Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Old Stains
- 3. Best Design
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best Value
- 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
You want the best stain remover for old stains, but it can be hard to choose. The top pick is SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It has a 22oz bottle that uses enzymes to break down tough stains. For value, consider The Hate Stains Co’s Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray. You get a smaller 4oz bottle, so you’ll be saving space but may not tackle larger stains as effectively.
Many buyers decide between picking a larger bottle for daily use or a smaller one for occasional stains. This guide will help you weigh the options and find the right stain remover for your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
Below is a closer look at each product to help you choose.
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
SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is an excellent choice for tough stains. It contains active enzymes that attack stains, making them easier to remove. Its 22oz size provides ample product for treating multiple stains. Compared to other options, this one effectively works on many stains, including food, dirt, and more. However, some users have mentioned that it may not completely remove very old or set-in stains on the first try. This product is best for regular stain treatment and offers great value for everyday use.
Pros
- 22oz bottle offers ample amount for multiple uses
- Contains active enzymes for effective stain breakdown
- Works on many stains, including food and dirt
- Made from 25% post-consumer recycled plastic
Cons
- May not completely remove very old stains on the first try
- Spray nozzle may clog after frequent use
Best for: Regular use on tough stains. Not ideal for: Users needing to treat very old stains in one go.
A powerful stain remover for everyday challenges.
2. Best for Old Stains
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 stands out for its quick action on stains. It is a 4oz bottle, perfect for treating specific stains fast. This size is great for on-the-go cleaning, especially for kids’ spills. However, its smaller size means you may need multiple bottles for larger cleaning tasks. Compared to others like Shout, this product excels in portability. Its Safer Choice certification shows it’s safe for your family. Still, it may not tackle deep-set stains like others do.
Pros
- Quick-acting formula for immediate stain treatment
- Safer Choice certified for family safety
- Portable 4oz size fits easily in bags
- Works on multiple surfaces including upholstery and carpets
Cons
- Larger cleaning tasks may require multiple bottles
- May not be as effective on deep-set stains
Best for: Quick clean-ups and portability. Not ideal for: Large stains or regular home use.
A convenient choice for fast and safe stain removal.
3. Best Design
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 performance for tough stains. It comes in a 12oz bottle, allowing you to tackle multiple stains effectively. This spray can penetrate deep into fabrics, making it suitable for set-in stains. Compared to other options, its 5-in-1 formula addresses various stain types, including baby-related messes. However, users may find that the 12oz size runs out quickly with frequent use. It is an excellent pick for parents managing stubborn baby stains with confidence.
Pros
- 12oz bottle designed for tough, set-in stains
- 5-in-1 formula for various stain types
- Can be used up to 7 days after application
- Great for baby-related laundry challenges
Cons
- 12oz size may require frequent repurchasing
- Not ideal for quick, light stains
Best for: Parents dealing with tough baby stains. Not ideal for: Those needing a quick solution for light stains.
Ideal for parents tackling tough baby-related stains.
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
SCJohnson’s Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber is a powerful gel designed for tough stains. The 8.7oz bottle comes with a built-in scrubber, making application easy. This product excels at treating set-in stains, thanks to its thick gel formula. While it performs better on tough stains compared to sprays, the smaller size may not be sufficient for heavy-duty cleaning. This option is great if you need precision application for specific stains. However, it may not cover larger areas as effectively as other sprays.
Pros
- Built-in scrubber for easy application
- Thick gel formula penetrates set-in stains
- 8.7oz size is suitable for targeted treatment
- Great for tough stains from food and drinks
Cons
- Smaller size may not last for heavy-duty use
- Less effective for larger stain areas
Best for: Precision application on tough stains. Not ideal for: Users needing to cover large areas.
A powerful gel for tackling tough stains with precision.
5. Best Value
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 16oz bottle is designed for families. Its fast-acting formula works well on various surfaces, including upholstery. Compared to the 4oz version, this larger size offers better value for regular use. However, while it is effective on many stains, it may struggle with very old, set-in stains that require more powerful treatments. This product is perfect for households needing a reliable solution for everyday stains without harsh chemicals.
Pros
- 16oz size offers good value for families
- Fast-acting formula works on multiple surfaces
- Safer Choice certified for safety
- Ideal for everyday messes and spills
Cons
- May not work as effectively on very old stains
- Larger size can be bulky for travel
Best for: Families handling everyday stains. Not ideal for: Users seeking to treat old, set-in stains.
A reliable choice for families dealing with daily messes.
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 combines convenience with effectiveness. The 22oz bottle is designed for heavy-duty stains, making it an excellent choice for frequent users. Its gel formula allows for targeted cleaning and quick application. While it excels in removing various stains, it might not be as effective on older stains compared to more specialized products. This option is great for those who want a sturdy solution but may not handle very deep stains as well as others.
Pros
- 22oz bottle for frequent use
- Gel formula allows for targeted cleaning
- Formulated for heavy-duty stains
- Works on a variety of stains effectively
Cons
- May not be as effective on old stains
- Bulky size may be less convenient for travel
Best for: Frequent users tackling heavy-duty stains. Not ideal for: Users focused on very old stains.
A sturdy solution for tackling frequent stains with ease.
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 To Go Pen is designed for quick, on-the-go stain treatment. The pen format allows you to treat stains immediately, making it perfect for travel or busy lifestyles. While it is convenient, it may not be the best choice for old, set-in stains that need more time and effort to treat. In comparison to other products, its portability is a significant advantage. However, it may not provide the thorough cleaning needed for deeper stains.
Pros
- Portable pen design for travel
- Quick application for fresh stains
- Fits easily in purses and bags
- Ideal for tackling spills on the spot
Cons
- Not suitable for old, set-in stains
- Limited amount of product per pen
Best for: Travelers handling fresh stains. Not ideal for: Deep stains or old marks.
A convenient solution for treating spills on the go.
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 offers a toxin-free option for stain treatment. The 16oz bottle is designed to tackle tough stains like oil and paint. Compared to others, its gentle formula is safe for fabrics while being effective. However, it may not work as quickly as some chemical options. This product stands out for its safety and eco-friendliness, making it a great choice for households with sensitive users. It might not be the best for everyone, especially those with very tough, set-in stains.
Pros
- Toxin-free formula safe for fabrics
- Effective on tough stains like oil and paint
- Gentle on colors without bleaching
- 16oz size is suitable for households
Cons
- May not be as fast-acting as chemical options
- Effectiveness on very old stains may vary
Best for: Eco-conscious users needing effective stain treatment. Not ideal for: Users looking for fast results on deep stains.
A safe and effective option for tackling tough stains with care.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best stain remover for old stains. It shows the brand, size, and key features of each product. If you have tough, set-in stains, focus on the first few rows.
| # | 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 Old Stains | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Best Design | Church & Dwight | $12.57 | 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 Value | 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 information from multiple trusted sources. These include product websites, customer reviews, and expert opinions. We looked at over 30 stain removers to find the best options.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on stain removers specifically formulated for old stains. We filtered products based on user ratings, effectiveness, and safety certifications. Only the top-rated products made the final list.
What we ruled out and why
We eliminated products without clear safety certifications or poor user reviews. Any stain remover lacking specific claims for fighting old stains was also excluded. Roughly 15 products were removed during this process.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We only relied on data from user reviews and expert sources. All scores and rankings are based on this data.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every few months. New products will be added, and any outdated items will be removed. We aim to keep the recommendations fresh and relevant.
How to Choose Stain Removers
Understand Stain Types
Different stains require different treatments. For old stains, look for products that mention enzymes. Enzymes help break down tough marks like food and grease, making them easier to remove.
Consider Size and Packaging
Think about how often you will use the stain remover. If you have many stains to treat, larger bottles are better. If you only need it occasionally, smaller sizes may work just fine.
Check for Safety Certifications
Look for products that have safety certifications. EPA Safer Choice or similar labels show that the product is safe for both your family and the environment. This is especially important for homes with kids or pets.
Evaluate Application Methods
Some stain removers come as sprays, while others are gels or pens. Sprays cover large areas easily, while gels may provide better control for targeted spots. Choose based on your cleaning style.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews give insight into how well a product works. Check for mentions of old stains specifically. Look for consistent feedback about effectiveness and ease of use.
What to look for
Enzyme Power
Enzymes break down tough stains by attacking them at a molecular level. Look for products that mention enzyme ingredients. They are especially useful for food, blood, and grass stains that have set in over time.
Size and Coverage
The size of the bottle matters. Larger bottles often have more value, but smaller bottles are easier to store. If you frequently deal with stains, a bigger size can save you time and effort.
Safety Certification
Safety certifications ensure the product is safe for your family. Products with EPA Safer Choice certification meet health and safety standards. Always check for these labels to ensure safe use around children and pets.
Application Type
Different stain removers come in various forms. Sprays are ideal for covering large areas, while gels allow for precision. Pens are great for on-the-go cleaning. Choose based on how you plan to treat stains.
Stain Versatility
Some products work better on specific stains. A versatile stain remover can handle multiple types of stains, like food, blood, and wine. Look for products that mention their effectiveness on old, set-in stains.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stain remover for old stains?
The best stain remover for old stains is SCJohnson’s Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It uses enzymes to break down tough stains effectively.
How do I use a stain remover?
First, apply the stain remover directly on the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wash the item according to its care instructions.
Are stain removers safe for all fabrics?
Not all stain removers are safe for every fabric. Always check the label for fabric compatibility. Test on a small area first to avoid damage.
How long should I let the stain remover sit?
Most stain removers should sit for at least 5-10 minutes. Check the instructions on the product label for specific recommendations.
Can I use stain removers on carpets?
Yes, many stain removers can be used on carpets. Check the product label to ensure it is safe for carpets. Always test a small area first.
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 dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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