How To Remove Antifreeze Stain From Washable Fabrics
January 23, 2023
Are you dealing with unsightly antifreeze stains on your clothes? Don't let it ruin your favorite fabrics, we've got the solution for removing those tough stains for you. Keep reading to learn how to remove antifreeze stain from washable fabrics.
COLOR
Bright green
APPEARANCE
A clear or greenish liquid with a sweet smell.
WATER TEMP
Hot (120° to 140°F)
RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP
Hot water helps to dissolve the antifreeze and make it easier to remove.
The Science Behind Antifreeze Stains
Antifreeze stains clothes because it contains dyes and pigments that can stick to fabric fibers. Antifreeze is basically ethylene glycol. It is often mixed with dyes for easy identification or leak detection. These dyes and pigments are insoluble in water, meaning they do not dissolve and can be left behind on fabric after the antifreeze dries. When the antifreeze comes into contact with fabric, it can transfer some of these dyes and pigments, leaving behind a discoloration or stain.
What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Antifreeze Stains
- Water
- Dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Laundry detergent
- Stain remover
Step By Step Process To Remove Antifreeze Stains
- First, remove as much of the antifreeze as possible by gently scraping it off with a spoon or butter knife.
- Next, rinse the stain with cold water to remove as much of the remaining antifreeze as possible.
- Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a sudsy solution. Apply the solution to the stain and gently rub it in with a cloth or brush.
- For any remaining stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the garment with laundry detergent.
- If the stain is still present, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- After the baking soda paste has had time to sit, use a damp cloth to gently rub the paste off of the fabric. Rinse the fabric with warm water to remove any remaining baking soda.
- If the stain is still not completely removed, use a stain remover specifically designed for removing antifreeze stains and follow the instructions on the product.
Please note that some fabrics may not be suitable for using white vinegar, so it's important to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first. Also, some products may be harsh for certain fabrics, so always check the label and do a patch test before using them.
In Brief
Antifreeze stains are caused by dyes and pigments that stick to fabric fibers and are insoluble in water. To remove the stain, first scrape off excess antifreeze, then rinse with cold water and use a mixture of dish soap and warm water. For remaining stains, mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use laundry detergent. If stain persists, make a paste with baking soda and water and use a stain remover specifically designed for antifreeze stains. Always test products on a small area of the fabric first.
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