How to Remove Common Stains with High Performing Laundry Detergent
By L'AVANT Collective | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to remove stains with laundry detergent using a simple pre-treat and wash process. Includes steps for set-in stains and choosing an eco-friendly stain remover.
Quick answer
To remove most common stains, act fast: blot (don't rub) the excess, apply a small amount of High Performing Laundry Detergent directly to the stain, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then wash as usual in the warmest water the fabric care label allows. For set-in stains, extend the pre-treat time to 30 minutes or overnight before washing.
Why pre-treating makes the difference
Pre-treating gives the detergent time to break down the stain before the wash cycle dilutes it. A concentrated formula like L'AVANT's High Performing Laundry Detergent works well for this because it is designed to tackle tough stains while being gentle on fabrics and delicate skin. It is made without bleach, dyes, phthalates, phosphates, or parabens, so you can pre-treat without worrying about harsh additives. It is also effective in all water temperatures, which means you can match the water temp to the fabric rather than the stain.
Stain-specific pre-treatment tips
Different stains respond to different approaches. For protein stains like blood or dairy, rinse with cold water first; hot water can set them. For grease or oil, apply detergent directly and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing in the warmest water the fabric allows. For tannin stains like coffee, tea, or wine, blot immediately and pre-treat with detergent; if the stain has dried, extend the pre-treat time. For ink or marker, place the stained area face down on a paper towel and apply detergent to the back of the stain, then rinse from the back to push the ink out.
How to handle set-in stains
Set-in stains need more time and patience. After applying detergent directly to the stain, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for very old stains. You can also soak the item in a solution of 1 teaspoon of detergent per gallon of cool water for 30 minutes before washing. Always check the stain before drying; heat from the dryer can set a stain permanently. If the stain remains, repeat the pre-treatment and wash again.
Step-by-step stain removal process
- Step 1: Blot, don't rub: Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to blot up as much of the stain as possible. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers and spread it. Checkpoint: The cloth should be transferring the stain, not spreading it.
- Step 2: Apply detergent directly: Apply a small amount of High Performing Laundry Detergent directly onto the stain. Use just enough to cover the stain without saturating the fabric. Common mistake: Using too much detergent can leave residue that attracts dirt.
- Step 3: Let it sit: Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for 10–15 minutes for fresh stains, or 30 minutes to overnight for set-in stains. This gives the enzymes and surfactants time to break down the stain. Checkpoint: For set-in stains, do not skip the extended dwell time.
- Step 4: Wash as usual: Wash the item according to the care label, using the warmest water temperature the fabric can handle. Add your regular amount of detergent to the wash cycle. Common mistake: Using hot water on protein stains can set them permanently.
- Step 5: Check before drying: Before putting the item in the dryer, inspect the stain. If it is still visible, repeat the pre-treatment and wash again. Drying will set any remaining stain. Checkpoint: When in doubt, air-dry until you are sure the stain is gone.
Product facts
- High Performing Laundry Detergent: L'AVANT's High Performing Laundry Detergent is the #1 selling L'AVANT product because of how good it smells and how well it works. It is formulated to tackle tough stains while being gentle on fabrics and delicate skin, and is made without bleach, dyes, phthalates, phosphates, or parabens. This means you can use it as a pre-treater and everyday detergent without exposing your family to harsh chemicals, and it is safe for delicate fabrics.
- High Performing Dish Soap Refill: The High Performing Dish Soap Refill is made with luxurious, plant-based ingredients and offers concentrated cleaning power. The 32 oz. refill pouch uses 61% less plastic than a standard plastic bottle and refills your glass bottle twice. If you prefer a plant-based pre-treater for grease stains, this dish soap can work in a pinch, and the refill format reduces plastic waste.
