How To Remove Nicotine Stain From Washable Fabrics
January 27, 2023
Are you tired of trying to hide those unsightly nicotine stains on your clothes? Whether it's from smoking or just being in a smoky environment, these stains can be difficult to remove. But don't give up just yet, with our simple and effective method, you'll be able to remove nicotine stains from your clothes and restore them to their former glory. Using common household items, you can easily remove those stubborn stains and have your clothes looking like new again. So, don't let those nicotine stains ruin your clothes anymore, read on to learn the step-by-step process for removing them.
COLOR
Yellow
APPEARANCE
These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually yellow or brown in color. They can be dry or slightly damp to the touch and may have a slightly tobacco or chemical smell. These stains are often caused by contact with cigarette smoke or other tobacco products.
WATER TEMP
Hot (120° to 140°F)
RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP
Hot water helps to break down the nicotine and make it easier to remove.
The Science Behind Nicotine Stains
Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the nightshade family of plants, including tobacco. When nicotine is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually makes its way to the skin, where it can be excreted through sweat and oils. When it comes into contact with clothing, it can cause a yellow or brown discoloration. This is because nicotine is a highly pigmented compound and when it is mixed with the oils and sweat on your skin, it can create a stain that is difficult to remove. Additionally, Nicotine is a chemical that is also reactive with oxygen and can cause yellowish-brown discoloration on clothes over time, even if no physical contact.
What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Nicotine Stains
- Dish soap or laundry detergent
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Cornstarch or talcum powder
- Lemon juice or lemon essential oil
- Specialty stain remover (such as OxiClean or Zout)
Step By Step Process To Remove Nicotine Stains
- Mix a small amount of dish soap or laundry detergent with water to create a sudsy solution.
- Apply the solution directly to the stain and work it in with a brush or an old toothbrush.
- Let the solution sit on the stain for about 15 minutes.
- Rinse the area with warm water and repeat steps 1-3 if necessary.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the area with warm water and repeat steps 5-6 if necessary.
- Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 1 part water, apply it to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Blot the area with a clean cloth and repeat steps 7-8 if necessary.
- If the stain remains, mix equal parts cornstarch or talcum powder with lemon juice or lemon essential oil to make a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Brush off the paste and rinse the area with warm water.
- Wash the garment in the washer on the warmest water setting that is safe for the fabric with laundry detergent, and add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
In Brief
Nicotine is a pigmented alkaloid found in tobacco that can cause yellow or brown stains on clothes. To remove nicotine stains, you can use a combination of dish soap or laundry detergent, white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, cornstarch or talcum powder, lemon juice, and specialty stain remover. It's important to check the care label on the garment before attempting to remove the stain, and test any product on a small, inconspicuous area first before using it on the entire garment.
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