How To Remove Chlorophyll Stain From Washable Fabrics

February 14, 2023

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants that allows them to carry out photosynthesis. While it's a vital component for plant life, it can be a nuisance when it gets on your clothes. Chlorophyll stains can be particularly stubborn, as the green color can easily penetrate the fabric. Whether you're gardening, hiking, or just enjoying the great outdoors, it's all too easy to get a chlorophyll stain on your favorite clothes. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to successfully remove chlorophyll stains from washable fabrics. In this article, we'll explore some of the most effective techniques and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get your clothes looking like new again.

COLOR

Green

APPEARANCE

These stains may appear as a green mark on the fabric and could be slightly sticky or dry. They may also have a plant-like smell.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the green pigment from setting and spreading.

The Science Behind Chlorophyll Stains

Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants that is responsible for the green color of leaves. It can stain clothes because it is a natural dye that is not water-soluble. When chlorophyll comes into contact with clothing fibers, it can bind to them and create a green stain. This is similar to how other natural dyes, such as those found in berries or beets, can also stain clothes. To remove chlorophyll stains, it is best to treat the stain as soon as possible with a pre-treatment product or a solution of vinegar and water before washing the item in the washing machine.

chlorophyll

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Chlorophyll Stains

  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Enzyme-based laundry detergent
  • Stain pre-treatment product (e.g., Shout)
  • Clean, white cloth or paper towels
  • Bucket or sink
  • Washing machine

Step By Step Process To Remove Chlorophyll Stains

  1. Scrape off any excess chlorophyll from the fabric using a spoon or dull knife.
  2. Flush the stained area with cool water to remove as much of the stain as possible.
  3. Apply a stain pre-treatment product (e.g., Shout) directly to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the stained area with cool water.
  5. Make a cleaning solution by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dishwashing soap, and 2 cups of cool water in a bucket or sink.
  6. Soak the stained garment in the cleaning solution for 30 minutes.
  7. After soaking, remove the garment from the solution and blot the stained area with a clean, white cloth or paper towels to absorb as much moisture as possible.
  8. If the stain remains, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
  9. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water temperature allowed for the fabric, using an enzyme-based laundry detergent.
  10. Check the stained area before drying the garment. If the stain remains, repeat the above steps before drying.
It's important to note that you should always check the care label on your garment before attempting to remove any stain, as some fabrics may be sensitive to certain treatments. Also, always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the garment before applying it to the stained area.

In Brief

Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants that can stain clothes due to its natural dye properties. To remove the stain from washable fabrics, first, scrape off any excess chlorophyll, then rinse with cool water and apply a stain pre-treatment product. Soak the garment in a cleaning solution of white vinegar, dishwashing soap, and water before washing it in the machine with an enzyme-based detergent on the hottest water temperature allowed for the fabric. Repeat as needed before drying. Always check the care label and test any solution first.

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