How To Remove Insect Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 26, 2023

Insect stains can be a real pain to remove from clothes, but don't let them ruin your favorite garments. With this easy solution, you can effectively eliminate insect stains and restore your clothes to their former beauty. Keep reading to learn the secret to removing insect stains from clothes and keep them looking like new.

COLOR

Various (depending on type)

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 insect droppings and are commonly found on clothes or fabrics exposed to insects.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Insect Stains

Insects like ladybugs or stink bugs can stain clothes because they contain pigments called carotenoids in their bodies. When they are crushed or squished against a fabric, these pigments can transfer onto the material, leaving a stain. The pigments are not soluble in water, so they can be difficult to remove once they have been transferred to the fabric. Additionally, the longer the stain is left untreated, the more difficult it is to remove. This happens because the pigments can bond with the fibers of the fabric, making it difficult to remove.

insect

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Insect Stains

  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Lemon juice
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Stain remover spray or laundry detergent

Step By Step Process To Remove Insect Stains

  1. Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  3. If the stain is still present, apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the garment with cool water.
  5. If the stain is still present, mix a solution of equal parts water and lemon juice. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. If stain is still present, apply hydrogen peroxide to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the warmest water setting that is safe for the fabric with laundry detergent or stain remover spray.
Note : Be sure to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on the stain, to make sure that it does not cause any damage or discoloration to the fabric. Always follow the care instructions on the garment's label.

In Brief

Insect stains on clothes are caused by pigments called carotenoids in the insect's body that transfer onto the fabric when crushed. These pigments are not water-soluble and can bond with fibers making it difficult to remove. To remove the stain, one can use a combination of white vinegar, baking soda, dish soap, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and laundry detergent. Always test the solution on an inconspicuous area and follow the care instructions on the garment's label.

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