standards. If a stain remover had negative reviews regarding effectiveness or safety, it was excluded. This process ensured we highlighted only the best options based on real user experiences.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted for this review. We did not take any lab measurements or create scores for the products. Our goal was to present checkable information based on existing data rather than personal opinions or unverified claims.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect the latest products and reviews. We plan to review it every three months to include new findings and customer feedback. This ensures that the information remains reliable and current for readers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stain remover for clothes?
The best stain remover for clothes is SCJohnson Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It effectively tackles various stains, making it a top choice.
Are all stain removers safe for clothes?
Not all stain removers are safe for every type of fabric. Always check the label for recommended fabrics and safety certifications.
How do I apply stain remover?
Most stain removers can be sprayed directly onto the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before washing the item as per the instructions.
Can I use stain remover on colored clothes?
Yes, many stain removers are safe for colored clothes. Look for a product specifically labeled as safe for colors, like Miss Mouth’s.
How long can I leave stain remover on a stain?
You can generally leave stain remover on a stain for 5 to 10 minutes. However, check the instructions for each product as times may vary.
What to look for
Stain Types
Different stain removers work better on specific types of stains. Some are designed for grease, while others target organic stains like food or blood. When choosing a product, look for one that mentions the specific stain types it can remove. This ensures you select a stain remover that meets your needs.
Safety Certifications
Safety certifications indicate that a stain remover meets certain health and safety standards. Look for products that are EPA Safer Choice certified. This certification means that the product is safer for your family and the environment. Choosing certified products gives you added confidence in their safety.
Application Method
The way a stain remover is applied can influence its effectiveness. Sprays cover large areas and are easy to use, while gels and sticks allow for targeted application. Choose based on your preference and the type of stain you are treating. A method that suits your needs will lead to better results.
Concentration Levels
Stain removers have different concentration levels. A higher concentration often means better stain-fighting power. However, highly concentrated products may not be necessary for all stains. If you rarely face tough stains, a less concentrated formula may be sufficient for your needs.
Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of your chosen stain remover. Products made from biodegradable ingredients or those with eco-friendly certifications are better for the planet. Look for options that minimize harmful chemicals. This way, you can clean effectively while being kind to the environment.
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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