How do I get insect repellent stains out of my ball gown?

Start by blotting the stain with a clean white cloth. Then mix some liquid laundry detergent with cold water and use a sponge to apply it to the stain. Spread table salt over the stain and let it sit for 4-5 hours. Rinse the area with cold water and pat it dry. Lastly, use white vinegar to dab the stain and rinse until all traces of the vinegar are gone.

Should I throw my gown in the dryer after cleaning?

No, do not put the gown in the dryer – allow it to air dry completely so the stain does not become set.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Insect repellent > Ball gown

Say Goodbye to Insect Repellent Stains on Your Ball Gown Forever!

Ball gowns are an elegant and regal choice for formal events, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to messy stains. When insect repellent splashes on your ball gown, you don’t need to panic – just follow these easy steps and you can easily remove stain without damaging your beautiful dress.

Updated 04 Mar 2023

By Jacobim Mugabe

Before You Begin

Before you start cleaning any stain, you should always read your garment’s care instructions or consult a professional cleaner. Depending on the fabric of your ball gown, the instructions may change.

What You’ll Need

To tackle an insect repellent stain, you’ll need the following:

A few ounces of liquid laundry detergent
White vinegar
Table salt
Cold water
A sponge
A clean, white cloth

Instructions

Blot the stain with white cloth. Don’t rub it, try to gently blot up as much of the insect repellent as you can. Gently press on the stained area and alternate between dry areas of the cloth so it can soak up liquid.
Mix together a solution of cold water and liquid laundry detergent. Dip a sponge into solution and apply it to the stain.
Cover the stain with table salt. Gently press the salt into the fabric.
Allow salt to sit for 4 to 5 hours and then brush it away. The salt will help draw out the stain.
Fold the clean white cloth into quarters and add a few drops of white vinegar. Use the cloth to dab at the stain.
Rinse the area with cold water and gentle patting motions. Be sure to rinse until all traces of the vinegar are gone.
Allow the gown to air dry completely. Do not place it in the dryer as this can set the stain.

Conclusion

Don’t let insect repellent stains ruin your beautiful ball gown. Follow these easy instructions and those pesky stains will be gone in no time!

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