Introduction
Have you ever gone through the panic of seeing that one of your children has colored on your favorite shirt or dress with a crayon? Have no fear, as there are several ways to remove the crayon stain quickly and easily. This article will provide step-by-step instructions and precautions for each method to help you get the crayon out of your clothing and salvage it.
Using a Blunt Knife to Scrape off Crayon
The first method for removing crayon from clothing is by using a blunt knife to scrape off the excess wax. It is important to use a dull knife, as a sharp knife could damage the fabric of the clothing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Lay the stained clothing flat on a hard surface.
- Gently scrape the excess wax off the clothing with the blunt knife.
- Discard the scrapings into a trash can or paper bag.
- Repeat the process until all of the excess wax is removed.
Precautions:
- Be careful not to apply too much pressure while scraping to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Do not use a sharp knife, as this could cause further damage to the clothing.
Placing Clothing in the Freezer
Another option for removing crayon from clothing is to place the clothing in the freezer. The cold temperature will cause the wax to become brittle and easier to remove.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place the stained clothing in a plastic bag and seal tightly.
- Put the sealed bag in the freezer for at least two hours.
- Remove the clothing from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes until the wax is brittle.
- Gently scrape the wax off the clothing with a dull knife.
- Discard the scrapings into a trash can or paper bag.
Precautions:
- Be sure to seal the plastic bag tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming on the clothing.
- Do not leave the clothing in the freezer for more than two hours to avoid damaging the fabric.
Rubbing an Ice Cube over the Stain
Another option for removing crayon from clothing is to rub an ice cube over the stain. The cold temperature of the ice cube will cause the wax to become brittle and easier to remove.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place an ice cube in a plastic bag and seal tightly.
- Gently rub the ice cube over the stained area.
- Continue rubbing until the wax is brittle.
- Gently scrape the wax off the clothing with a dull knife.
- Discard the scrapings into a trash can or paper bag.
Precautions:
- Be sure to use a plastic bag to prevent water from getting on the clothing.
- Do not apply too much pressure while rubbing the ice cube to avoid damaging the fabric.
Covering the Stain with a Paper Towel and Ironing
Another option for removing crayon from clothing is to cover the stain with a paper towel and iron it. The heat from the iron will cause the wax to melt and transfer to the paper towel.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place a paper towel over the stained area.
- Set the iron to low heat.
- Gently press the iron onto the paper towel for 30 seconds.
- Lift the paper towel to check if the wax has transferred to it.
- If necessary, repeat the process until the wax has been fully transferred to the paper towel.
- Discard the paper towel in a trash can or paper bag.
Precautions:
- Be sure to use a paper towel to prevent the wax from transferring to the iron.
- Do not set the iron to a high heat setting, as this could damage the fabric of the clothing.
Applying a Paste of Baking Soda and Water
The final option for removing crayon from clothing is to make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stained area. The baking soda will help to break down the wax and make it easier to remove.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Mix together one tablespoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of water in a bowl.
- Stir until a thick paste is formed.
- Spread the paste over the stained area.
- Let the paste sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Gently scrape the wax off the clothing with a dull knife.
- Discard the scrapings into a trash can or paper bag.
Precautions:
- Be sure to mix the baking soda and water until a thick paste is formed.
- Do not apply too much pressure while scraping to avoid damaging the fabric.
Conclusion
Getting crayons out of clothes does not have to be a difficult task. With the right tools and instructions, you can quickly and easily remove crayon stains from your clothing. Be sure to follow the instructions and precautions for each method to ensure your clothing is saved from a crayon disaster.
