How To Remove Flea Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 25, 2023

Are you tired of dealing with unsightly flea stains on your washable fabrics? Look no further! Discover the simple, effective solution to removing these stubborn stains and restoring your fabrics to their former glory.

COLOR

Reddish-brown

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as small, dark spots on the fabric. They may be reddish-brown or black in color and may be accompanied by a musty or sour smell. They are often caused by flea droppings and are commonly found on pet bedding or clothing.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Flea Stains

Fleas excrete a small amount of blood when they bite, which can leave reddish-brown stains on clothing. This happens because fleas feed on the blood of animals and humans, and when they bite, they inject a small amount of their own saliva into the skin. This saliva contains enzymes that can cause the blood to clot, and as a result, a small amount of blood may be left behind on clothing. Additionally, when fleas are squished, they also release their blood, which can also cause stains.

flea

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Flea Stains

  • White Vinegar
  • Liquid Laundry Detergent
  • Borax
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Ammonia
  • Enzyme-based stain remover
  • Chlorine bleach

Step By Step Process To Remove Flea Stains

  1. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Place the stained fabric in the solution, making sure the stain is fully saturated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Remove the fabric from the solution and gently rub liquid laundry detergent into the stain. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
  3. Wash the fabric in the washing machine using warm water and the regular cycle, adding 1/2 cup of borax to the load.
  4. Check the stain before drying the fabric. If the stain is still present, repeat steps 1-3 or proceed to the next step.
  5. Mix a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 tsp. of liquid dish soap. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  6. Rinse the fabric with warm water and wash it in the washing machine using warm water and the regular cycle, adding 1/2 cup of ammonia to the load.
  7. Check the stain before drying the fabric. If the stain is still present, repeat steps 1-6 or proceed to the next step.
  8. Apply an enzyme-based stain remover to the stain and let it sit for the amount of time recommended on the product label. Then wash the fabric in the washing machine using warm water and the regular cycle.
  9. Check the stain before drying the fabric. If the stain is still present, repeat steps 1-8 or use chlorine bleach as a last resort, but only if the fabric is white and the care label allows it. Be sure to follow the instructions and safety precautions on the product label.
Please note that some fabrics should not be washed in warm water. Always check the care label of the garment before washing. Also, be careful when using chlorine bleach as it can cause discoloration or damage to certain fabrics and should be used as a last resort.

In Brief

Fleas excrete blood when they bite which can leave reddish-brown stains on clothing. To remove the stain, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, wash the fabric with warm water and a regular cycle, adding 1/2 cup of borax to the load. Repeat the process if the stain is still present. Different solutions can be used such as hydrogen peroxide, enzyme-based stain remover, or chlorine bleach, but always check the care label of the garment before washing.

Want to share this?