Onebyone

I add the phosphate back to the detergent. I add a teaspoon of Trisodium phosphate to my laundry that needs the extra cleaning power. I add a 1/4 teaspoon to the dishwasher detergent. It's sold in 1lb boxes about $9. I'm on the second year use of one box. [h=1][/h]

NJ Quilter

We've talked about the water softener as well. I did find an item, 'scale blaster', that we are considering trying. It's online only from home depot. Supposed to break down the lime and calcium in the water. Reviews were somewhat mixed but certainly more favorable than not. If it doesn't work then at least we can get our $$ back with the home depot return policy. Just haven't gotten around to ordering it yet.

NJ Quilter

Who knew!?!? Going to give this a try as well. I guess I would get this at the hardware store???

You folks are just a wealth of knowledge. Thank you all so much. None of the pre-treating; soaking; etc. that I have tried so far does squat. I've done oxyclean; shout; dirty jobs; dawn; don't even remember all the stuff I've tried. The collars come out halfway decent but the sleeves/cuffs...oy vey!

sewmuch

I, too, am an Awesome user, if it happens to not work Dawn usually will....

Tudey

I buy Zout at Walmart and it works well...not too pricey either!

Mariah

I use Simple Green on most everything cleaning-stain wise. Then I use a pre-wash with a little liquid laundry detergent, and this works really well. My DH does a lot of yard work and gets lots of grass, dirt, grease; you name it. The pre-wash I am sold on; it loosens the stains and makes the clothes come out so much cleaner. It is a separate cycle on my machine; a Crosley; love it!! Mariah

Onebyone

You can find the powder form at Lowe's, Walmart, Home Depot, etc. and any paint store. There is also a liquid form too. Usually sold with the name of TSP on the box. It is used by the barrels full commercially. Did you know Trisodium phosphate is commonly used as a food additive? It's the same stuff they took out of the detergent. LOL This is straight from Snopes: Trisodium phosphate, a food additive common in cereals like Lucky Charms and Cheerios
Read more at http://www.snopes.com/food/ingredien...GQXbr601TMZ.99

callen

I put a little bit of Dawn dish soap on my DH's shirts (rub it in a little) & cleans up his collars great !! Don't have a problem with his sleeves but I think it would work there too.

quiltinglady-1

I have used Awesome and it works great. I, also, use Greased Lightening to spot treat and to clean my stove. As the name says, it's great on grease.

sewinggirl

I found Lestoil to be wonderful..even gets old stains out. If it doesn't work on the first laundry continue for another few times...works wonders !! I just put it on the stain and let it sit a few minutes before putting in the wash.