How To Remove Coffee Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 24, 2023

Do you find yourself constantly battling coffee stains on your clothes? Have you tried using various cleaning methods but still can't seem to get rid of the unsightly marks? Look no further, as we have a solution that will help you remove coffee stains from your clothes quickly and easily. Keep reading to learn the secrets for eliminating coffee stains from your wardrobe and keeping your clothes looking fresh.

COLOR

Brown

APPEARANCE

A brown stain with a slightly sticky consistency when fresh.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Coffee Stains

Coffee stains clothes because it contains a pigment called tannin, which is a type of dye. When coffee comes into contact with fabric, the tannin in the coffee attaches to the fibers in the fabric, resulting in a stain. Additionally, coffee often contains oils and sugars that can also contribute to staining. The heat from the coffee can also cause the fibers in the fabric to swell, making it easier for the tannin and other substances to penetrate the fabric and cause a stain.

coffee

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Coffee Stains

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Chlorine bleach (for white fabrics only)

Step By Step Process To Remove Coffee Stains

  1. Blot up as much of the coffee as possible with a clean, white cloth.
  2. Mix a solution of 1 tsp of dishwashing liquid, 1 tbsp of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water.
  3. Use the solution to gently scrub the stain, working from the outside in.
  4. Rinse the area with cold water.
  5. Mix a paste of 1 tbsp of baking soda and 1 tbsp of water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Rinse the area with cold water again and check to see if the stain is still visible.
  7. If the stain is still visible, apply a small amount of laundry detergent to the area and rub it in gently.
  8. Rinse the area with cold water again.
  9. If the stain is still visible, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  10. Rinse the area with cold water again and check to see if the stain is still visible.
  11. If the stain is still visible and the fabric is white, use chlorine bleach (if the fabric is safe for bleaching) to remove the stain. Follow the instructions on the bleach label, and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
  12. Wash the garment in cold water and check the stain before putting it in the dryer.
Note: If the garment is colorfast, it's safe to use the above methods. If unsure, test a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding. Also, if the garment is delicate or made of a non-washable fabric, it's best to take it to a professional cleaner.

In Brief

Coffee stains clothes due to the tannin, a type of dye, present in the coffee. To remove coffee stains from washable fabrics, you can use a combination of dishwashing liquid, white vinegar, baking soda, laundry detergent, hydrogen peroxide and chlorine bleach. The process may take several steps, but it can effectively remove the stain. Always test a small inconspicuous area before proceeding and if in doubt, take the garment to a professional cleaner.

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