How To Remove Sports Drink Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 29, 2023

Are you tired of dealing with stubborn sports drink stains on your clothes? Look no further! In this guide, we'll walk you through the simple steps on how to effectively remove those unsightly stains and have your clothes looking as good as new. Say goodbye to ruined workout gear and hello to spotless attire. Keep reading to learn the tricks of the trade!

COLOR

Various (depending on color)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that can come in various colors depending on the type of sports drink. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slightly sweet or tangy smell. These stains are often caused by spills or splashes of sports drinks or other similar types of beverages.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Sports Drink Stains

Sports drinks can stain clothes because they contain dyes and pigments that can adhere to fabrics, as well as sugars and acids that can break down the fibers in the fabric. When the drink comes into contact with the fabric, the dyes and pigments can transfer onto the fabric, while the sugars and acids can weaken the fibers, making them more susceptible to staining. Additionally, if the sports drink is not cleaned up immediately, the liquid can dry and harden onto the fabric, making the stain even more difficult to remove.

sports drink

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Sports Drink Stains

  • Water
  • Detergent
  • White vinegar or lemon juice
  • Borax or baking soda
  • Stain remover spray or paste
  • Hydrogen peroxide

Step By Step Process To Remove Sports Drink Stains

  1. Blot up as much of the stain as possible with a clean, white cloth or paper towel.
  2. Rinse the stain under cool running water.
  3. Treat the stain with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar or lemon juice and water, or with a small amount of detergent. Gently rub the mixture into the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
  4. If the stain persists, create a paste by mixing borax or baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Rinse the area with cool water again.
  6. If stain is still visible, apply a commercial stain remover or laundry pre-treatment spray and let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes.
  7. Wash the garment in the washing machine with the recommended amount of detergent. Use warm water if the garment label allows, otherwise use cold water.
  8. Check the garment before drying. If the stain is still visible, repeat steps 2-7.
  9. If the stain still persist, mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water and apply it on the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes and then wash the garment as usual.
Note: Always check the care label on the garment before attempting to remove the stain, and test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the stain.

In Brief

Sports drink stains are caused by dyes, pigments, sugars, and acids in the drink that can adhere to fabrics and break down fibers. To remove the stains, you will need water, detergent, white vinegar or lemon juice, borax or baking soda, stain remover spray or paste, and hydrogen peroxide. Follow the steps outlined in the previous response, while checking the care label on the garment, and test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the stain.

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