How To Remove Peanut Butter Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 27, 2023

Peanut butter is a tasty treat, but it can also be a nightmare for your clothes. But don't worry, those tough peanut butter stains can be removed with the right technique. Discover how to eliminate stubborn stains and keep your clothes looking fresh and clean

COLOR

Brown

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually brown or yellow in color. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slightly nutty smell. These stains are often caused by spills or splashes of peanut butter or other similar nut butters.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Warm water helps to soften the peanut butter and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Peanut Butter Stains

Peanut butter stains clothes because it contains oils and proteins that can adhere to fabric fibers. These oils and proteins can be difficult to remove because they are not water-soluble, meaning they do not dissolve in water. As a result, they can cling to fibers and create a stain that is difficult to remove. Additionally, peanut butter is often high in sugar content, which can also contribute to staining as sugar can caramelize and stick to fabric. In short, peanut butter can stain clothes because of the oils, proteins and sugar it contains that can cling to fabric fibers, making it difficult to remove.

peanut butter

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Peanut Butter Stains

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover (such as OxiClean or Shout)

Step By Step Process To Remove Peanut Butter Stains

  1. Scrape off as much peanut butter as possible from the fabric using a butter knife or spoon.
  2. Pre-treat the stain by mixing a small amount of dishwashing liquid with warm water and applying it to the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of baking soda to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and rub it in gently.
  4. Rinse the garment thoroughly with warm water to remove the paste.
  5. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the warm water setting with laundry detergent and a stain remover (such as OxiClean or Shout).
  6. Check the stain before drying the garment. If the stain is still visible, repeat steps 2-5 before putting it in the dryer.
Note: Before using any product, it is always recommended to check the label of the garment for care instructions and test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage.

In Brief

Peanut butter stains clothes due to oils, proteins and sugar it contains that can cling to fabric fibers, making it difficult to remove. To remove the stain, scrape off as much peanut butter as possible, pre-treat the stain with dishwashing liquid and warm water, mix a paste of white vinegar and baking soda, rinse, then wash the garment with warm water, detergent, and a stain remover. Repeat if the stain is still visible. Remember to check the label of the garment for care instructions and test the solution on a small area first.

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