The holidays are stressful enough without you having to worry about getting certain food stains out of your table cloth, rugs, or anywhere else. This year, have some peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens, or what spills, you can handle it. Let’s explore some of the most common Thanksgiving and holiday stains that you may encounter this year and how to vanquish them like Uncle Mike vanquishes his second plate of pumpkin pie. 

Gravy Stains Or Turkey Grease

No holiday is complete without a good tub of gravy and no holiday is complete without someone spilling a little on the table or their shirt. Fear not! We can help you handle it like a pro. Here’s what you do:

• Gently scoop any excess gravy from the affected area using a spoon or dull knife. Feel free to put it on a roll and save it for later, otherwise discard it. 
• Dab dry with a paper towel.
• Cover the area with with salt or cornstarch to help absorb any grease and excess liquid.
• Vacuum off the corn starch or salt from the tablecloth and then cover the stained area with liquid laundry soap. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to a half hour. 
• Wash the table cloth in warm water on a gentle cycle.
• Don’t dry in your dryer until you are sure the stain is taken care of so that it doesn’t get permanently set. 

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberries. Not just an iconic 90’s band for sad theatre kids anymore! No, they are delicious in desserts and main dishes alike. But, when they spill on your precious table cloth that gran gifted you before she passed, then you will start to feel like a zombie in no time. Don’t worry, we can help you with that. Here’s how to get cranberry sauce out of your table cloth. 

• Again, gently scrape any excess cranberry goop off of the offended area using a spoon or knife or fork.
• If possible, remove the table cloth completely from the table (carefully) and run the affected area under COLD running water from the faucet for a few minutes until the stain has been thoroughly flushed.
• Now it is time to treat and wash. Combine 1/4 cup distilled vinegar, 1 tbsp laundry detergent, 3/4 cup water into a spray bottle. You can use dish soap instead of laundry soap if you prefer. 
  • Spray on the stained area so it is completely covered in the solution.
  • Blot the area with a dry paper towel until it is dry.
  • Repeat as necessary.
• If your tablecloth allows it per its care instructions, then it is time to wash it in warm water. Before you dry it, make sure that the stain is completely gone before putting it in the dryer because a hot dryer will set the stain permanently and grandma would not want that at all!

However you decide to celebrate your holiday season, make sure that you are able to feel good about keeping your house clean and in good order. Give us a call for a quote! Have fun and stay safe out there!