How To Remove Pink Water Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 27, 2023

Pink water stains on clothes can be frustrating and difficult to remove. These stains often occur when clothes are washed with hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like iron or manganese. The minerals can leave behind unsightly pink stains on clothes, making them look old and worn. But don't throw out those clothes just yet! With a few simple household items and a little bit of elbow grease, you can easily remove those pink water stains and restore your clothes to their former glory. Keep reading to learn how to remove pink water stains from clothes and keep them looking like new.

COLOR

Pink

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually pink or reddish in color. They can be dry or slightly damp to the touch and may have a slight chemical smell. These stains are often caused by exposure to chlorine or other chlorine-based compounds in water.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Pink Water Stains

Water can become pink stained due to the presence of iron and manganese in the water. These minerals can leach into the water supply from rocks and soil, and when they come into contact with oxygen, they can form rust-colored stains on surfaces and in appliances. Additionally, certain bacteria, such as Serratia marcescens, can also cause a pink discoloration in water. The bacteria can release a red pigment called prodigiosin that can dye the water a pink color.

pink water

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Pink Water Stains

  • Lemon Juice
  • White Vinegar
  • Borax
  • Dish soap
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Oxalic acid solution (found in most hardware or laundry supply stores)
  • Rust remover (such as Iron Out or Whink)

Step By Step Process To Remove Pink Water Stains

  1. Mix equal parts lemon juice and white vinegar, and apply the mixture to the stain. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Mix 1/4 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water. Soak the stained garment in the solution for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the garment from the borax solution and apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain. Rub the fabric together to work the soap into the stain.
  4. Rinse the garment with warm water and check for remaining stains.
  5. If the stain persists, mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts warm water and apply to the stain. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
  6. If the stain is still present, use an oxalic acid solution according to the package instructions. Be sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
  7. If the stain is still not removed, use a rust remover such as Iron Out or Whink according to the package instructions.
  8. After using any of these products, rinse the garment thoroughly with warm water and wash it in the washing machine at the highest water temperature recommended on the care label.
Please note: Always test the solution on a small inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the stain, to make sure it doesn't damage the fabric or discolor it. Handle Oxalic acid solution with extreme caution and make sure to read the instruction carefully before using it.

In Brief

Pink water stains on washable fabrics can be caused by minerals or certain bacteria . To remove these stains, mix equal parts lemon juice and white vinegar, mix 1/4 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water and soak the stained garment for 30 minutes, use dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, oxalic acid solution and rust remover like "Iron Out" or "Whink" if needed, rinse the garment thoroughly with warm water and wash it in the highest water temperature recommended on the care label. Be careful when using oxalic acid solution and make sure to read the instruction carefully before using it.

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