What makes a stain remover work?

Stain removers often contain alcohol which acts as a solvent for both water-based and oil-based stains. Hydrocarbon solvents, such as gasoline, may be used to dissolve some stains. The rule here is that "like dissolves like".

Basically this means you want to use a solvent that is chemically similar to your stain. So, if you have a water-based stain, use a water-based solvent, like club soda or soapy water. If you have an oily stain, try rubbing alcohol or gas onto the spot.

Emulsify the StainDishwashing detergents and stain removers contain emulsifiers or surfactants. Emulsifiers coat the stain and help to lift it off of the surface. Surfactants increase the wettability of materials, making it easier for the stain remover to contact and remove the stain.

Examples of surfactants are soap and sulfonates. These chemicals have a dual nature, helping them remove both watery and oily stains. Each molecule has a polar head that mixes with water, as well as a hydrocarbon tail that dissolves grease.

The tail attaches to the oily part of a stain while the hydrophilic or water-loving head attaches to water. Several surfactant molecules work together, encompassing the stain so it can be rinsed away. Digest the StainStain removers often employ enzymes or other proteins to break apart stain molecules.

Enzymes digest proteins and fats in stains in much the same way as they digest the food you eat. Enzyme-based stain removers are highly effective on such stains as blood or chocolate. Stains may be broken apart by breaking the chemical bonds in the stain molecules.

Oxidizers can break apart a long colored molecule, making it easier to lift away or sometimes rendering it colorless. Examples of oxidizers include peroxide, chlorine bleach and borax. Hide the StainMany stain removers contain whiteners.

These chemicals may not contribute any cleaning power, yet they may render the stain invisible or draw the eye away from it. Bleaches oxidize the colored molecule so it doesn't appear so dark. Other types of whiteners reflect back light, covering a stain or making it less noticeable.