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If you've never heard of Terre de Sommières, you're not alone.
For more than a century, this natural absorbent clay has been one of Europe's best-kept cleaning secrets. Originally named after the town of Sommières in southern France, it has long been used to absorb grease, oil, wax, and other stains without harsh chemicals or bleaching agents.
Today, it remains one of the simplest and most environmentally friendly ways to remove oily stains from fabrics, upholstery, leather, stone, wood, and many other porous surfaces.
What is Terre de Sommières?
Terre de Sommières is a naturally occurring absorbent mineral composed primarily of bentonite clay. Its extremely porous structure allows it to absorb oils and grease while leaving most dry materials untouched.
Unlike many commercial stain removers, it contains no bleach, solvents, perfumes or detergents, and works purely through physical absorption.
TerraChrom's Terre de Sommières is supplied as a fine mineral powder intended for absorbent applications and is not classified as hazardous under WHMIS 2015.
Why use Terre de Sommières?
Unlike many conventional stain removers, Terre de Sommières works through natural absorption rather than chemical action. Its highly porous mineral structure draws grease and oil away from the surface and into the powder, making it a simple yet remarkably effective solution for many oily stains.
Benefits include:
- 100% natural mineral
- solvent-free
- bleach-free
- reusable for many household applications
- safe on many delicate materials
- simple to use
- no rinsing required for many applications
- virtually odourless
- suitable for indoor use
What can it be used on?
One of Terre de Sommières biggest advantages is its versatility.
It can be used on the following materials and stains, and is most effective on oil-based stains rather than water-based stains such as coffee, wine, fruit juice, or ink.
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How to use Terre de Sommières
Fresh stains
- Remove excess grease without rubbing.
- Cover the stain completely with Terre de Sommières.
- Leave for several hours (overnight is ideal).
- Vacuum or brush away the powder.
- Repeat if necessary.
Older stains
For older or deeply absorbed stains:
- apply a generous layer
- leave overnight (or up to 24 hours)
- remove the powder
- repeat several times if necessary
Because the product works by absorption, multiple treatments may be needed for stubborn stains.
Tips for the best results
- Don't rub the stain before applying.
- Let the powder do the work.
- The longer it remains on the stain, the better it generally performs.
- Vacuuming usually removes the powder more effectively than brushing.
Can it be used on delicate materials?
Terre de Sommières can be used on delicate materials including silk, wool, suede, leather and upholstery.
However, because every material is different, always test a small hidden area first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it remove old stains?
Often, yes. Older stains may require several applications.
Does it bleach fabrics?
No. It absorbs oils rather than chemically bleaching the surface.
Can I use it on coloured fabrics?
Yes, although testing on an inconspicuous area is always recommended.
Can it be used indoors?
Yes. It is commonly used on carpets, furniture, mattresses, and clothing.
Does it work on water stains?
No. It is designed primarily for grease- and oil-based stains.
Final Thoughts
Simple, effective, and naturally powerful, Terre de Sommières has been trusted for generations as one of the easiest ways to remove grease without harsh chemicals.
Whether you're rescuing a favourite shirt, restoring an upholstered chair, or cleaning an oil spot on a workshop floor, this versatile mineral absorbent deserves a place in every home.
