Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best for Colored Clothes
- 3. Best for Small Spaces
- 4. Best for Daily Use
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best for Beginners
- 7. Best Lightweight
- 8. Best Heavy-Duty
- Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Stain Removers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best stain remover for colored clothes can be tricky. The top pick is SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. This option is a powerful 22oz spray that works on many stains like food and grass. For a budget-friendly choice, consider The Hate Stains Co’s Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray in 4oz. This smaller size saves money but may require more frequent purchases.
Many buyers face the choice between a large bottle that lasts longer and a smaller, more portable option. This guide will help you understand the best choices available in the market.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
This article reviews the top stain removers designed specifically for colored clothes. Each option has unique features to help you tackle various stains.
1. Top Pick
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
SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is our top pick. This 22oz spray features a formula that targets food, drink, and dirt stains. It clings to stains, penetrating deeply for effective removal. Compared to others, it stands out with its size and versatility. It can also handle a wide variety of stains, making it useful for different situations. One limitation is that it may require a little extra time to work on set-in stains, which could be frustrating for some users.
When compared to The Hate Stains Co’s Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater, Shout offers a larger size and a broader range of stains it can tackle. Miss Mouth’s spray is smaller and focuses on quick, effective cleaning but may not work as well for tough stains. Shout is the better all-around option for families with various stain needs.
Ultimately, Shout offers convenience and effectiveness, but users should consider if they prefer quicker options for immediate stains. Its design and effectiveness make it a must-have for any household.
Pros
- 22oz size is great for multiple uses
- Effective against a variety of stains
- Clings and penetrates stains for deep cleaning
Cons
- May need time to work on set-in stains
- Not portable for on-the-go use
- Requires multiple applications for tough stains
Best for: Families needing a versatile stain remover. Not ideal for: Those wanting a quick fix on the go.
An effective choice for various stain challenges.
2. Best for Colored 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’s Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is our budget-friendly pick. This 4oz spray is designed for quick use, making it ideal for stains on clothes or carpets. It is a safe option, being EPA Safer Choice certified. While effective in immediate situations, it may not handle set-in stains as well as larger options.
In comparison with SCJohnson’s Shout, Miss Mouth’s spray is more portable and easy to use for quick spills. However, Shout offers a larger size and deeper cleaning capabilities. Users may find Miss Mouth’s size limiting if they have many stains to tackle or need something long-lasting.
Although it may not be the top option for heavy-duty cleaning, this stain treater is perfect for on-the-go use. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for something quick and easy without compromising safety.
Pros
- Portable 4oz size for easy transport
- Safer Choice certified for safe use
- Quick-action formula for immediate stains
Cons
- Limited size may require frequent repurchases
- Not as effective on set-in stains
- Can run out quickly with heavy use
Best for: Quick fixes on the go. Not ideal for: Large or set-in stains.
Perfect for tackling stains immediately when time is critical.
3. Best for Small Spaces
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 is designed for tough stains. This 12oz spray is a great option for those needing serious cleaning power. It penetrates set-in stains and offers a 5-in-1 stain-fighting approach. OxiClean effectively tackles various stains from food to dirt, making it versatile.
Compared to other products, like Shout, OxiClean delivers similar versatility but focuses more on set-in stains. Users may find OxiClean more effective for heavily soiled clothes. However, it may not be as portable as smaller options like Miss Mouth’s spray.
A limitation is that it may require multiple applications for very challenging stains. OxiClean is best for those who regularly deal with stubborn stains and need a powerful solution. It works well for families with kids or pets.
Pros
- 5-in-1 stain-fighting capability
- Penetrates set-in stains effectively
- Convenient 12oz size for storage
Cons
- May require multiple applications for tough stains
- Not as portable as smaller sprays
- Might not work as well on lighter stains
Best for: Families dealing with tough, set-in stains. Not ideal for: Quick, everyday stains.
A very effective solution for challenging stains.
4. Best for Daily Use
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 that packs a powerful punch. With an 8.7oz bottle, it features a built-in scrubber brush for tough stains. This design helps you directly target stains with ease. Compared to spray options, this gel is thicker and more concentrated, offering better adhesion to stubborn stains.
When compared to OxiClean, Shout Advanced is more user-friendly for direct application. However, it may be less versatile for larger stains or wider areas since it focuses on precision. Users must apply it carefully for the best results.
A downside is that it might take longer to treat larger or multiple stains, as it focuses on specific spots. This makes it better suited for those who need targeted cleaning rather than a quick spray. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to tackle tough stains effectively.
Pros
- Built-in scrubber brush for easy application
- Thick gel clings to stains for better cleaning
- Highly effective for set-in stains
Cons
- Less versatile for larger areas
- Requires careful application for best results
- Might not be suitable for quick cleanups
Best for: Targeting tough set-in stains. Not ideal for: Quick or broad cleaning needs.
Great for those who need precision in stain removal.
5. Best Premium
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 larger 16oz Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is a powerful option. It delivers fast action against stains on clothes and upholstery. This version builds on its smaller counterpart by providing more product for larger messes. It is also EPA Safer Choice certified, ensuring safety for users.
When comparing it to the smaller 4oz version, the larger size offers better value for frequent users. However, it may still not be as effective against tough set-in stains as some thicker gels. Users needing quick, effective cleaning will appreciate the convenience without compromising safety.
One limitation is that while it is great for everyday stains, it may need additional applications for tougher stains. This makes it better for those dealing with light to moderate messes rather than heavy-duty tasks.
Pros
- 16oz size offers more product for common stains
- Quick action formula for effective cleaning
- Safer Choice certified for health and safety
Cons
- May require multiple applications for difficult stains
- Not as effective on set-in stains as gels
- Still limited in capacity for heavy-duty cleaning
Best for: Frequent users needing a bit more product. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty or tough stains.
A solid choice for everyday cleaning needs.
6. Best for Beginners
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 a strong player in the market. This 22oz bottle of thick gel is designed for heavy-duty stains, like food and makeup. It offers a concentrated solution for those who need a powerful option. Compared to other versions, like the regular Shout, this gel is thicker and provides deeper penetration.
While it competes well with OxiClean, Shout Advanced focuses on ease of use and effectiveness on various stains. Some users may prefer this gel for its direct application. A notable limitation is that it may not work as quickly on lighter stains. Users seeking immediate results might find it less favorable than sprays designed for quick action.
Overall, this gel is a fantastic choice for those needing a thicker, more effective stain remover for various types of stains. Its size and effectiveness make it a valuable addition to any household.
Pros
- Thick gel penetrates heavy-duty stains
- 22oz size is suitable for multiple uses
- Effective on various types of stains
Cons
- May not work as fast on lighter stains
- Not as portable as smaller options
- Requires careful application for best results
Best for: Households needing a powerful stain remover. Not ideal for: Quick fixes on the go.
A great choice for those who need effective stain removal.
7. Best Lightweight
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.
Nehemiah Manufacturing’s Tide Stain Remover for Clothes is designed for portability. This Tide to Go pen is perfect for treating fresh stains immediately. Its small size allows you to carry it in your bag for quick access. Compared to larger options, this pen is ultra-convenient for on-the-spot cleaning.
However, it does not match the stain-fighting power of gel or spray options like Shout. Users may find it less effective on tough stains that need deeper cleaning. The Tide pen is ideal for light spills and stains but falls short for more significant messes.
One limitation is that it’s not suitable for set-in stains. It’s best used as a pre-treatment before washing. If you regularly deal with immediate stains, this pen is a handy little tool to have on hand.
Pros
- Portable design fits in purses and bags
- Quick action for treating fresh stains
- Easy to use on the go
Cons
- Not effective on set-in stains
- Limited capacity for multiple uses
- May not work on tough stains
Best for: On-the-go stain removal. Not ideal for: Stains that have set in.
Ideal for quick fixes during busy days.
8. Best Heavy-Duty
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 is a heavy-duty stain remover. This 16oz product is chlorine, bleach, and toxin-free, making it gentle on colored fabrics. It tackles tough stains like oil and paint while being safe for colors. Compared to other heavy-duty options, it offers a safer alternative without harsh chemicals.
While it stands out for its safety features, it may not perform as well on everyday stains compared to others like OxiClean. Users might find it less effective for lighter stains or more common spills. A limitation is its effectiveness can vary based on the type of fabric. It’s excellent for heavy-duty scenarios but may not be the first choice for everyday use.
This product is best suited for those needing a powerful stain remover without risking their fabric colors. It combines safety with effectiveness for various tough stains.
Pros
- Toxin-free formula is safe for colors
- Effective against tough stains like oil and paint
- Gentle on fabric while removing stains
Cons
- May not work as effectively on everyday stains
- Effectiveness can vary based on fabric type
- Less convenient for quick stain treatment
Best for: Heavy-duty stain removal. Not ideal for: Everyday stains and quick fixes.
A safe and powerful option for tough stains.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below outlines each stain remover’s key features, size, and effectiveness. Check the columns to find the best stain remover for colored clothes that fits your needs, whether you prioritize size or stain-fighting power.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover… | Top Pick | SCJohnson | $3.48 | Check |
| 2 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Best for Colored Clothes | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Best for Small Spaces | Church & Dwight | $12.57 | Check |
| 4 | Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber Laundry Stain Remover | Best for Daily Use | SCJohnson | $3.84 | Check |
| 5 | Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray | Best Premium | Miss Mouth's | $27.99 | Check |
| 6 | Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray | Best for Beginners | SC Johnson | $4.98 | Check |
| 7 | Tide Stain Remover for Clothes | Best Lightweight | Nehemiah Manufacturing Company LLC | $8.97 | Check |
| 8 | Grandma's Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray | Best Heavy-Duty | 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 data from various reliable sources, including customer reviews on Amazon, manufacturer specifications, and expert recommendations. This research included over 40 different stain removers suited for colored clothes.
How we built this shortlist
From our research, we focused on stain removers with strong customer ratings and features that cater to colored clothing. We looked for products that are safe for colors and effective against common stains.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that did not meet safety certifications, like EPA Safer Choice. Items with poor user reviews or unreliable performance for colored fabrics were also removed from consideration.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or measured in a lab. All evaluations were based on published specs, user feedback, and expert opinions. We did not assign any scores to products.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect the latest products and trends in stain removers. We will review the content every three months or sooner if significant new products arise.
How to Choose Stain Removers
Choose a Safe Formula
Select stain removers that are safe for colors. Look for labels like EPA Safer Choice. This means they meet safety and health standards. Avoid products with bleach, as it can fade colors.
Consider the Size
Think about how much stain remover you need based on your usage. If you have many stains to tackle, a larger bottle will offer better value. Smaller bottles are great for travel or quick fixes.
Look for Specific Stain Solutions
Different stains require different treatments. Check the product details to see which stains each remover works on. For example, some are better at handling food stains, while others tackle dirt or grass.
Evaluate Application Method
Consider how you prefer to apply the stain remover. Spray bottles are easy to use but may require more effort on tough stains. Gel options can cling to stains better and give targeted treatment.
Check Customer Reviews
Look at customer feedback to see how well the product works for others. Reviews can highlight real-life experiences, showing whether a stain remover lives up to its claims for colored clothes.
What to look for
Stain Removal Effectiveness
The ability to remove stains effectively is the main factor to consider. Different stain removers target various types of stains. Look for products that have proven success with food, drinks, and dirt.
Fabric Safety
Ensure the stain remover is safe for your fabric types. Some formulas may contain harsh chemicals that can damage colored clothes. Always check for labels indicating safe use on colors and fragile fabrics.
Ease of Use
Consider how easy it is to apply the stain remover. Spray bottles generally offer more convenience for quick treatments. However, gel formulas may provide better adhesion to tough stains.
Eco-Friendliness
If you care about the environment, choose stain removers that are eco-friendly. Look for products made with recycled materials or certified by organizations like the EPA. These options are safer for the planet.
Price and Value
Evaluate the price in relation to the size and effectiveness. A lower price might not always mean better value. Compare how many ounces you get and how well each product works to decide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stain remover for colored clothes?
The best stain remover for colored clothes is SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It works on various stains while being safe for colors.
Can I use stain removers on all fabrics?
Not all stain removers are safe for every fabric. Always read the label to ensure the product works on your specific fabric type.
How do I apply stain remover?
Spray the stain remover directly on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash it out with your usual detergent. Always test a small area first.
Are there eco-friendly options for stain removers?
Yes, many brands offer eco-friendly stain removers. Look for products labeled as EPA Safer Choice for safer environmental impact.
How do I choose the right stain remover?
Consider factors like the type of stains you commonly encounter, the fabric you are treating, and whether you prefer a spray or gel formula.
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