Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Value
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best for Beginners
- 5. Best Compact
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Runner-Up
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Stain Removers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
If you want to know whats a good stain remover, Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Stain Remover Spray is the first choice. This powerful 22oz spray works on many types of stains like food, drinks, and blood. For a budget pick, Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray offers good performance in a smaller 4oz size. It’s great for cloth but may not handle heavy stains as well as larger options.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Stain Removers Reviewed in Detail
In this guide, we review various stain removers to help you find the right one.
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 a strong choice. This 22oz spray targets many tough stains like food and grass. It clings to stains, making them easier to clean. You can expect effective results with its active enzyme formula. Shout is known for delivering quality products, and this one is no exception.
Pros
- Works on various stains like food and blood.
- 22oz size offers good value.
- Contains 25% recycled plastic in the bottle.
Cons
- May not work on very set-in stains.
- Spray nozzle can clog if not cleaned.
Best for: Families dealing with multiple stain types. Not ideal for: Very tough, set-in stains.
A versatile choice for everyday stain removal.
2. Best Value
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 a strong choice for parents dealing with stains. This compact 4oz spray is powerful and fast-acting. Users appreciate its ability to tackle common stains on clothes and upholstery. Compared to larger options, this one is convenient and easy to carry. It is also EPA Safer Choice certified, which adds a layer of safety. However, the smaller size means you may need to use it more often, especially for larger messes. If you’re looking for something portable, this stain remover is a solid option.
Pros
- Fast-acting formula for quick stain removal.
- EPA Safer Choice certified for health safety.
- Compact 4oz size is portable.
Cons
- Smaller size may run out quickly.
- Not as effective on set-in stains.
Best for: Families needing a portable stain solution. Not ideal for: Large or stubborn stains.
A quick solution for on-the-go stain removal.
3. Most Versatile
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
- 12 FL OZ OXICLEAN MAX FORCE STAIN REMOVER SPRAY; this newborn and baby essential helps parents power out tough set-in laundry stains the first time; spray now and wash up to 7 days later
- SPRAY NOW, WASH UP TO 7 DAYS LATER; this convenient baby stain remover spray penetrates tough laundry stains
- 5-IN-1 STAIN FIGHTERS help remove tough dried-in stains the first time, like berries, baby food, fruit juice, grass, mud, oil, grease, coffee, wine, chocolate, ketchup, blood, ink and washable paint
- TOUGH ON STAINS, GENTLE ON CLOTHES; this color-safe, enzymatic stain remover for baby clothes is a baby and newborn essential that contains no chlorine bleach, no brighteners, no dyes and no phosphates
- FOR ALL MACHINE-WASHABLE FABRICS; a powerful laundry stain remover for onesies, bibs, sheets, towels, denim jeans, t-shirts, workout gear, canvas shoes, dresses, bras; and washable fabrics like cotton, linen, spandex, fleece, polyester, nylon
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray is designed for tough stains. This 12 fl oz spray is effective and can penetrate set-in stains. Parents often find it helpful for baby clothes, as it can work on stains that are hard to remove. Compared to other options like Shout, it focuses on heavy-duty cleaning. Users report positive results, especially with old stains. However, some may find the size limits its use for large laundry loads. This spray is a great choice if you need strong performance against tough stains.
Pros
- Effective against set-in stains.
- Helps treat tough stains up to 7 days old.
- 12 fl oz size is good for heavy-duty use.
Cons
- Size may not be enough for larger families.
- More expensive than smaller options.
Best for: Parents needing to remove tough baby stains. Not ideal for: General everyday use.
A powerful option for deep cleaning tough stains.
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
Shout Advanced Set-In Stain Scrubber is made to tackle tough stains effectively. This 8.7oz gel features a built-in scrubber brush, making it easier to apply. It is concentrated and works best on food and grass stains. Compared to other options, it offers an advantage with its scrubbing feature. Users find it more effective than typical sprays for set-in stains. However, the smaller size may not suffice for big cleaning tasks. This stain remover is suitable for those looking for an easy-to-use gel option.
Pros
- Built-in scrubber brush for easy application.
- Thick gel formula targets tough stains.
- Concentrated for effective stain treatment.
Cons
- Smaller size may not cover large areas.
- Scrubbing may be difficult on delicate fabrics.
Best for: Users needing a gel with scrubbing power. Not ideal for: Delicate fabrics or large cleaning jobs.
A convenient gel for stubborn stains with scrubber features.
5. Best Compact
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 16oz is a larger version of its smaller counterpart. This 16oz spray retains the fast-acting formula. It’s great for families dealing with frequent stains on various surfaces. Compared to the 4oz size, it offers more product for less frequent replenishment. However, the fast-acting nature may not break down very old stains as effectively. This option is suitable for parents who want convenience and volume.
Pros
- 16oz size offers more product.
- Fast-acting and effective on various stains.
- EPA Safer Choice certified.
Cons
- Still less effective on tough, set-in stains.
- May not work on delicate fabrics.
Best for: Families with high stain removal needs. Not ideal for: Delicate fabrics.
A larger version for busy households dealing with stains.
6. Best for Daily Use
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 stains. This 22oz gel is thick and penetrates various stains effectively. Unlike other sprays, it is particularly useful for set-in stains. Users appreciate its performance on food and drink stains. Its size makes it appropriate for larger families. However, the thickness may require more rinsing to remove residue. This is a solid option for anyone seeking a powerful stain remover.
Pros
- Thick gel formula for heavy-duty cleaning.
- 22oz size is suitable for families.
- Effective on multiple stain types.
Cons
- Can leave a residue if not rinsed properly.
- May not be ideal for delicate fabrics.
Best for: Families needing a powerful stain cleaner. Not ideal for: Delicate or sensitive fabrics.
A strong gel option for tough stain removal needs.
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, Tide To Go Pen is compact and portable. This instant stain remover pen is designed for quick touch-ups. It’s perfect for on-the-go situations, making it convenient for busy lives. Compared to larger sprays, it’s easy to carry and fits in bags or purses. However, it may not be effective on larger stains that need more product. This pen is ideal for anyone needing a quick solution for small stains.
Pros
- Portable design for on-the-go stain removal.
- Instantly tackles food and drink stains.
- Easy to fit in purses and bags.
Cons
- Not effective on large or set-in stains.
- Limited amount of product in each pen.
Best for: Quick fixes for small stains. Not ideal for: Large or tough stains.
A handy option for fast stain removal when needed.
8. Best for Small Spaces
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 gentle yet effective stain remover. This product is chlorine and toxin-free, making it safe for various fabrics. It works well on a range of stains, including oil and paint. Compared to harsher options, it is gentler on the environment and clothing. However, it may require more applications for stubborn stains. This is a great choice for those needing an eco-friendly solution.
Pros
- Toxin-free formula safe for various fabrics.
- Effective on oil, paint, and pet stains.
- Gentle on clothes, preserving colors.
Cons
- May not work as well on tough set-in stains.
- Requires multiple applications for stubborn stains.
Best for: Eco-conscious users needing safe cleaning solutions. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty stains.
An environmentally friendly choice for gentler cleaning.
Stain Removers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the main features of each stain remover. Compare their sizes, effectiveness, and key details. Use this information when deciding which is the best option for your needs, especially if you are wondering whats a good stain remover.
| # | 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 Value | The Hate Stains Co | $7.97 | Check |
| 3 | OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Treater Spray | Most Versatile | 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 Compact | Miss Mouth's | $27.99 | Check |
| 6 | Shout Advanced Gel Laundry Stain Remover Spray | Best for Daily Use | 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 for Small Spaces | 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 well-known consumer product sites, manufacturer details, and customer reviews. This helped us understand the performance and safety of stain removers. We focused on products that received high ratings across these sources.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes eight popular stain removers. We looked at over 30 products to find the best. Each product was evaluated based on effectiveness, safety certifications, and user feedback.
What we ruled out and why
Some products were removed for lacking important safety certifications or having low user ratings. We also excluded items that contained harsh chemicals. Our goal was to prioritize options that meet high safety and performance standards.
What we did not do
None of the products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We did not assign scores or ratings based on subjective opinions. All details are based on documented sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in consumer feedback. We aim to refresh the content every six months to ensure accuracy and relevance.
How to Choose Stain Removers
Look for Effectiveness
Check if the stain remover works on the type of stain you encounter. Many products list specific stains they can tackle, like food or grass. Choose one that addresses your most common stains, ensuring it’s powerful enough for tough spots.
Consider Safety Certifications
Choose stain removers with safety certifications like EPA Safer Choice. This label means the product meets strict health and safety standards. It’s especially important if you have kids or pets around, as these products are safer to use.
Check the Size
The size of the stain remover is important for your needs. Smaller sizes like 4oz are portable but may run out quickly. Larger bottles are cost-effective and provide more product for heavy users, especially for families.
Read Reviews
Look for customer reviews to see how well a product works. Real user experiences can provide valuable insights on effectiveness and ease of use. Pay attention to comments about specific stains to gauge performance.
Evaluate Versatility
Consider how versatile the stain remover is. Some can be used on various surfaces like clothes, carpets, and upholstery. A versatile cleaner can save you money and space, as you’ll need fewer products for different tasks.
What to look for
Stain Type
Different stain removers work better on specific types of stains. For example, some may excel at removing food stains, while others are better for ink or grass. Identify the most common stains you face and select a product that targets those effectively.
User Safety
Safety is important when choosing a stain remover, especially if children or pets are present. Look for products labeled as non-toxic or those that have safety certifications. These ensure that harmful chemicals are minimized, making them safer for home use.
Application Method
Consider how you will apply the stain remover. Spray bottles offer convenience for quick application, while gels may need scrubbing. Choose a method that fits your cleaning habits and the fabric types you typically treat.
Concentration Level
Some stain removers come in concentrated forms, which can be more effective on tough stains. They often require dilution, so read instructions carefully. A concentrated option might be a better choice for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental effects of the stain remover. Products made from recycled materials or with eco-friendly certifications are preferable. These options help reduce waste and promote safer, green cleaning practices in your home.
Frequently asked questions
Whats a good stain remover for food stains?
Shout Triple-Acting Active Enzyme Stain Remover Spray is effective against food stains. Its active enzymes help break down food particles, making it easier to remove tough food stains from clothing.
Can stain removers be used on carpets?
Yes, many stain removers can be used on carpets. Check the label to ensure it is safe for fabric types and follow the instructions for best results.
How do I use a stain remover?
Generally, spray or apply the stain remover directly on the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing the item as usual. Always do a patch test on an inconspicuous area first.
Are there stain removers safe for children’s clothes?
Yes, look for stain removers that are EPA Safer Choice certified or labeled non-toxic. These products are typically safer for children’s clothing and sensitive skin.
What if a stain doesn’t come out completely?
If a stain doesn’t come out completely, reapply the stain remover and let it sit longer. You might also want to try a different product that targets that specific stain type.
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
About the author
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