Nellie’s WOW Stick Stain Remover

Important Note on Laundry Stain Products

Conventional stain removers often rely on undisclosed synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and stronger surfactants or solvents to break down stains.

For clothing, bedding, and items that sit directly on the skin, many people choose to prioritize simpler stain solutions. Soap-based stain sticks are one of the easiest swaps when looking to simplify ingredient exposure in the laundry routine.

What I Avoid

• Undisclosed synthetic fragrances
• Preservatives like methylisothiazolinone
• Optical brighteners
• Petroleum-derived surfactants or solvents
• Artificial dyes

What I Look For

• Traditional soap-based formulas
• Plant-derived ingredients
• Transparent scent systems
• Biodegradable ingredients

Product Description

The Nellie’s WOW Stick is a soap-based stain remover designed to help lift everyday stains like food, oils, grass, and dirt from fabric.

It uses a traditional vegetable soap base paired with plant-derived essential oils for scent, rather than synthetic fragrance blends or detergent-based stain removers.

When entered into the EWG Skin Deep Analyzer, the ingredient list scores a 3, primarily due to essential oil components that may pose sensitization concerns for some individuals — not because of synthetic detergent or preservative content.

Ingredients

Sodium Palmate, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Water, Glycerin, Limonene, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Gluconate, Citral, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil, Linalool, Geraniol

Things to Keep in Mind

This formula is scented with citrus and lemongrass essential oils, so it may not be the best fit for highly sensitive skin, babies, or individuals prone to eczema or fragrance sensitivities.

Compounds like limonene, citral, linalool, and geraniol are naturally occurring constituents of essential oils and are disclosed for allergen transparency.

Essential oils can carry trace contaminants depending on sourcing and processing, which is why I tend to prioritize brands that focus on higher-quality sourcing and certified organic ingredients when possible.

If you’re looking for a completely fragrance-free option, a soap stick without essential oils may be a better fit.