Javelle water.—For stains on uncolored cotton, linen, or rayon, dip in Javelle water for 1 minute (no longer), remove the chlorine from the cloth with a sodium thiosulfate solution, rinse well in water. (See [p. 6] for more detailed instructions.) Do not use Javelle water on silk or wool.
Hydrogen peroxide and sodium perborate.—For other materials sponge with a mixture of 1 teaspoon sodium perborate to 1 pint peroxide. Rinse well.
Lead pencil
A soft eraser sometimes will remove the marks, especially on stiff or starched materials. If the material is washable, rub soapsuds into the stain and launder as usual. Sponge woolen materials with clear water or with a solution of equal parts alcohol and water.
Perspiration Stains
Perspiration of the body is usually acid, so you can sometimes restore colors changed by a perspiration stain by treating with an alkali. Dampen the stain with water and hold it over the fumes from an open ammonia water bottle. (See Acids, [p. 10].) Old stains may be alkaline; then try vinegar. (See Alkalies, [p. 11].) However, colors changed by perspiration cannot always be restored, particularly if the stain is an old one.
To remove perspiration odors, sponge the stained part with warm water to which a few drops of vinegar have been added, sprinkle powdered pepsin over the stain, work it well into the cloth, and let stand 1 to 2 hours, keeping the spot moist. Then brush off the powder and rinse well.
Yellowish perspiration stains on white material can be removed by:
Soap and water.—If the material is washable, bleach in the sun after washing in soap and water.
Bleaches.—For a stubborn stain, try a bleach.