"Any tips on getting rid of stains?" - Jenna, Back Bay

Sweet Sarah
Years of being a bit of a slob, or just plain klutzy, perhaps, means Sweet Sarah has learned it the hard way. So here are some tips we've learned for easing the pain after you get a stain on your favorite clothes.

Red Wine
Quickly apply salt to absorb liquid, then blot with cold water until stain disappears. Or douse the stain with club soda and wash it as soon as possible.

Grease
Rub dishwashing liquid into stain and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then wash in hot water with regular laundry detergent.

Ink
For cottons, saturate stain with rubbing alcohol, then wash. Spray polyester fabrics liberally with hairspray, then pat with a clean, dry cloth. Wash as usual.

Lipstick
Blot with a washcloth dipped in rubbing alcohol.