How To Remove Kimchi Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 26, 2023

Kimchi stains can be a tricky to remove, especially if left untreated for too long. But don't worry, with the right approach and a few simple household items, you can easily remove these stains and restore your clothes to their original condition. Whether it's a fresh or dried kimchi stain, these tips will help you get rid of the stains effectively. Keep reading to learn more about how to remove kimchi stains from clothes and enjoy your favorite korean dishes without worrying about ruining your clothes.

COLOR

Various (depending on ingredients)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually red or orange in color. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a spicy or fermented smell.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Warm water helps to break down the kimchi and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Kimchi Stains

Kimchi stains on clothes happen when the red chili pepper flakes, a key ingredient in kimchi, come into contact with the fibers of the fabric. The pigments in the pepper flakes can stick to the fibers and cause a stain. Additionally, the fermented nature of kimchi can also cause staining on clothes as it contains acetic acid and lactic acid which can break down the fibers in the fabric and cause discoloration. The salt content in kimchi can also attract moisture and bacteria making the stain even harder to remove.

kimchi

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Kimchi Stains

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

Step By Step Process To Remove Kimchi Stains

  1. Blot up as much of the kimchi as possible with a clean cloth or paper towel.
  2. Apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  5. If the stain is still present, apply a small amount of lemon juice to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Rinse the garment with cool water.
  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 : Kimchi stains can be particularly difficult to remove and may require several attempts to completely remove the stain. Always 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

Kimchi stains on clothes happen due to the red chili pepper flakes, an ingredient in kimchi and the fermented nature of kimchi which contains acetic acid and lactic acid. To remove the stain, use a combination of dish soap, white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and laundry detergent. Kimchi stains can be particularly difficult to remove and may require several attempts. Always 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.

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