The end of vacations can be a stressful time for parents. It may be unwise to assume that bags that were cleaned last term will continue to stay clean. You must take a stock of your child’s uniforms and bags at the end of every term to ensure that they don’t look shabby or worn out. A stain on their shirt will dent your reputation. Give below are some effective tips to help you deal with the back-to-school stress.
1) Removing Water Based Stains from Uniforms
Water based stains can be those of juice stains or fruit which can be easily removed from the fabric. Blot the stain and remove as much of the stain liquid as you can. Now, pour a liquid detergent directly onto the stain. Surf Excel Matic Liquid leaves no residue (like powders do) as being a liquid it dissolves completely in water. Wait for a few minutes. Scrub the liquid on the stain so that it is dislodged from the fabric of your garment. Wash off the detergent with plain water.
2) Removing Oil Based Stains from Uniforms
Oil based stains can be those of food, markers, pens, etc. Removing the oil-based stains is tricky. Treat the stains with nail polish remover. If you are not satisfied with the results, try treating the stains with liquid detergent as described above.
3) Cleaning School Bags
Invert the bag and shake it to remove loose dirt. Now, get rid of small dirt debris from the corners of your bag using a vacuum cleaner. Wash the school bag as per the instructions on the care label.
4) Cleaning Backpacks
Older kids may be using backpacks at school. Thankfully, most of them can be machine washed. Read the care label to understand the cleaning instructions. Nylon and canvas backpacks are safe to be machine washed. Turn the bags inside out to ensure that the straps are contained. You do not want them snagging against your machine drum. Check all the smaller pockets and zips. Small items like coins can end up damaging your washing machine motor. Please check all the cleaning products on an inconspicuous area of the bag to avoid any untoward reaction. If you are using a top-load washing machine, you can use Surf Excel Matic Liquid Top Load, which is specially formulated for top-load washing machines. Whereas, if you are using a front load washing machine, you can use Surf Excel Matic Liquid Front Load. It leaves no residue (like powders do) as being a liquid it dissolves completely in water. Choose the cold cycle as lower temperature will prevent damage to the fabric of your bag and prevent it from shrinking. Dry the backpacks in a shaded place, away from direct sunlight.
5) Cleaning Water Bottle
To clean your child’s tiffin box, soak it in a soapy solution. Mix 2 tsp. of dishwashing liquid in ½ bucket of warm water. Fill the solution into the water bottle as well to soak the insides. Drop it in this solution and soak it overnight or for a minimum of 2-3 hours. Then, empty the bottle and scrub with a toothbrush. Wash a couple of times to clean it thoroughly.
6) Cleaning Tiffin Box
Start by washing the tiffin box with plain water. It will help scrub the surface and stains effectively. Scrub them with 3-4 drops of dishwashing liquid and scrub pad and wash it. To clean any tough greasy stains, mix 1 tbsp. of vinegar and 2-3 drops of dishwashing liquid and scrub with it. The acidic properties of vinegar help break away the stains easily. Wash it and allow air drying.
You want your child to make a great impression on his/her first day. Ensure that the uniforms are stain and odour free, the shoes are shining bright and the bags look as good as new.