How To Remove Beet Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 23, 2023

Are you tired of dealing with unsightly beet stains on your clothes after meal prepping or cooking with beets? Don't let it happen again! We've got the solution for removing those tough stains from your clothes. Keep reading to learn how to remove beet stain from washable fabrics.

COLOR

Purple

APPEARANCE

A purple or dark red stain with a slightly thick consistency when fresh.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Warm water helps to loosen the stain and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Beet Stains

Beets stain clothes because they contain pigments called betalains, which can stick to fabric fibers. Betalains are a type of water-soluble pigment that are found in the red-purple color of beets. These pigments are very sensitive to pH changes and can easily be transferred to clothes when in contact with them. When beets come into contact with fabric, it can transfer some of these pigments, leaving behind a discoloration or stain. To prevent beets from staining clothes, it is best to wear old clothing or an apron while handling them and to rinse off the beet juice immediately after it comes into contact with clothing. Additionally, it's a good idea to wash the clothes separately or with similar colors to avoid discoloration.

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Beet Stains

  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Lemon juice
  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover

Step By Step Process To Remove Beet Stains

  1. First, remove as much of the beet stain as possible by gently scraping it off with a spoon or butter knife.
  2. Next, 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.
  3. 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.
  4. If the stain is still present, make a paste using baking soda and lemon juice. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
  5. 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.
  6. If the stain is still not completely removed, use a stain remover specifically designed for removing beet 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 beet stains as they can set in quickly and become harder to remove.

In Brief

Beets stains are caused by pigments called betalains that stick to fabric fibers. To remove the stain, first scrape off excess beet juice, then 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 lemon juice and use a stain remover specifically designed for beet stains. Always test products on a small area of the fabric first and act fast as beet stains can set quickly and become harder to remove. Additionally, it's a good idea to wash the clothes separately or with similar colors to avoid discoloration.

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