How To Remove Silly Putty Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 28, 2023

Removing Silly Putty stains from clothes can be a tricky task, but it is possible. Silly Putty is a fun and versatile toy, but it can also create a mess when it ends up on your clothes. But don't worry, there are several methods to remove Silly Putty stains from clothes, whether it's a fresh or dried stain. Depending on the type of fabric and the severity of the stain, you can use household items such as rubbing alcohol, vinegar, or nail polish remover. This guide will show you how to get rid of Silly Putty stains from clothes quickly and effectively. So, if you want to know how to remove Silly Putty stains from clothes, read on and find out!

COLOR

Various (depending on color)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually clear or light colored in color. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slightly rubbery smell. These stains are often caused by contact with Silly Putty.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to harden the silly putty and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Silly Putty Stains

Silly Putty is a silicone polymer, which is a type of plastic that is made up of repeating units of silicon and oxygen. When Silly Putty comes into contact with fabric, the fibers in the fabric can become entangled with the polymer molecules, causing the Silly Putty to adhere to the fabric. Once the Silly Putty is on the fabric, the oils and pigments in the Silly Putty can transfer onto the fabric, causing a stain. The stain is difficult to remove because the silicone polymer is resistant to many common cleaning agents. It is important to remove the Silly Putty as soon as possible and use a solvent such as rubbing alcohol or a silicone remover for best results.

silly putty

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Silly Putty Stains

  • Rubbing alcohol or a silicone remover
  • Laundry detergent
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • A stiff brush or old toothbrush

Step By Step Process To Remove Silly Putty Stains

  1. Remove as much Silly Putty as possible from the fabric by gently scraping it with a stiff brush or old toothbrush. Be careful not to spread the stain.
  2. Apply rubbing alcohol or a silicone remover to the stain and gently rub it in with a brush or toothbrush. Be sure to test the solvent in an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it won't cause damage to the fabric.
  3. Rinse the area with cold water, being careful to remove all of the solvent.
  4. Wash the garment in the washer with warm water and laundry detergent.
  5. Check the stain before drying, if the stain is still visible, mix a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water, and using a cloth or sponge, apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
  6. Wash the garment again with warm water and laundry detergent and add ½ cup of baking soda to the load.
  7. Dry the garment as directed on the care label.
It's important to note that some stains may require more than one treatment and may not be completely removable, especially if they have set in. It's also important to use the right water temperature, in this case, warm water, as using hot water can set in the stain.

In Brief

Silly Putty is a silicone polymer which can cause a stain when it comes into contact with fabric by adhering to the fibers and transferring oils and pigments. To remove the stain, first remove as much Silly Putty as possible, then use rubbing alcohol or silicone remover, rinse and wash the garment in warm water with laundry detergent. If the stain remains, use a solution of white vinegar and water and rewash adding baking soda. Dry as directed on care label.

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