We Put 30 Laundry Stain Removers to the Test—These Are Our Favorites (2024)

Our Top Picks

Method's Stain Remover was a standout in our testing, scoring high ratings across the board. You can use it on pretty much any tough stain you'll encounter, including grease, blood, grass, oil, food, makeup, and more. The plant-based formula lifts stains with minimal time or elbow grease required. We were wowed and impressed with the great results.

The grass, marker, and syrup were all totally removed, and no residue from the stain or cleaner remains. We were worried about the stain transferring, based on the sudsy-ness of the application process, but it all washed away cleanly. The wine stain showed particularly great improvement, especially in comparison to the other products we tested.

Even better, the noteworthy results are a breeze to come by, thanks to the brush-and-bottle combo. We love that it was extremely easy to use, especially when working with large stains. While we liked the built-in brush, you can also squirt on the product, especially if you're spot-cleaning a small stain.

While the bottle isn't huge, you still get enough to work on really large or tough stains. We think the bristle applicator is a major bonus as the friction really seemed to help lift some of the tougher stains, such as makeup.

_{Type: Pen and brush | Amount: 6 ounces | Scent: Light chemical smell | Application Method: Squeeze and brush on, let stand}

At less than $4, this popular foam stain remover from Shout was also a highly performing product that earned high ratings during our tests. It performed well across the board, removing most stains with ease, and took care of the remaining makeup and wine stains (which were challenges for most of the products we tested).

We also liked the performance and price. Other highlights were its ease of use, unscented formula, and overall value.

We noted that the directions tell you not to let this foam dry on stains. If you're someone who easily gets distracted and can see yourself getting interrupted while doing chores, or if you like to take your time with laundry steps, this product might not work with your usual process. Otherwise, it's a high performing, easy-to-use choice that proved to be effective during our testing process.

_{Type: Spray foam | Amount: 18 ounces | Scent: No noticeable scent | Application Method: Spray and launder before drying}

Another highly performing bar for your consideration is the Meliora Laundry Stain Remover Soap Stick. This stain remover performed better than most. In fact, the vegetable soap formula contains eco-friendly ingredients like coconut and sunflower oil and the brand is committed to sustainable practices, too.

Plus, it's a cinch to use, though the process can be a bit messy in comparison to any spray you might use. All bar applications are a little messier than just spraying something on, but one good part of that is there is no plastic bottle! As for its performance, the bar was very strong across multiple categories, including ease of use, effectiveness, and scent. When it comes to price, it's key to note that this is worth the splurge, given the results. It also has a light, pleasant scented.

_{Type: Bar, stick | Amount: 1, 1.7-ounce bar | Scent: Light soap smell | Application Method: Wet stain and rub the soap on it}

Though the process is different when you're using a powder stain remover, you can still expect impressive and rather quick results that rival liquid and gel spot treatments when using this product. We noted that it seemed to be very effective, especially at removing red wine stains, which other products struggled with. The makeup stain was lightened to some degree, too, earning the product a solid effectiveness score.

With OxiClean stain remover, the length of time you let the product sit can make a big difference. The longer you let the product set, the more it removes the stain. A heads-up that applying the cleaner to the stain takes some effort, because you have to mix the powder in a spray bottle and the process can get messy. You can also use it when pre-soaking laundry, though, and overall it was relatively easy to use.

Keep in mind that OxiClean is formulated with oxygen-based bleach. Extra care is recommended when using it. Be mindful of all safety precautions noted on the container, and check that it's suitable for the fabrics you're hoping to clean. You should never mix cleaners with each other, and always wear protective eyewear and gloves when working with products with bleach.

_{Type: Powder | Amount: 7.2 pounds | Scent: No noticeable smell | Application Method: Mix with water and apply, or pre-soak}

You might not always be near a washing machine when stains hit, which is why you should consider keeping a to-go stain remover handy.These compact pens work quickly to get rid of stains, helping to save the day. After seeing the results of this Tide product, one tester gushed, "I'm so impressed!" Progress was made with each of the stains tested, and grass, marker, and syrup stains were totally removed.

The pen contains a bleach-free formula that can be used on many different fabrics, even some that are dry-cleanable. All you need to do to use it is press the tip of the pen onto the stain to dispense the liquid. Rub it gently across the affected area. Keep in mind that it's not meant to be a substitute for a traditional wash.

The small size and slow application process make this more of an emergency product, or better suited for small areas. In fact, the design and packaging help with that. Plus, the pens come in a three-pack—perfect to stash in one's purse, car, or desk.

_{Type: Pen | Amount: 3 pens | Scent: Light chemical smell | Application Method: Blot stain, press pen tip, rub gently}

A quick response can make all the difference when it comes to stain removal. If you or someone you love is prone to spills—or you simply like to be prepared for anything—you may want to keep this one on hand. This spray performed better on newer stains than set-in ones. It's easy to use, comes in a convenient spray bottle, and is cost-effective.

You have up to 24 hours to wash clothes after you've sprayed them, giving you a bit of flexibility that can be helpful, too. You don't have to completely stop your day to start a load of laundry after a single spill. We also appreciate that there are no dyes or fragrances in the plant-based formula, either. Keep this choice in mind if you're looking to keep a budget and eco-friendly stain remover on hand for quick action on recent spills.

_{Type: Spray | Amount: 16 ounces | Scent: Unscented | Application Method: Spray, wash within 24 hours}

A grease stain doesn't have to be the end of the line for your favorite shirt. This spot remover from Grandma's Secret proved to be efficient at clearing all the stains used in testing, except for the trickiest of the group (the wine stain and foundation in particular) and was easy to use, too. Just apply it to the stain, let it sit, and then wash as usual. The bleach-free formula even promises to work with all water temperatures, adding to its very convenient nature.

When it came to the specific categories we tested, it scored perfectly for ease of use, effectiveness, and scent while still earning a strong rating for value. Most importantly, we recommend it. Why? It just works well and was easy to use.

_{Type: Spray | Amount: 1, 2-ounce bottle and 1, 16-ounce bottle | Scent: No noticeable scent | Application Method: Apply to stain, let stand, then wash}

This product seemed to work better on set-in stains. For those spots and smears that you've been putting off, or that need more attention, it's worth your consideration—as long as it's not wine or foundation, as those faded but were not completely removed. It also has a very light scent, which our tester found to be pleasant.

Of the scrubber itself, the applicator was a hit: "The brush makes me feel like I'm working in the treatment. The only problem with the applicator was when I treated a fresh chocolate stain; for example, the applicator picked up chocolate and would smear it on the next stain. I adapted to avoid that happening. If you treated a fresh, messy stain, you'd want to wipe off the applicator when done," explains our tester. As long as you're mindful of that, this is a solid option for you and all of the set-in stains in your life.

_{Type: Gel | Amount: 3, 8.4-ounce bottles | Scent: Light | Application Method: Apply from bottle, use scrubber to work into stain}

Final Verdict

For an all-around, highly performing stain remover, look no further than Method Stain Remover, our best overall pick. It stood out in our testing for its effectiveness on a variety of stains, and it features a built-in bristle brush and plant-based formula. For another effective choice, consider Shout Advanced Foaming Grease and Oil Laundry Stain Remover (our best value pick), which also scored well across the board and is easy to apply.

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