The Twelve Lists of Christmas

6 Stain Stoppers to Have on Hand

1. A white cloth, for blotting spills.

2. White vinegar or lemon juice, to bleach out coffee and tea stains. Flush the item with water, then machine wash.

3. Tide to Go―a stain-removal pen that helps get sticky, sugary splotches out of tablecloths and napkins.

4. Cornstarch for oily stains on, say, a couch. (It will help absorb residual oil.)

5. Salt. Remove a red-wine spill with this kitchen staple: Stretch out the stained fabric over a bowl, sprinkle on a liberal amount of salt, and, from the height of one foot, pour boiling water over the stain. Wash as usual.

6. Wisk. Keep this “digestant” or some other reliable brand (such as Era) on hand. Use a solution of one tablespoon mixed with two cups water to treat food stains, such as chocolate. Let stand for 20 minutes, then machine wash.