Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best for Set in Stains
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best Design
- 6. Best for Small Spaces
- 7. Runner-Up
- 8. Best Heavy-Duty
- Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Stain Removers
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing the best stain remover for set in stains can be tough. The top pick is Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray, which comes in a 22oz bottle. This option works on food, drinks, and dirt stains due to its active enzymes. For a value pick, Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is great for quick jobs, but it only offers 4oz, which is small for heavy users.
The key tradeoff is size versus power. You may prefer the large 22oz bottle for long-lasting use or the compact 4oz option for easy portability. This page will help you explore various options to find the right stain remover for your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
Here are some top choices for the best stain remover for set in stains, along with their pros and cons.
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
Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray is the top choice for tough, set-in stains. This 22oz spray bottle contains powerful enzymes that break down various stains, including food and drink spills. Its ability to cling to stained areas allows for thorough penetration and removal of dirt and grime, making it a strong contender in the market.
Compared to other options, Shout’s formula works on many stains, making it versatile and effective. While other products may target specific stains more effectively, such as oil or ink, Shout’s broad application makes it a reliable pick for general use. It also features a bottle made from 25% recycled plastic, making it a more eco-friendly option.
A drawback is that it may not work as quickly on extremely tough stains. Users might need to apply it more than once to fully remove some types of set-in stains. However, the overall effectiveness and size make it a strong option for anyone dealing with a variety of stains.
Pros
- 22oz bottle for longer use
- Active enzymes tackle a variety of stains
- Made with 25% recycled plastic
- Clings to stains for better penetration
Cons
- May require multiple applications on tough stains
- Not ideal for delicate fabrics
Best for: General stains and spills. Not ideal for: Very delicate items or fabrics.
A powerful choice for removing set-in stains with versatile applications.
2. Best for Set in 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.
Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray is our best pick for fighting set-in stains. This 4oz spray is designed for quick action, making it a convenient choice for parents and busy individuals. It is EPA Safer Choice certified, ensuring it meets safety standards for health and environment, which is important for households with children or pets.
While it may be smaller than other options, this stain remover is effective on various stains. It works well on fabrics, upholstery, and carpets, making it a versatile tool in your cleaning arsenal. However, its smaller size might not be sufficient for larger cleaning tasks or frequent use compared to larger bottles.
One limitation is that users might find it runs out quickly if used often. Its compact size means it is perfect for on-the-go cleaning, but heavy users may need to buy more frequently. Despite this, its effectiveness and safety certifications make it a great choice for targeted cleaning.
Pros
- EPA Safer Choice certified for safety
- Quick action on multiple types of stains
- Compact size for easy portability
- Safe for fabrics, upholstery, and carpets
Cons
- Small 4oz size runs out quickly
- Not as powerful on tough stains compared to larger bottles
Best for: Quick clean-ups and on-the-go use. Not ideal for: Large cleaning tasks requiring more product.
A compact and effective option for fast stain removal needs.
3. Best Compact
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 specially designed for tough, set-in stains. This 12 fl oz spray is particularly effective for parents dealing with baby stains. Its unique formula allows you to spray now and wash up to 7 days later, providing flexibility in treating stains.
Compared to others, OxiClean Max Force’s 5-in-1 stain fighting technology tackles various stain types effectively. This includes food, drink, and dirt stains common in households with children. While it may not be as eco-friendly as some other options, its powerful formulation makes it a strong contender.
One downside is that its size might be limiting for larger households. Users may need multiple bottles if dealing with frequent and heavy staining, especially during messy activities. Still, its ability to handle set-in stains makes it a preferred choice for families.
Pros
- 12 fl oz bottle for effective use
- Spray can be used up to 7 days later
- 5-in-1 stain fighting technology
- Ideal for baby stains and tough marks
Cons
- Smaller 12 fl oz size may not last long
- Not as eco-friendly as some alternatives
Best for: Families dealing with baby stains. Not ideal for: Users wanting an eco-friendly option.
A reliable choice for tough stains, particularly in family settings.
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 a powerful gel designed for tough stains. This 8.7oz bottle features a built-in scrubber brush, making it easy to target set-in stains directly. Its thick gel consistency allows for deep cleaning, ensuring maximum effectiveness on stubborn marks.
In comparison to other stain removers, this product focuses on tough set-in stains specifically. The built-in scrubber enhances the cleaning process, allowing for better stain removal on targeted areas. However, it may not be as versatile as sprays that cover larger areas quickly.
A limitation with this gel is that it might require extra effort in scrubbing, especially for large stains. Some users may prefer sprays for easier application. Despite this, it’s an excellent pick for those needing a focused approach to stain removal.
Pros
- Built-in scrubber for targeted stain removal
- Thick gel for deep cleaning
- Effective on tough set-in stains
- Compact 8.7oz size for easy use
Cons
- Requires scrubbing effort for best results
- Less effective for large area coverage
Best for: Targeted stain removal on small areas. Not ideal for: Users wanting easy spray application.
A focused solution for tough stains with built-in scrubbing power.
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) offers a larger size for families needing effective stain removal. Like its smaller counterpart, this version is also fast-acting and EPA Safer Choice certified. Its effectiveness makes it suitable for a variety of surfaces, including clothes and carpets.
When compared to other options, this larger 16 oz size provides better value for those needing a stain remover for frequent use. It maintains the same safety features, which is important for households with kids. However, it may not be as portable as the smaller 4 oz option, making it less suitable for on-the-go use.
A real tradeoff is that it may take longer to dry compared to faster-drying formulas. Users may also need to ensure they have enough space for storage. Still, its combination of size and effectiveness makes it a strong contender for family cleaning needs.
Pros
- 16 oz for better value and longevity
- Fast-acting on various types of stains
- Safer Choice certified for health standards
- Effective on clothes, carpets, and upholstery
Cons
- Not as portable as smaller sizes
- May take longer to dry after application
Best for: Larger families needing effective stain removal. Not ideal for: Users wanting a compact product.
A larger, effective solution for busy households tackling various stains.
6. Best for Small Spaces
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 tough stain removal with its 22oz size. This thick gel targets various stains, including food and drink spills. The formula penetrates deeply for effective cleaning, making it suitable for different fabrics.
Compared to other stains removers, its larger size offers more value for users with frequent cleaning needs. While some competitors may have scrubbing features, Shout’s gel formulation is straightforward and easy to apply.
One downside is that it may not be as effective on delicate fabrics, which could limit its use. Users with a variety of fabric types should test it cautiously. Overall, its size and effectiveness make it a solid option for general stain removal needs.
Pros
- 22oz for extensive cleaning use
- Thick gel formula for deep stain removal
- Easy to apply without scrubbing
- Versatile for various types of fabrics
Cons
- Not ideal for delicate fabrics
- Might require multiple applications for tough stains
Best for: General use and larger cleaning tasks. Not ideal for: Delicate items requiring special care.
A solid choice for tackling various stains in a larger format.
7. Runner-Up
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, offers a portable solution for fresh stains. This instant stain remover pen is perfect for treating spills on the spot, helping you avoid set-in stains. Its travel-friendly design makes it easy to keep in your purse or bag.
Compared to other stain removers, this pen is unique in its immediate application. It works best on fresh stains, unlike others that target set-in stains after they happen. However, it does not help with older stains, which limits its use.
A significant drawback is that it may not be as effective on tougher, set-in stains. Users looking for a product to treat existing stains might find it less helpful. Despite this, its portability makes it a useful addition to any cleaning kit.
Pros
- Portable design for on-the-go use
- Instant stain removal for fresh spills
- Fits easily in purses or bags
- Easy to apply and use
Cons
- Not effective on set-in stains
- Limited capacity for larger cleaning tasks
Best for: Quick treatment of fresh stains. Not ideal for: Set-in stains or larger cleaning needs.
A handy solution for immediate stain emergencies.
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 Laundry Spray is designed for tough stains like oil, paint, and blood. This 16 oz spray is chlorine and bleach-free, making it safe for a variety of fabrics. It offers a toxin-free option that effectively tackles set-in stains without harming your clothes.
When compared to other stain removers, Grandma’s Secret provides a unique formula that focuses on tougher marks without using harmful chemicals. This makes it suitable for families seeking a safer cleaning option. However, its effectiveness on very old or extremely stubborn stains may not be as strong as other targeted products.
One limitation is that it may require more effort on your part to see results. Users might need to apply the product multiple times for particularly tough stains. Overall, it’s a good option for those looking for a safe and effective stain remover.
Pros
- Toxin-free formula safe for fabrics
- Effective on tough stains like oil and blood
- 16 oz for decent longevity
- Chlorine and bleach-free
Cons
- May require multiple applications for tough stains
- Less effective on very old stains
Best for: Families needing a safer stain remover. Not ideal for: Users looking for fast results on extremely stubborn stains.
A safe option for tackling tough stains while protecting your clothes.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows different stain removers, their main features, and key specifications. Each row lists the pros and cons to help you choose the best stain remover for set in stains.
| # | 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 Set in Stains | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Best Compact | 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 Design | Miss Mouth's | $27.99 | Check |
| 6 | Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray | Best for Small Spaces | SC Johnson | $4.98 | Check |
| 7 | Tide Stain Remover for Clothes | Runner-Up | 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 to Choose Stain Removers
Choose Based on Stain Type
Different stain removers work better on specific stains. For example, enzyme-based removers like Shout work well on food and drink stains. Oil-based stains need a solvent-based remover. Always check the label to find one that targets your main stains.
Consider Size of the Bottle
Bottle size matters when selecting a stain remover. Larger bottles like 22oz will last longer and be more cost-effective. Smaller bottles, such as 4oz, are easier to carry but may run out quickly. Think about how often you’ll use the product.
Look for Safety Certifications
Check for safety certifications like EPA Safer Choice. These certifications ensure the product is safer for health and the environment. If you have kids or pets, choosing a certified product gives extra confidence.
Examine Application Method
Stain removers come in sprays and gels. Sprays like Shout are easy to use and cover large areas quickly. Gels, like Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber, may provide better control for targeted areas, but can be messier.
Assess Value for Money
Value isn’t just about price. Compare the size of the bottle with the effectiveness. A larger bottle that works well is often a better buy than a cheaper, smaller option that doesn’t work as effectively.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from reliable sources, including product listings and user reviews. Our goal was to provide accurate details about each stain remover’s effectiveness and use cases. We looked at over 30 products in the stain remover category.
How we built this shortlist
To create this shortlist, we focused on stain removers specifically designed for set in stains. Factors included effectiveness, safety ratings, and bottle size. We aimed to include a variety of products to suit different needs.
What we ruled out and why
Products that did not specifically address set in stains were ruled out. We also excluded items with poor user reviews or limited safety certifications. This process left us with stain removers that are both effective and safe.
What we did not do
We did not conduct hands-on testing or lab measurements. All information comes from product listings and user feedback. No scores were invented; our analysis is based on gathered data.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changing user reviews. We aim to check and refresh our data every few months to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stain remover for set in stains?
The best stain remover for set in stains is Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray. It effectively targets various stains due to its active enzyme formula.
Can I use stain remover on carpets?
Yes, many stain removers can be used on carpets. Always check the label for specific instructions. Some options, like Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater, are designed for fabric and upholstery.
How long do I need to leave stain remover on?
It depends on the product. Some stain removers work in minutes, while others may need longer. Always read the product instructions for the best results.
Are stain removers safe for kids?
Look for stain removers that are EPA Safer Choice certified for added safety. Products like Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater are certified, ensuring they meet high health standards.
What stains are hardest to remove?
Set in stains like red wine, grease, and ink are often the hardest to remove. Products designed specifically for tough stains, such as OxiClean Max Force, can be very effective.
What to look for
Enzyme Power
Enzymes are proteins that break down stains. Look for stain removers with active enzymes for food and drink stains. Brands like Shout use these enzymes to effectively tackle tough stains on fabric.
Safety Features
Safety features are important, especially for families. Check for certifications like EPA Safer Choice. These ensure the product meets safety standards and is safer for use around children and pets.
Application Type
The method of application can affect how well the stain remover works. Sprays cover larger areas quickly, while gels allow for targeted cleaning. Choose based on your cleaning needs and preferences.
Stain Type Compatibility
Different removers work better on different stains. For example, some formulas target oil-based stains, while others focus on food and drink. Understanding the types of stains you deal with will help guide your choice.
Concentration Levels
Concentration levels indicate how powerful the stain remover is. More concentrated formulas may be thicker and provide deeper cleaning. Look for products labeled as ‘ultra-concentrated’ for tough stains.
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