How To Remove Lily Pollen Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 26, 2023

Lily pollen stains can be a challenge to remove, especially if left untreated for too long. The bright yellow color and fine powdery texture of lily pollen can easily be transferred to fabrics, leaving behind stubborn stains. But don't worry, with the right approach and a few simple household items, you can easily remove these stains and restore your fabrics to their original condition. These tips will help you get rid of the stains effectively. Keep reading to learn more about how to remove lily pollen stains from washable fabrics.

COLOR

Yellow

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually yellow in color. They can be dry or slightly damp to the touch and may not have any specific smell. These stains are often caused by contact with lily pollen.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the pollen from causing further damage to the fabric.

The Science Behind Lily Pollen Stains

Lily pollen stains clothes because it contains pigments called anthocyanins, which are responsible for the bright colors of flowers. These pigments are water-soluble, which means they dissolve easily in water and can be transferred to clothes when they come into contact with them. Additionally, lily pollen is very fine and can stick easily to fabrics, making it difficult to remove once it has been stained.

lily pollen

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Lily Pollen Stains

  • Water
  • Detergent
  • Laundry stain remover (e.g. OxiClean, Shout, or Zout)
  • White vinegar
  • Hydrogen peroxide

Step By Step Process To Remove Lily Pollen Stains

  1. Blot the stain with a clean, white cloth to remove as much of the pollen as possible.
  2. Mix a solution of 1 part detergent to 4 parts water and apply it to the stain.
  3. Use a laundry stain remover (e.g. OxiClean, Shout, or Zout) as directed on the label and apply it to the stain.
  4. Rinse the area with cool water to remove the detergent and stain remover.
  5. If the stain remains, mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes then rinse with cool water.
  6. If the stain is still present, mix a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
  7. Wash the garment on the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric, using detergent and laundry stain remover.
Please note that it is important to treat the stain as soon as possible and check the garment's care label before using any of these methods. Also, it is always good to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stain.

In Brief

Lily pollen stains clothes due to its pigments called anthocyanins that dissolve easily in water. To remove the stain, use a solution of water and detergent or specialized stain remover, and then wash the garment on the hottest water setting safe for the fabric using detergent and laundry stain remover. If the stain persists, you can use white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide to remove it. Remember to always check the garment's care label before using any of these methods.

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