How To Remove Tomato Sauce Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 29, 2023

Tomato sauce stains can be a real pain, especially when it comes to keeping your clothes looking fresh and clean. But don't let those unsightly marks ruin your favorite outfits! With our easy-to-follow guide, you'll learn how to remove tomato sauce stains from your clothes quickly and effectively. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn stain on your shirt or a spot on your pants, our step-by-step instructions will show you how to get rid of the problem for good. Keep reading to learn more.

COLOR

Red

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually red or orange in color. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slightly tangy or savory smell. These stains are often caused by spills or splashes of tomato sauce or other similar types of condiments.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Tomato Sauce Stains

Tomato sauce stains clothes because it contains pigments, such as lycopene, that can bind to the fibers of the fabric. These pigments are water-insoluble, meaning they do not dissolve in water, which makes it difficult to remove the stain. Additionally, the acidity in tomato sauce can cause the pigments to set into the fabric, making the stain even harder to remove. It is important to treat tomato sauce stains as soon as possible, using a stain remover or a mixture of laundry detergent and water, before washing the garment in order to increase the chances of removing the stain.

tomato sauce

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Tomato Sauce Stains

  • Stain remover or laundry detergent
  • Warm water
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide

Step By Step Process To Remove Tomato Sauce Stains

  1. Treat the stain as soon as possible. If the stain is fresh, gently blot away any excess sauce with a clean cloth or paper towel.
  2. Apply a small amount of stain remover or a mixture of laundry detergent and warm water directly onto the stain. Gently rub the solution into the fabric using a clean cloth or an old toothbrush.
  3. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the garment with warm water and check if the stain has been removed. If the stain is still visible, repeat steps 2-3.
  5. Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part warm water. Apply the solution onto the stain, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Mix 1 part baking soda and 3 parts water to make a paste. Apply the paste onto the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Rinse the garment with warm water again. If the stain persists, use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  8. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water temperature allowed for the fabric.
Note: Please check the care label of the garment before using any of the products or method mentioned above. Some fabrics may be harmed by specific products or methods. Also, it is important to conduct a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using any products or methods on the entire garment to ensure that the fabric will not be damaged.

In Brief

Tomato sauce stains clothes due to water-insoluble pigments, like lycopene, that bind to fabric fibers. The acidity of the sauce can make stains harder to remove. Act quickly and use a stain remover or laundry detergent, then rinse with warm water. Apply a vinegar solution or baking soda paste to persistent stains, and use hydrogen peroxide as a last resort. Check the care label and do a patch test before treating. Wash the garment on the hottest water temperature allowed for the fabric.

Want to share this?