Summer Stain Survival Guide: Keep Your Clothes Fresh All Summer Long

Summer Stain Survival Guide: Keep Your Clothes Fresh All Summer Long

Summer is full of sunshine, barbecues, pool days—and stains. Whether it’s ketchup from a cookout, sunscreen smudges, or grass stains from outdoor fun, summer is prime time for laundry challenges. Here are expert tips to keep your clothes looking their best all season long:

BBQ Sauce, Mustard & Ketchup

Summer foods are messy! To tackle condiment stains:

• Blot immediately—don’t rub!
• Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric to push the stain out.
• Apply a dab of dish soap or stain remover and let sit for 10–15 minutes before washing.

Sunscreen Smudges

Oily sunscreen can leave yellow stains, especially on whites.

• Gently blot off excess lotion.
• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb oils.
• After 30 minutes, brush off powder and pre-treat with a stain remover before washing in warm (not hot) water.

Grass Stains

For kids or adults getting active outdoors:

• Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water.
• Dab the solution onto the stain and gently scrub.
• Rinse and launder as usual. Repeat if needed!

Chlorine and Saltwater

After a pool or beach day, rinse swimwear right away—even if you don’t see damage. Chlorine and salt can degrade fabric over time.

• Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent.
• Air dry out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and stretching.

Need professional care? Find an Anton’s location near you.

Drop off or schedule a pickup with our delivery service, and we’ll handle the rest.