Washing a stained shirt right away can make a significant difference in the chances of successfully removing the stain. Acting quickly helps prevent the stain from setting into the fabric and becoming more challenging to remove. The longer a stain sits on the fabric, the deeper it can penetrate, making it harder to completely get rid of.
Here's what you can do if you stain your shirt:
Immediate treatment: As soon as you notice the stain, blot it gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb any excess liquid or material. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can spread it further.
Pre-treatment: If you have access to water or a cleaning agent (like a stain remover), apply it to the stained area immediately. You can use cold water to flush the stain from the backside of the fabric, which can help push it out rather than pushing it further in. If you don't have a specific stain remover, even basic dish soap can work in a pinch.
Avoiding heat: If the stain is particularly stubborn, avoid exposing the garment to heat (like putting it in the dryer) until you've successfully removed the stain. Heat can set the stain, making it more challenging to remove later.
Washing immediately: If you have access to laundry facilities, it's generally a good idea to wash the stained shirt as soon as possible. If you don't have enough clothes to fill a whole load, you can wash it separately. Most washing machines today have settings for smaller loads or even hand-wash/delicate cycles that are suitable for a single item.
Check before drying: After washing the shirt, check the stained area before putting it in the dryer. Make sure the stain is entirely gone. If it's still visible, repeat the pre-treatment and washing process until the stain is gone.
By washing the shirt right away, you increase the likelihood of effectively removing the stain. If you don't have other items to put in the load with it, you can still wash it separately without any issues. It's better to address the stain promptly rather than waiting and potentially making the stain more permanent or difficult to remove.