Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner effectively tackles tough stains in a way that’s safe for you, your home, and the planet. Sal Suds is a versatile, high-performance cleaner and stain remover made with plant-based surfactants and essential oils. It’s tough on grease and stains, yet gentle on the environment.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to use Sal Suds as a stain remover for all types of situations, following the best practices of the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), which provides scientifically-backed tips to ensure effective and safe cleaning. The ACI offers valuable advice on everything from stain pre-treatment to eco-friendly cleaning strategies. We’ve combined their guidelines with Dr. Bronner’s philosophy of ecological responsibility to give you the best tips for removing stains using Sal Suds.
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Why Use Sal Suds as a Stain Remover?
Sal Suds is concentrated, effective, and biodegradable. Unlike many harsh chemical cleaners, Sal Suds is made from naturally derived ingredients, such as coconut-based surfactants and fir needle essential oil, that are safe for your home and the environment. While it’s not a soap, its powerful surfactants cut through grease, oil, dirt, and stains, making it a great choice for removing difficult stains on clothing, upholstery, carpets, and surfaces.
General Guidelines for Stain Removal
Before diving into specific types of stains, let’s review the American Cleaning Institute’s best practices for removing stains, which you should follow whenever you’re using Sal Suds:
- Act Quickly: The faster you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove. If a stain sits too long, it can set, making removal more difficult.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: When dealing with fabric, always blot the stain gently with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
- Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Always test Sal Suds in a small, hidden area first to ensure it won’t damage the material.
- Use the Right Concentration: Sal Suds is highly concentrated. For stain treatment, a small amount goes a long way. Diluting it properly helps maintain its effectiveness without wasting product.
- Cold Water for Protein-Based Stains: For stains like blood or sweat, use cold water, as hot water can cause the protein to coagulate, making the stain harder to remove.
How to Use Sal Suds as a Stain Remover for Different Stain Types
Oil and Grease Stains
Oil and grease can be particularly tricky to remove, especially from fabrics and carpets. Fortunately, Sal Suds is specifically designed to cut through greasy messes.
Steps:
- Dilute a small amount of Sal Suds with water (about 1 teaspoon of Sal Suds in 1 cup of water).
- Blot any excess grease or oil from the fabric or surface.
- Apply the diluted solution directly to the stain using a clean cloth or sponge.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the solution to penetrate the fibers.
- Blot the area with a damp cloth to lift the stain. If necessary, repeat the process until the stain is gone.
- Rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove any remaining cleaner.
ACI Tip: For fabrics, avoid using hot water on grease stains as it can set the stain. Cold or lukewarm water works best for loosening the oil before cleaning.
Grass and Dirt Stains
Grass stains are common, especially on children’s clothing, and they can be difficult to remove due to the pigments in the grass. Sal Suds helps break down these natural pigments, making the stains easier to lift.
Steps:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of Sal Suds with 1 cup of warm water.
- Apply the solution directly to the stain.
- Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently scrub the stain with a soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse the area with water and blot dry. Repeat as needed.
ACI Tip: For clothes, pretreat the stain with a diluted Sal Suds solution before laundering. Do not dry the fabric until the stain is fully removed, as heat can set the stain permanently.
Wine, Coffee, and Tea Stains
Tannin-based stains from wine, coffee, or tea are notorious for being stubborn. These stains need a combination of blotting and scrubbing to lift.
Steps:
- Blot the excess liquid with a paper towel or clean cloth.
- Mix a few drops of Sal Suds with 1 cup of warm water.
- Apply the solution to the stain using a sponge or cloth.
- Gently blot and scrub the area in a circular motion.
- Rinse with cold water and blot dry. Repeat if necessary.
ACI Tip: Always blot tannin stains from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain further. For best results, treat the stain as soon as possible after the spill occurs.
Blood, Sweat, and Other Protein-Based Stains
Protein-based stains like blood, sweat, or eggs need special treatment because hot water can cause the proteins to set in the fibers. Cold water and Sal Suds are perfect for these stains.
Steps:
- Rinse the stained area with cold water.
- Dilute Sal Suds (1 teaspoon in 1 cup of cold water).
- Apply the solution to the stain and gently blot.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
- Repeat if needed, then launder or rinse the fabric thoroughly.
ACI Tip: Never use hot water on protein stains. Cold water helps break down the proteins without setting the stain.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices
In addition to following the American Cleaning Institute’s stain removal guidelines, it’s important to keep eco-friendly cleaning in mind. Here are a few ways to ensure you’re cleaning sustainably:
- Use Cold Water: Whenever possible, opt for cold water to minimize energy usage.
- Dilute Properly: Since Sal Suds is highly concentrated, you can use less product, reducing waste and packaging.
- Rinse Responsibly: After cleaning, be sure to rinse thoroughly with water to prevent any excess cleaner from lingering on surfaces.
- Choose Biodegradable Cleaners: Using a biodegradable cleaner like Sal Suds ensures that no harmful chemicals are released into the environment.
Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds is a versatile and eco-friendly solution for tackling tough stains while staying in line with the cleaning best practices set by the American Cleaning Institute. Whether you’re dealing with grease, dirt, or protein stains, Sal Suds can help you remove them effectively without harming the environment.
