WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
Sometimes brown, rust color or similar dark stains or rings mysteriously appear on a garment after a period of time in home storage or after later cleaning. These particular stains are from contact with protein substances that contain albumin.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The stains usually are irregularly shaped and drip-like in appearance, but can vary in shape, color, and intensity depending upon the actual staining substance itself, as well as the garment it contacts and the length of time it is on the fabric. In some cases, the stained area shows a thin darker edge where the albuminous protein component “wicks out” and coagulates as it oxidizes.

WHAT CAUSED IT?
Albumin is found in many protein-based substances. Protein stains on fabric can be caused by contact with blood, egg, some glues, milk and all dairy by-products,
fish products, and vomit, as well as any other animal (protein) substances or body excretions. In many cases, after a fabric comes into contact with such substances,
the moisture dries out and the remaining residue is invisible. Over a period of time this residue will oxidize and become discolored. The heat of drying or finishing after
cleaning can accelerate the appearance of protein stains.

CAN IT BE PREVENTED?
Albumin stains will dissolve in water quite easily prior to coagulation and/or oxidation. Therefore, the sooner the spillage is flushed out of the fabric thoroughly with cold water, the less chance there is of a permanent stain later. Only the owner of the garment can take such quick action. Whether home stain removal is done or
not, it is advisable to take the stained item immediately to a professional cleaner for more complete care.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?
The responsibility rests with the owner of the garment who came into contact with the albumin during some circumstance of wear, transportation or storage.
Drycleaning does not cause such staining, nor does drycleaning remove albumin, since it is only soluble in moisture solutions.

IS THERE A REMEDY?
Once albumin-based protein stains have been in a fabric for a period of time, they can be very difficult to remove. In some cases, depending on the fabric color and type, professional cleaners can use water-based enzyme solutions to reduce or completely remove albumin.