How To Remove Cockroach Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 24, 2023

Are you tired of being embarrassed by unsightly cockroach stains on your clothes? Have you tried to remove them in the past, but to no avail? Look no further, as we have a foolproof solution to eliminate those tough, long-standing cockroach stains and have your clothes looking as good as new. Keep reading to discover the secret for removing cockroach stains from clothes that have been hidden away for far too long.

COLOR

Various (depending on species)

APPEARANCE

A brown or black stain with a possible smeared appearance.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Hot water helps to kill the cockroaches and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Cockroach Stains

Cockroaches can stain clothes because they excrete a pigment called ommochrome, which is found in their body fluids. This pigment can transfer onto fabrics and other surfaces, leaving behind a yellowish or brownish stain. The stain is difficult to remove because the ommochrome is water-insoluble, meaning it does not dissolve in water, and thus it does not come out in a normal wash. The pigments are also resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents.

cockroach

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Cockroach Stains

  • Dish soap
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Enzymatic cleaner (such as Nature's Miracle or Folex)
  • Laundry detergent

Step By Step Process To Remove Cockroach Stains

  1. Mix a solution of equal parts dish soap and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the solution to the stain and gently rub it in.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda on top of the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour.
  3. Using a clean white cloth, gently blot the stain to remove as much of the solution as possible.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water. Using a clean white cloth, gently blot the stain with the vinegar solution.
  5. Apply an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for protein-based stains such as cockroach stains and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  6. Wash the garment in a washing machine on the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric with laundry detergent and let it air dry.
It is also important to note that if the cockroach stain is not removed after the above steps, it may be permanent and may require professional cleaning. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the garment is not dried in a dryer before checking if the stain has been completely removed, as heat can set the stain making it more difficult to remove.

In Brief

Cockroaches excrete a water-insoluble pigment called ommochrome that can transfer onto fabrics and leave yellowish or brownish stains. The stains are difficult to remove. To remove the stain, a mixture of dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, white vinegar, enzymatic cleaner and laundry detergent is required. It should be washed in the washing machine on the hottest water setting with laundry detergent and then air dried. It is important to check if the stain is completely removed before putting it in the dryer.

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