How To Remove Chili Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 23, 2023

Chili sauce stains on your clothes can be a real challenge to remove, but don't let them ruin your love for the delicious and spicy condiment. In this guide, we'll show you a simple and effective way to remove chili sauce stains from washable fabrics. With our expert tips, you'll be able to enjoy your chili sauce without worrying about ruining your clothes. Keep reading to learn the secrets of removing chili sauce stains from any washable fabric. Say goodbye to unsightly chili sauce stains and hello to fresh, clean clothes and the freedom to enjoy as much chili sauce as you want.

COLOR

Red or brown

APPEARANCE

A reddish or orange stain with a slightly spicy smell.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Hot water helps to break down the sauce and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Chili Stains

Chili stains clothes because it contains pigments called capsaicinoids, which are responsible for the heat in chili peppers. These pigments are oil-soluble, meaning they dissolve in oil and fat but not in water. When chili comes into contact with fabric, the capsaicinoids can penetrate the fibers and bind to the fabric, causing a stain. Additionally, chili often contains other ingredients such as tomato or soy sauce, which can also contribute to staining. To remove chili stains, it is best to use a grease-cutting detergent and hot water, and to treat the stain as soon as possible before it sets in.

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Chili Stains

  • Grease-cutting dish soap or laundry detergent
  • White vinegar or lemon juice
  • Borax or baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • A stiff-bristled brush or toothbrush

Step By Step Process To Remove Chili Stains

  1. Blot the stain to remove as much of the chili as possible.
  2. Apply a small amount of grease-cutting dish soap or laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in with a stiff-bristled brush or toothbrush.
  3. Add 1 cup of white vinegar or lemon juice to the wash cycle, along with the detergent you used in step 2. If the fabric is white, you can also add 1/2 cup of borax or baking soda to the wash cycle.
  4. Wash the garment in the hottest water recommended on the care label of the garment.
  5. Check the stain before drying, if the stain is still visible, apply hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain, leave it for 10 minutes and then wash it again with the same previous instructions.

Note: If the garment is delicate or the stain is particularly stubborn, it may be best to take it to a professional cleaner for treatment.

In Brief

Chili stains are caused by capsaicinoids, which are pigments in chili peppers that are oil-soluble. To remove chili stains from washable fabrics, use grease-cutting dish soap or laundry detergent, white vinegar or lemon juice, borax or baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and a stiff-bristled brush or toothbrush. Blot, scrub the stain and then wash it in the hottest water recommended on the care label. If the stain persists, use hydrogen peroxide and wash it again.

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