Solutions send barbecue stains packing

It's almost summer again and there's nothing more delicious on a hot summer day than a cold beer with a grilled hot dog, hamburger or, my favorite, Polish sausage. I must have holes in my lips because every time I dig in, the mustard and catsup goes everywhere and usually all over my shirt.

If that happens to you, don't fret and please don't wash that item until you try this.

First, scrap off and soak up as much of the mustard as possible. Get some liquid dishwashing soap (non-bleaching) and mix one tablespoon of it into one cup of water, blot the spot using the soap and let the solution soak in the material for about five to seven minutes.

Scrub the stain with a used tooth brush and then rinse with cool water.

If the stain is still there, soak the spot with some vinegar and then rinse with cool water. If the stain is still there, bleach the spot with some hydrogen peroxide.

For catsup or tomato sauce stains, the procedure is a little different. Again, get some liquid dishwashing soap (non-bleaching).

Mix one tablespoon of it into a cup of water. Blot the spot using the soap-and-water mixture and let it stand for about five minutes.

Scrub the stain with a toothbrush and then rinse with cool water. Don't use hot water or you will set the stain.

If the stain is still there, mix two tablespoons of household ammonia into 1/2 cup of water. Blot the stain with the solution for about three to five minutes.

Finally, rinse the spot with cool water and the spot should be gone. If not, repeat the process again.

If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabrics and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene decontamination and cleanup.