I've always been proactive about treating stains quickly, but there were some items in my closet I thought were hopeless. That changed when I discovered a liquid glycerin hack from the '60s, and I was amazed by the outcome.

Liquid glycerin, often used for coughs, can effectively lift even the toughest stains. Skeptical at first, I tried it on two different stains and was pleasantly surprised. Now, liquid glycerin is a staple in my stain-fighting arsenal.

Why Liquid Glycerin Works for Stain Removal

A glass pipette with viscous clear liquid spilling onto a glass circle

(Image credit: Getty Images / Elena Noviello)

Glycerin acts as a natural solvent, breaking down stains in fabric by bonding with their particles, which makes them easier to wash away. Its hydrating properties draw in water and hold moisture, which helps to soften dried stains. It's so effective that the Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute utilizes it.

Even better, glycerin is safe and non-toxic, making it a key component on my list of must-have non-toxic essentials, reducing harmful products in my laundry.

Glycerin is both affordable and multifunctional, making it an excellent option for those looking to save money and be eco-friendly.

Materials Needed

Steps to Use Glycerin for Stain Removal

A glass jug filled with water, a bottle of glycerin, an old toothbrush, and a white cloth

Keep a cloth nearby for any sticky situations.

(Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)

For both stains, the process was consistent.

  1. Apply the glycerin – I poured a small amount directly onto the stain and spread it using the toothbrush. My mom found her finger worked too, though it gets very sticky!
  2. Allow it to sit – Patience is key here. I let it rest for about 15 minutes.
  3. Scrub with a damp toothbrush – Normally, scrubbing isn't advised, but these old stains were stubborn. Using a toothbrush soaked in warm water, I scrubbed until I saw improvement.
  4. Rinse and wash – After seeing the results, I rinsed the fabric under warm water before tossing it in the washing machine, laundering normally. The stains disappeared!

Ecover Zero Wool & Mild Detergent in clear bottle with twist top lid. The label says Fragrance-Free 1l (22 Loads)Dermatologically tested

Ecover has become a favorite among my family. I use it for eczema, my mom for psoriasis, and my grandmother for respiratory sensitivities. It's gentle on delicate fabrics.

A blue plastic tub of oxiclean stain remover powder with a yellow snap on lid5 lbs resealable tub

While glycerin is my go-to for more difficult stains, oxygen bleach is great for quick treatment on newer stains.

Great Value Distilled White Vinegar, 64 Fl OzBestseller

White vinegar is another effective laundry hack, serving as a deodorizer and a cleaner for your washing machine. It helps eliminate detergent residue from towels, bedding, and clothing.

Results of the Experiment

The first item I tackled was a dress with old sweat and deodorant stains that had yellowed the fabric. Despite washes, the stains persisted.

Scrubbing at a yellow stain with a purple toothbrush
AFTER: A clean toothbrush made scrubbing easy. The stains lifted like magic. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)
A cream and black dress with a yellowing stain in the armpit
BEFORE: The yellow stains were visible and detracted from the dress's appearance. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)

Before

A shiny spot over a yellow stain on the armpit of a cream dress
We allowed the glycerin to sit for 15 minutes.
Comparing two armpits on a cream dress, one stained, one clean
AFTER: The contrast between the cleaned and uncleaned sides was remarkable. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)

After

The glycerin worked wonders, although one side required two treatments with drying in between to fully remove the stains. After washing, the dress looks brand new, ready for my mom's trip.

The second test was on a blood stain that had been through the wash multiple times, making it rather stubborn on my pajama shirt.

Some old, small blood stains on a beige top
These small blood stains were my first trial before tackling larger stains. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)
A wet patch over some old blood stains on a beige top
A little glycerin goes a long way in treatment. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)
A wet patch over some old blood stains on a beige top
It seemed to worsen before improving, as the glycerin rehydrated the stain. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)
Fading blood stains on an beige top
Halfway through, I decided to try another round of treatment. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)
A clean beige top
After another glycerin application and a regular laundry cycle, the shirt was like new. (Image credit: Future / Chiana Dickson)

This needed a couple of glycerin treatments to fully lift the stains, but significant progress was visible after the first attempt. While this method isn't a quick fix, with some time and attention, it can extend the life of your clothes and linens.

I look forward to trying this technique on my bedding to tackle discoloration, but I'll need to dedicate some time to scrub such a large area.

A long rectangular blue cardboard box with a wool dryer ball visible through a cut-out in the center.Pack of three

Switch to wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets for a non-toxic laundry routine. They speed up drying without chemical residues.

A large white plastic detergent bottle with a green screw cap lid.60 loads

This detergent is free from fragrances and dyes, focusing on your health and the environment.

A large clear plastic bottle of laundry liquid, with a pink screw cap and a white and pink label.Biodegradable

For those who still prefer fabric softener, Ecover is a great choice. Made from plant-based ingredients, it's safe for sensitive skin.

This classic laundry hack has become a mainstay for me and my mom, and it's just one of many effective cleaning tips that can help you improve your cleaning routine.