Stains on fabrics that occur after sexual activity can contain semen, vaginal fluid, spermicide and lubricants. Semen and vaginal fluids are protein stains and should be treated with cold water first to prevent "cooking" the stains and setting them more deeply in the fabrics. However, lubricants and spermicides are usually oily stains that require warmer water to lift them from the fabric.

To remove the stains (wet or dry) from washable fabrics, begin by holding the stain face down and flooding the area with cold running water.

This will force the stain away from the fabric fibers. Work a stain remover (Shout, Zout or Vaska Spotoff) or a bit of liquid laundry detergent into the stain as a pretreater to remove any oily stains. Allow the stain remover to work for 5 to 10 minutes and then wash following the care tag directions.

If the fabric is dry clean only, sponge the stained area with a wet clean white cloth. Do not rub, just sponge to lift the stain and take the garment to a professional cleaner.