Stains happen to all of us, but with the right care, you can save your dress.

Common stains and how to remove them:

- Makeup stains (lipstick, foundation): Gently dab with a little liquid soap or dishwashing detergent mixed with lukewarm water. Don’t rub—it can spread the stain or damage the fabric. An alternative is to use micellar water, which is both gentle and effective.

- Greasy food (oil, butter, sauce): Sprinkle potato starch, cornstarch, or baby powder over the stain to absorb the grease. Gently brush off the powder, then treat with dish soap to remove the residue.

- Wine, coffee, or tea: Rinse the stain immediately with cold water—preferably from the back side of the fabric. Apply a mild detergent or stain remover to help break down the stain.

- Blood: Use cold water to rinse out the blood. Warm water will cause the blood to coagulate and set in. You can also add a bit of dish soap or salt to help dissolve the stain faster.

Gall soap for stubborn stains:

Gall soap, made with ox bile, is an effective and gentle option for fatty or protein-based stains like blood or food grease. Wet the stain and the soap, gently massage it in, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or wash normally, depending on the garment's care instructions. Always test on a small hidden area first, especially if the fabric is delicate.

When should you consider dry cleaning or professional help?

If your garment has a “Dry Clean Only” label, or if the stain is particularly tough (such as paint, heavy discoloration, or tar), it’s best to contact a professional cleaner. They have the right products and expertise to remove stains without damaging the fabric.

Tip: For unwanted odors, like smoke or sweat, try hanging the dress outside in fresh air. Often, that’s enough to eliminate the smell without needing to wash the entire garment.