As a textile care specialist with years of experience in dealing with various fabric issues, I've encountered numerous cases of nicotine stains on clothing. Nicotine stains are notoriously stubborn, but with the right approach, they can be effectively removed. Here's a comprehensive guide to tackling this problem:

Pre-Treatment
Before you begin, it's essential to pre-treat the stained area. This step involves applying a stain remover or a detergent directly to the fabric. You can use a commercial stain remover or a mild detergent mixed with water. Apply this solution to the stain and gently rub it in to loosen the nicotine particles from the fabric fibers.

Soaking
The next step is to soak the stained fabrics. As mentioned, soaking is crucial for heavily stained fabrics. The soaking process helps to further break down the nicotine particles, making them easier to remove. Use warm water for this process, as it aids in the dissolution of nicotine. Soak the fabric for a minimum of 15 minutes, but for more heavily stained areas, you might want to extend this to 30 minutes or even longer.

Rinsing and Wring Out
After soaking, remove the fabric from the water and rinse it thoroughly with warm water. This step helps to wash away the loosened nicotine particles. Be sure to wring or squeeze out the excess water from the fabric after rinsing. This will prevent the stain from setting back into the fabric if it's not completely removed.

Spot Treatment with Rubbing Alcohol
If the stains persist after the initial treatment, you can resort to using rubbing alcohol, also known as surgical spirit. Dampen a clean sponge with the rubbing alcohol and gently dab at the stained areas. The alcohol acts as a solvent that can break down the nicotine stains. Be cautious not to rub too hard, as this can damage the fabric.

Washing
Once you've treated the stains with rubbing alcohol, it's time to wash the garment. Use a gentle cycle with cold water to avoid setting any remaining stains. Add a small amount of detergent and follow the care instructions on the garment's label.

Drying
After washing, dry the garment according to its care label. If possible, air-dry the item in the sun, as the UV rays can help to further break down any remaining nicotine particles.

Final Inspection
Finally, inspect the garment for any remaining stains. If necessary, repeat the process. It's important to be patient and persistent, as nicotine stains can be particularly tenacious.

Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it won't cause damage or discoloration. And always follow the manufacturer's care instructions for the best results.

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Soak the stained fabrics for a minimum of 15 minutes, or longer for more heavily stained fabrics. Remove, rinse with warm water, and wring or squeeze out the excess water. If the stains persist, dampen a sponge with rubbing alcohol (also known as surgical spirit) and dab at them until they are gone.read more >>