How to Easily Remove Insect Repellent Stains from Activewear
Stains from insect repellent can turn your activewear into an eyesore. To help keep it looking its best, learn how to easily remove stubborn insect repellent stains with these helpful steps!
Updated 04 Mar 2023
By Isabelle Trottier
What You Will Need
- Mild detergent
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Old toothbrush
- Towel or cloth
Steps to Remove Insect Repellent Stains
- Start by soaking the soiled area of your activewear in cold water. This will help loosen the stain and make it easier to remove.
- If the insect repellent contains oil, spray some white vinegar directly on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing. The vinegar will help break down the oils and make them easier to remove.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of mild detergent with 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a bowl of warm water. Soak stained area in solution for 30 minutes.
- After soaking, scrub the area gently with an old toothbrush or other soft bristled brush. Then, rinse the garment until all residue is gone.
- If the stain persists, mix 1 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of mild detergent with 1 cup of warm water. Soak the area in this solution for 15 minutes, then scrub with the old toothbrush.
- Rinse the area thoroughly with warm water and then with cold water. Hang it up to air-dry.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t put garment in dryer. The heat from the dryer can set stain and make it more difficult to remove.
- Never use hot water as this can further set the stain.
- Always test a small area of the fabric before using any of these cleaning methods.
- If stain isn’t completely gone after washing, repeat the process.