Apart from baking soda, you can use talcum powder and cornstarch as well. They also serve as absorbents. If you’re dealing with a stain that’s turning brown, soak it in lemon juice and cover with salt instead. While the salt will act as an absorbent for oil, the lemon juice will act as a harmless bleaching solution. [3] X Research source Another option is to soak it in baking soda. Add a bit of baking soda to a bowl and fill it halfway with water. Let the stained piece soak in for about 24 hours and then wash it as usual.
Treating the stain with baking soda might be enough for it to disappear. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to do a few more steps until completion. [5] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
Whatever you do, avoid putting the fabric into the dryer before the stain is completely gone. Otherwise, the temperature in the dryer might help the stain to set. [9] X Research source
Brushing absorbents off is allowed when treating washable fabrics, but it’s not recommended when it comes to carpets and upholstery. By using a brush, you’re risking pushing both the absorbent and the sunscreen deeper into the material.
If the stain is still visible, try removing it using water and dish soap. Simply mix 2 cups (470 mL) of cold water with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of dish soap. Using this solution and a clean cloth, sponge the stained area until you’ve removed the stain completely. [12] X Research source
If you don’t want to use dry-cleaning solvent, you can leave the absorbent to sit longer instead. You should leave it for at least 6 hours before vacuuming it. Once you’ve finished vacuuming, the stain should be gone.