How To Remove Curry Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 24, 2023

Are you looking for an effective way to remove curry stains from your washable fabrics? Have you tried traditional cleaning methods but found them to be ineffective? Look no further, as we have a solution that will leave your fabrics looking as good as new. Keep reading to learn the easy and efficient method for removing curry stains from your washable fabrics and restoring them to their former glory.

COLOR

Yellow

APPEARANCE

A yellowish or orange stain with a slightly runny consistency when fresh.

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 Curry Stains

Curry stains clothes because it contains pigments, such as turmeric, which can adhere to fabric fibers. These pigments are called chromophores and they are responsible for the yellow color of curry. They are also water-insoluble, meaning they do not dissolve in water, which makes it difficult to remove the stain from clothing. Additionally, the oils and fats present in curry can also contribute to staining by binding the pigments to the fabric. The best way to prevent curry stains is by being careful when handling the food and quickly treating any spills with a stain remover or a mixture of dish soap and water before washing the garment.

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Curry Stains

  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Enzyme-based stain remover (such as Zout or OxiClean)
  • Chlorine bleach (for white fabrics only)
  • Hydrogen peroxide (for colored fabrics only)

Step By Step Process To Remove Curry Stains

  1. Blot up as much of the excess curry sauce as possible with a clean, white cloth or paper towel.
  2. Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain and work it into the fabric with your fingers or a brush. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Rinse the garment with cold water to remove the dish soap.
  4. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric, using laundry detergent and an enzyme-based stain remover. Avoid using chlorine bleach on colored fabrics, instead use hydrogen peroxide.
Please note that, it's best to launder the garment as soon as possible after the stain occurs to increase the chances of successful stain removal. If the stain is not completely removed after the first washing, repeat the process before drying the garment as heat can set the stain making it more difficult to remove. Also, please check the care label of the garment before treating the stain and washing, as some fabrics may be damaged by certain products or high heat.

In Brief

Curry stains are caused by pigments, oils and fats present in the food. These pigments are called chromophores and are water-insoluble, making it difficult to remove the stain. To remove curry stains, use a combination of dish soap, white vinegar, baking soda, laundry detergent, enzyme-based stain remover, chlorine bleach, and hydrogen peroxide, depending on the fabric. Launder the garment as soon as possible after the stain occurs, repeat the process if necessary, and check the care label of the garment before treating the stain and washing.

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