Contributor Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in contributing to Stain Wiki. We’re obsessed with one thing: stain removal. Real methods. Real materials. Real results.

Please read these guidelines carefully before pitching. They exist to protect readers, respect materials, and elevate your work.

At Stain Wiki, we value lived experience and lab-worthy clarity. The best articles blend hands-on know‑how with evidence and safety. Cite reputable sources (SDS sheets, manufacturer technical docs, recognized industry organizations, peer‑reviewed literature) and share what you’ve actually tried—what worked, what failed, and why. Trust is earned here. Accuracy comes first.

What We Are Looking For

We accept articles that are:

  • Original: 100% unique, unpublished anywhere else (including your own blog or newsletter).
  • Actionable: Step-by-step protocols with measurements, dwell times, water temperatures, and material-specific variations. Don’t just say “blot.” Show how, with what, and for how long.
  • Evidence‑based: Support claims with citations to credible sources (e.g., SDS/ingredient documentation, manufacturer guidance, IICRC-informed best practices, academic or trade references). Link out sparingly and only to authoritative resources.
  • Safety‑first: Include precautions (PPE where relevant), ventilation notes, spot-testing instructions, and clear “do not mix” warnings. Never suggest risky combinations (e.g., bleach + ammonia).
  • Depth: Generally 1,200–2,000 words. Longer is welcome if every section earns its keep.
  • Structured: Use clear headings, numbered steps, checklists, and quick-reference summaries. Readers should be able to skim and succeed.
  • Visually supported: Before/after photos or process images are encouraged (must be original, with permission). Include alt text that describes the image and material.
  • Ethical and transparent: Disclose affiliations, gifted products, or sponsorships. We prioritize unbiased analysis.

Great submissions often include:

  • A short overview of the stain chemistry involved (e.g., protein, tannin, oil-based, dye/ink, oxidizable, particulate, mineral/rust, mildew).
  • Material considerations (e.g., cotton vs. wool vs. silk; nylon vs. polyester carpet; leather vs. microfiber; sealed vs. unsealed stone).
  • A “What you’ll need” kit list with exact product names, concentrations, and safe alternatives.
  • Variations by severity (fresh vs. set-in) and by colorfastness. Always include a colorfastness test step.
  • A “What NOT to do” section to prevent irreversible damage.
  • Clear cleanup and disposal guidance when chemicals are used.

Topics of Interest

  • Stain-type playbooks: wine, coffee, tea, chocolate, blood, grease, motor oil, ink, dye transfer, rust, grass, makeup, sunscreen, deodorant, mildew.
  • Material-specific care: silk, wool, linen, denim, performance fabrics, leather/suede, microfiber, carpets (nylon, polyester, wool), rugs, upholstery codes (W/S/WS/X), sealed/unsealed stone, grout, wood finishes.
  • Emergency spill protocols: fast, field-tested steps for high-stakes moments (red wine on white carpet, blood on silk, oil on suede, marker on leather).
  • Product science explained: enzymes, surfactants, solvents, oxidizers, builders—how they work, when to use them, and when to avoid.
  • Comparative testing and case studies: product A vs. product B on the same stain/material with controlled methods and documented outcomes.
  • Eco-forward and family/pet-safe approaches: low-VOC options, ventilation, graywater-aware practices, and biodegradable choices.
  • Myth-busting: popular internet hacks evaluated for safety and efficacy.
  • Laundry troubleshooting: dingy whites, lingering odors, set-in stains, dye migration, hard-water issues.
  • Pro techniques: spotting charts, pH ladders, dwell time strategies, staged remediation, heat vs. no-heat decisions.
  • Reading labels like a pro: care symbols, fiber content, finish treatments, and how they change your approach.

What We Do Not Accept

  • Press releases, sales pitches, or affiliate-first content.
  • Posts with excessive self-promotion or link schemes (including private networks or paid links).
  • Content generated entirely by AI tools without rigorous human editing, testing, and fact-checking.
  • Unsafe, misleading, or irresponsible advice (e.g., mixing bleach and ammonia; using acetone on acetate; ignoring ventilation and PPE).
  • Medical claims, health diagnoses, or instructions beyond household stain care.
  • Plagiarized, scraped, spun, or previously published content.
  • Unattributed images or images you don’t have the rights to use.

How to Submit

Please send a brief pitch (2–3 sentences describing your idea) and links to two samples of your previous writing via the contact us page. If we’re interested, we will reply within 5 business days.

To help us evaluate quickly, include:

  • Working title, target reader, and why this topic matters now.
  • A short outline (H2/H3s) and the specific stain/materials you’ll cover.
  • Three authoritative sources you plan to cite (e.g., SDS or manufacturer docs).
  • Any original photos you can provide, with captions and alt text.
  • Relevant experience that shows your E‑E‑A‑T (hands-on projects, certifications, professional background, or notable publications).

We can’t wait to learn from your experience. Bring the science. Bring the nuance. Most of all, bring methods that help readers save their favorite things.