Today's detergents are remarkably effective for general stain removal, but there are a few other products that you should keep on hand to deal with stubborn stains.
1. Bleach. For dingy clothing, white or colored, you need bleach. Chlorine bleach is for white and colorfast clothes, and all-fabric bleach brightens colors. Be sure to follow instructions carefully with chlorine bleach. Add the bleach after the tub is full and just as agitation starts.

2. Enzyme Stain Remover. For stubborn organic stains such as wine, dairy, foods, berries and grasses, you need an enzyme stain remover such as Biz, Axion or Mary Ellen's Stain Remover Formula One for white and colorfast clothes and Formula Two for colored clothes.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide. For fresh bloodstains, the solution is three percent hydrogen peroxide (the kind sold as an antiseptic, not a bleach).

4. Rubbing Alcohol. For ink stains, have rubbing alcohol on hand. Sponge alcohol onto the stain until all ''bleeding'' stops. Let dry and repeat.

5. Prewash Stain Treatment. For a heavily soiled load—like cooking oils and motor oils, especially on synthetics—use a prewash soil and stain remover such as Shout or Spray 'n Wash.