How To Remove Sex Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 28, 2023

Removing stains from sheets after sex or making love can be a delicate task. Depending on the type of stain and the type of fabric, there are different methods to remove it. Some common household items that can be used to remove stains include white vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. It's important to test any solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the sheet first to ensure that it doesn't damage the fabric. Additionally, it's important to act quickly and treat the stain as soon as possible, as fresher stains are easier to remove than older ones. This guide will show you how to get rid of these stains quickly and effectively.

COLOR

Various (depending on bodily fluid)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that can come in various colors depending on the type of bodily fluids. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may not have any specific smell. These stains are often caused by contact with semen, vaginal secretions, or other types of bodily fluids during sexual activity.

WATER TEMP

Hot (120° to 140°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Hot water helps to break down any bodily fluids and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Sex Stains

Sex can leave stains on clothes because of the presence of bodily fluids, such as semen and vaginal secretions, which contain proteins and enzymes that can cause discoloration or staining. These fluids can also contain pigments or dyes that can contribute to the staining. Additionally, the friction generated during sexual activity can cause the fluids to be ground into the fabric, making the stains more difficult to remove.

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Sex Stains

  • Cold water
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • White vinegar
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Laundry detergent
  • Enzyme-based stain remover
  • Chlorine bleach (if the fabric is white and safe for bleaching)

Step By Step Process To Remove Sex Stains

  1. Blot any excess fluid from the fabric with a clean white cloth or paper towel.
  2. Rinse the fabric with cold water as soon as possible to dilute the stain.
  3. Create a solution of one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and one cup of cold water. Gently rub the solution into the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the fabric with cold water again to remove the solution.
  5. Make a mixture of one part white vinegar and one part water. Apply it on the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Rinse the fabric with cold water again to remove the vinegar solution.
  7. If the stain remains, mix a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Gently rub the solution into the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  8. Rinse the fabric with cold water again to remove the hydrogen peroxide solution.
  9. Finally, wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water temperature recommended on the care label, using laundry detergent and an enzyme-based stain remover. If the garment is white, and safe for bleaching, you can add chlorine bleach in the wash.
It is important to note that not all fabrics can be treated with the same products and methods, always check the care label and test a small inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the stain. Also, keep in mind that the older the stain, the harder it will be to remove.

In Brief

Sex stains are caused by bodily fluids containing proteins and enzymes that can discolor or stain fabrics. To remove the stains, first, rinse the fabric with cold water, then use a solution of dishwashing liquid and cold water, white vinegar and cold water, hydrogen peroxide, and detergent with enzyme-based stain remover. Always check the care label and test a small inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the stain.

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