METHODS USED IN SPOTTING
The spotter removes spots and stains by using one or more of four following methods:

l Solution
. Emulsification
. Chemical action
. Mechanical action
SOLUTION
A solution is a mixture of two substances, the solvent and the solute. A solution occurs when the solute is dissolved in the solvent. The most common way to remove soils and spots from fabrics is to dissolve them in solvents. In washing, called emulsifiers. In dry cleaning, emulsifiers are water is the chief solvent, while in dry cleaning, perchloroethylene is the chief solvent. Most substances will dissolve in either solvent mentioned above; however, many will not. These substances can be removed using appropriate chemicals. Table 6-4 is a spot and stain removal chart that lists different types of spots and stains and the steps and procedures for removing them. The chemicals used in spot removal will mix with the substance to loosen it so it may be rinsed away. Any clothing articles that are spotted after the wash or dry-cleaning cycle will have to be sent through the cycle again to rinse away any chemicals still remaining in the article. This should be done before you dry or press the material.

Table 6-4.- Spot and Stain Removal Chart

EMULSIFICATION
Any substances that help the solvent in removing stains such as soap or detergent are already part of the dry-cleaning solvent; however, in regular washing, emulsifiers should be added to the solvent (water) to assist it in efficient stain removal.

CHEMICAL ACTION
In chemical action, two or more substances combine to produce one or more totally new substances. These new substances are normally very soluble and can be rinsed away easily. A good example of this is when you use an acid to remove an alkaline spot or use an alkali, like ammonia or sodium bicarbonate, to remove an acid spot. When you do this the two substances react chemically to forma soluble salt that can be rinsed out of the fabric easily.

Table 6-4.- Spot and Stain Removal Chart- Continued
GROUP NO. 2- Stains Containing Tannin.

Spot Appearance Removal Steps

Step No. 1 (l) Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . Dull, absorbed (A) Dampen the area with water. (B) Apply neutral lubricant or tannin type (2) Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Absorbed agent. (C) Tamp with brush, flush with water or (3) Liquor . . . . . . . . . . . . Dull, absorbed steam. (4) Beer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dull, absorbed, ring around Step No. 2 the outside (A) Dampen area with water. (B) Apply neutral lubricant and 28% acetic (5) Soft Absorbed acid. drinks . . . . . . . . . . (C) Tamp with brush, flush with water or steam. (6) Fruit Dull, absorbed juices . . . . . . . . . . . Step No. 3 (A) Dampen the area with cold water. (7) Medicine . . . . . . . . . . Absorbed (B) Apply the general formula. (C) Tamp with brush, flush with cold water (8) Grass . . . . . . . . . . . . . Smeared, dull absorbed only. Step No. 4 (A) Dampen the area with water or steam. (B) Apply rust remover. (C) Never allow rust remover to come into contact with spotting board. (D) Flush with water or steam. Step No. 5 (A) Dampen the area with water or steam. (B) Apply digest powder. (C) Allow digester to remain on stain for at least 15 min. (D) Flush with water or steam. Step No. 6 (A) Dampen the area with water or steam. (B) Spot bleach (Oxidizing). ( C) Flush with water or steam.