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The 8 Best Stain Removers for Clothes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorites will tackle your toughest clothing stains

Person rubbing a Cleancult Stick onto a chocolate stain on a T-shirt

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

If you're currently managing your laundry without a stain remover in the mix, please first accept our humble congratulations. Second, allow us to make a few suggestions in case the day finally arrives when you'll need to add one to your routine.

Stain removers use enzymes or oxidation to break down and remove tough stains on clothing, and they offer a more targeted approach to spot removal than traditional laundry detergent. As Kathy Cohoon, franchise owner at Two Maids & A Mop, says, "Stain removers are going where they should," unlike general detergents that wash an entire article of clothing.

Plus, stain removers and detergents differ because the process takes time. "You're going to use [a stain remover] prior to washing," explains Cohoon. She recommends letting it sit for four hours, at minimum before tossing it into the laundry. Package directions can vary, but consider this advice your baseline.

To find the best stain remover out there, we researched and tested 30 stain-fighters in The Lab, from well-known name brands to under-the-radar hits, to see which ones are top notch and worth your consideration. As part of our testing, we included all of stain formats we could find, from sprays to bars, and we tested them against plenty of common, yet tough stains—red wine, chocolate syrup, and yes, a smear of grass. Then, we evaluated them on ease of use, effectiveness, scent, types of substances they can tackle, and overall value.

Editor's Note: This review was revised in February 2024 to include updated testing insights.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Method Stain Remover

Method Stain Remover

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Extremely effective at removing multiple types of stains

  • Built-in bristle brush

  • Plant-based formula

What We Don't Like
  • Bottle could be larger

Method's Stain Remover was a standout in our testing, scoring high ratings across the board. You can use it on pretty much any tough stain you'll encounter, including grease, blood, grass, oil, food, makeup, and more. The plant-based formula lifts stains with minimal time or elbow grease required. We were wowed and impressed with the great results. The grass, marker, and syrup were all totally removed, and no residue from the stain or cleaner remains. We were worried about the stain transferring, based on the sudsy-ness of the application process, but it all washed away cleanly. The wine stain showed particularly great improvement, especially in comparison to the other products we tested.

Even better, the noteworthy results are a breeze to come by, thanks to the brush-and-bottle combination. We love that it was extremely easy to use, especially when working with large stains. While we liked the built-in brush, you could also squirt the product on, especially if you're spot-cleaning a small stain.

Person cleaning stain on a piece of cloth using Method Stain Remover

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

All of this comes at a fair price, too. While the bottle isn't huge, you still get enough to work on really large or tough stains. We think the bristle applicator is a major bonus as the friction really seemed to help lift some of the tougher stains, such as makeup.

Type: Pen and brush | Amount: 6 ounces | Scent: Light chemical smell | Application Method: Squeeze and brush on, let stand

What are the typical ingredients in stain removers?

Formulas vary from brand to brand, but you'll find some consistencies from one product to the next. For oxygen-based cleaners, picture the active ingredients as similar to hydrogen peroxide. That bubbly reaction you may know from using hydrogen peroxide in first aid is a similar process to what's happening when you use oxygen-based cleaners with your laundry.

Enzymatic cleaners, on the other hand, are a little harder to generalize, but plant-based formulas featuring those beneficial bacteria are indeed common. Our best overall pick, the Method Stain Remover, features this type of formula.

Best Value

Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam

Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Effective at removing a variety of stains with ease

  • Unscented formula

  • Easy to apply

What We Don't Like
  • Product should not dry before laundering

At less than $4, this popular foam stain remover from Shout was also a highly performing product that earned high ratings during our tests. It performed well across the board, removing most stains with ease, and took care of the remaining makeup and wine stains (which were challenges for most of the products we tested).

We also liked the performance and price. Other highlights were its ease of use, unscented formula, and overall value.

We noted that the directions tell you not to let this foam dry on stains. If you're someone who easily gets distracted and can see yourself getting interrupted while doing chores, or if you like to take your time with laundry steps, this product might not work with your usual process. Otherwise, it's a high performing, easy-to-use choice that proved to be effective during our testing process.

Type: Spray foam | Amount: 18 ounces | Scent: No noticeable scent | Application Method: Spray and launder before drying

Best Stick

Meliora Stain Soap Stick

Meliora Laundry Stain Removal Soap Stick

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Scent
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Lightly scented

  • Little packaging

  • Eco-friendly formula

What We Don't Like
  • Not as consistently highly performing as other products

Another highly performing bar for your consideration is the Meliora Laundry Stain Remover Soap Stick. This stain remover performed better than most. In fact, the vegetable soap formula contains eco-friendly ingredients like coconut and sunflower oil and the brand is committed to sustainable practices, too.

Person cleaning stain on the t-shirt using Meliora Laundry Stain Removal Soap Stick

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Plus, it's a cinch to use, though the process can be a bit messy in comparison to any spray you might use. All bar applications are a little messier than just spraying something on, but one good part of that is there is no plastic bottle! As for its performance, the bar was very strong across multiple categories, including ease of use, effectiveness, and scent. When it comes to price, it's key to note that this is worth the splurge, given the results. It also has a light, pleasant scented.

Type: Bar, stick | Amount: 1, 1.7-ounce bar | Scent: Light soap smell | Application Method: Wet stain and rub the soap on it

How much should a stain remover cost?

The prices of products we tested ranged from $3 to $25, with a median of $9. However, the volume of products varied, so sometimes higher prices corresponded with more product. When shopping, you'll want to consider the amount-to-dollar ratio, as well as the effectiveness of a product. It may cost more because it's great at what it does and, therefore, worth adding to your cart. It also could cost more because it's eco-friendly and has a list of well-sourced ingredients.

Best Powder

OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover Powder

OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover Powder

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Easily removed red wine stain

  • Can be used on a variety of surfaces

  • Can be used when pre-soaking items

What We Don't Like
  • Slightly more labor-intensive process

Though the process is different when you're using a powder stain remover, you can still expect impressive and rather quick results that rival liquid and gel spot treatments when using this product. We noted that it seemed to be very effective, especially at removing red wine stains, which other products struggled with. The makeup stain was lightened to some degree, too, earning the product a solid effectiveness score.

With OxiClean stain remover, the length of time you let the product sit can make a big difference. The longer you let the product set, the more it removes the stain. A heads-up that applying the cleaner to the stain takes some effort, because you have to mix the powder in a spray bottle and the process can get messy. You can also use it when pre-soaking laundry, though, and overall it was relatively easy to use.

Keep in mind that OxiClean is formulated with oxygen-based bleach. Extra care is recommended when using it. Be mindful of all safety precautions noted on the container, and check that it's suitable for the fabrics you're hoping to clean. You should never mix cleaners with each other, and always wear protective eyewear and gloves when working with products with bleach.

Type: Powder | Amount: 7.2 pounds | Scent: No noticeable smell | Application Method: Mix with water and apply, or pre-soak

Best for Travel

Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover

Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover

Amazon

What We Like
  • Effective at removing a variety of stains with ease

  • Can be used on different fabrics

  • Portable

What We Don't Like
  • Application process can feel slow

You might not always be near a washing machine when stains hit, which is why you should consider keeping a to-go stain remover handy. These compact pens work quickly to get rid of stains, helping to save the day. After seeing the results of this Tide product, one tester gushed, "I'm so impressed!" Progress was made with each of the stains tested, and grass, marker, and syrup stains were totally removed.

The pen contains a bleach-free formula that can be used on many different fabrics, even some that are dry-cleanable. All you need to do to use it is press the tip of the pen onto the stain to dispense the liquid. Rub it gently across the affected area. Keep in mind that it's not meant to be a substitute for a traditional wash.

The small size and slow application process make this more of an emergency product, or better suited for small areas. In fact, the design and packaging help with that. Plus, the pens come in a three-pack—perfect to stash in one's purse, car, or desk.

Type: Pen | Amount: 3 pens | Scent: Light chemical smell | Application Method: Blot stain, press pen tip, rub gently

Best for Grease

Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray

Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • No noticeable scent

  • Easy to apply

  • Works with all water temperatures

What We Don't Like
  • Not as efficient on wine stains

A grease stain doesn't have to be the end of the line for your favorite shirt. This spot remover from Grandma's Secret proved to be efficient at clearing all the stains used in testing, except for the trickiest of the group (the wine stain and foundation in particular) and was easy to use, too. Just apply it to the stain, let it sit, and then wash as usual. The bleach-free formula even promises to work with all water temperatures, adding to its very convenient nature.

Two persons looking at a stained cloth before using Grandma's Secret Spot Remover Laundry Spray

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

When it came to the specific categories we tested, it scored perfectly for ease of use, effectiveness, and scent while still earning a strong rating for value. Most importantly, we recommend it. Why? It just works well and was easy to use.

Type: Spray | Amount: 1, 2-ounce bottle and 1, 16-ounce bottle | Scent: No noticeable scent | Application Method: Apply to stain, let stand, then wash

Best for Fresh Stains

Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover

Seventh Generation Laundry Stain Remover

Target

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    5/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Easy to apply

  • Have 24 hours to wash treated items

  • Plant-based formula

What We Don't Like
  • Did not remove all stains with equal effectiveness

A quick response can make all the difference when it comes to stain removal. If you or someone you love is prone to spills—or you simply like to be prepared for anything—you may want to keep this one on hand. This spray performed better on newer stains than set-in ones. It's easy to use, comes in a convenient spray bottle, and is cost-effective. And it performed quite well for a super affordable price.

You have up to 24 hours to wash clothes after you've sprayed them, giving you a bit of flexibility that can be helpful, too. You don't have to completely stop your day to start a load of laundry after a single spill. We also appreciate that there are no dyes or fragrances in the plant-based formula, either. Keep this choice in mind if you're looking to keep a budget and eco-friendly stain remover on hand for quick action on recent spills.

Type: Spray | Amount: 16 ounces | Scent: Unscented | Application Method: Spray, wash within 24 hours

Best for Set-In Stains

Carbona Laundry Stain Scrubber

Carbona Pro Care Laundry Stain Scrubber

Walmart

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Use
    4/5
  • Scent
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    3.5/5
  • Value
    4/5
What We Like
  • Scrubber application

  • Light scent

  • Good for older stains

What We Don't Like
  • Needed to adapt process when working with fresh stain

This product seemed to work better on set-in stains. For those spots and smears that you've been putting off, or that need more attention, it's worth your consideration—as long as it's not wine or foundation, as those faded but were not completely removed. It also has a very light scent, which our tester found to be pleasant.

Of the scrubber itself, the applicator was a hit: "The brush makes me feel like I'm working in the treatment. . . . The only problem with the applicator was when I treated a fresh chocolate stain; for example, the applicator picked up chocolate and would smear it on the next stain. I adapted to avoid that happening. If you treated a fresh, messy stain, you'd want to wipe off the applicator when done," explains our tester. As long as you're mindful of that, this is a solid option for you and all of the set-in stains in your life.

Type: Gel | Amount: 3, 8.4-ounce bottles | Scent: Light | Application Method: Apply from bottle, use scrubber to work into stain

Final Verdict

For an all-around, highly performing stain remover, look no further than Method Stain Remover, our best overall pick. It stood out in our testing for its effectiveness on a variety of stains, and it features a built-in bristle brush and plant-based formula. For another effective choice, consider Shout Advanced Foaming Grease and Oil Laundry Stain Remover (our best value pick), which also scored well across the board and is easy to apply.

Laundry stain removers stain evaluation testing image

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

How We Tested the Stain Removers

Testing Laundry Stain Remover for Effectiveness and Ease of Use

We rolled up our sleeves and did hands-on testing of 30 different stain removers in The Lab. To test stain removers' performances on fresh stains, two shirts were provided. On one, we made four stains: red wine, chocolate syrup, grass, and blue washable marker. We then circled the stains with permanent black marker, so a clear record of size was made.

On the other shirt, we made two oil-based stains: foundation and olive oil, also circled. We then treated the stains according to manufacturer guidelines, taking careful observations at each step and evaluating effectiveness.

We also tried two more garments containing the same sets of stains, which had been previously made and allowed to set in. We then treated each stain the same way, comparing and contrasting the remover's effectiveness on set-in versus fresh stains. Each stain remover was evaluated in the same four categories: ease of use, effectiveness, scent, and value.

  • Ease of use: For ease of use, testers noted how easy or messy the application process was, and whether any additional features—like a built-in brush—made the process more intuitive.
  • Effectiveness: We also checked whether or not the stains came out in a single treatment. We also observed if the article of clothing was damaged or flawed after using the stain remover.
  • Scent: We rated the strength and pleasantness of the product's scent.
  • Value: For value, we took all of our experiences into consideration and compared them to the price of the product.

Both a numerical score and tester observations were recorded for each stain remover's performance in each category. Once the tests were complete, we boiled down all of the data to narrow down what we consider the very best stain removers for clothes.

laundry strain removers testing stain examples, evaluating stains

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

What to Look for in a Stain Remover for Clothes

Application Method

Stain removers tend to fall in one of four main application categories: sprays and foams, pens and brushes, bars and sticks, and soaks. During testing, we found strong performers in every category, so rest assured that whatever your preference is, you'll be able to find an option that best suits your laundry routine.

Not sure which is right for you? Consider some of the key differences.

  • Sprays and foams: Sprays and foams are applied straight from their bottle or container, directly to the stain. We like our best value pick, Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam.
  • Pens and brushes: Pens and brushes are often packaged in compact containers, and you can draw right on spots with them. For this option, we like Method Stain Remover, our best overall choice.
  • Bars and sticks: These are often concentrated solids. Like a bar of hand soap, you typically wet and apply them to the stain. One of their key differences is that they tend to use minimal packaging, so they can be eco-friendly options for many households. Our favorite is Meliora Laundry Stain Remover Soap Stick, our best stick pick.
  • Soaks: Finally, soaks take some (hands-off) time and require additional water and a container, like your washing machine basin or bathtub, or even a bucket. OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover Powder, our recommendation for best powder, is a great example.

No matter which application method you go with, keep the advice of Cohoon in mind. When using an oxygen-based cleaner, in particular, look for "at least 20 percent" of your ingredients to be peroxide or another suitable oxidation agent, since that's ultimately what will treat your stain and help remove it.

laundry stain removers testing images in action shots

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Effectiveness

The good news is that most stain removers can work well across your wardrobe. When asked whether she recommends for people to keep more than one on hand for treating various types of stains, Cohoon says it's really only a factor if someone wants to treat stains on white clothes with bleach, which is a matter of preference. "You don't want to put anything with bleach on colored [clothes]," she explains. Otherwise, you can just pick your favorite and stock it in your laundry room or closet.

As you're narrowing down choices to find that favorite, keep in mind that stain removers can be made to target specific types of spots, or formulated to be more "generalist" stain removers, and some can be a combination of each. For example, our best value pick, Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam, Laundry Stain Remover, is formulated for grease, yet it performs across the board.

Scent

The majority of our tested stain removers were found to have no noticeable scent or to smell pleasant and clean, according to our testers. However, keep in mind that even products marked "unscented" can still carry a light scent—often, it's a pleasant one, but it's a scent nonetheless. If you're considering a product that's new to you, skim through some reviews so you won't be dealing with any aromatic surprises when it arrives. Meliora Laundry Stain Remover Soap Stick, our best stick pick, has a light soap scent.

laundry stain removers testing photos

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Why Trust The Spruce?

Dena Ogden is a lifestyle and commerce writer who’s been writing professionally since 2016 and has been with The Spruce since August 2022. She's written about everything from baskets and bins to carpet shampoos and robot vacuums. For this piece, she assessed the detailed responses from our savvy stain remover product testers, who tested 30 different stain removers in The Lab. She also combed through product descriptions and listings, and factored in additional features like each stain remover's ingredients and packaging.

Our Experts: