How To Remove BBQ Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 23, 2023

Are you tired of unsightly BBQ stains ruining your clothes after a summer cookout? Don't let it happen again! We've got the solution for removing those tough stains from your washable fabrics. Keep reading to learn how to remove BBQ stain from washable fabrics.

COLOR

Various (depending on sauce)

APPEARANCE

Usually a dark brown or black stain with a smoky or greasy appearance.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Hot water helps to dissolve the grease and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind BBQ Stains

BBQ sauce stains clothes because it contains pigments, oils and sugars that can stick to fabric fibers. These pigments, oils and sugars are insoluble in water, meaning they do not dissolve and can be left behind on fabric after the BBQ sauce dries. Additionally, when the BBQ sauce comes into contact with fabric, it can transfer some of these pigments, oils and sugars, leaving behind a discoloration or stain. To prevent BBQ sauce from staining clothes, it is best to wear old clothing or an apron while grilling and to rinse off the sauce immediately after it comes into contact with clothing.

bbq

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of BBQ Stains

  • Club soda
  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover

Step By Step Process To Remove BBQ Stains

  1. First, remove as much of the bbq sauce as possible by gently scraping it off with a spoon or butter knife.
  2. Next, soak the stain with club soda for a few minutes to loosen the sauce.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. If the stain is still not completely removed, use a stain remover specifically designed for removing BBQ 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. Also, it is important to act fast on BBQ stains as they can set in quickly and become harder to remove.

In Brief

BBQ sauce stains are caused by pigments, oils and sugars that stick to fabric fibers and are insoluble in water. To remove the stain, first scrape off excess BBQ sauce, then soak with club soda, 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 BBQ stains. Always test products on a small area of the fabric first and act fast as BBQ stains can set quickly and become harder to remove.

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