How To Remove Turmeric Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 29, 2023

Turmeric stains can be a tricky problem, especially when it comes to keeping your washable fabrics looking vibrant and clean. But don't let those yellowish-orange marks ruin your favorite clothes or linens! With our easy-to-follow guide, you'll learn how to remove turmeric stains from washable fabrics quickly and effectively. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn stain on your shirt or a spot on your sheets, our step-by-step instructions will show you how to get rid of the problem for good. Keep reading to learn more.

COLOR

Yellow

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually yellow or orange in color. They can be dry or slightly damp to the touch and may have a slightly earthy or spicy smell. These stains are often caused by contact with turmeric.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

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

The Science Behind Turmeric Stains

Turmeric stains clothes because it is a natural dye made of pigments called curcuminoids, which are water-insoluble and can bind to the fibers in fabrics. When turmeric comes into contact with fabric, the curcuminoids can penetrate the fibers and adhere to them, making the stain difficult to remove. Additionally, turmeric's natural pH level is on the acidic side, which can cause the dye to set more quickly and make the stain more permanent. To avoid turmeric stains on clothes, it is best to handle turmeric with care and avoid getting it on clothing, or to wear protective clothing when working with it.

turmeric

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Turmeric Stains

  • Dish soap
  • Lemon juice
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Laundry detergent
  • Chlorine bleach (for white fabrics only)
  • Enzyme-based stain remover

Step By Step Process To Remove Turmeric Stains

  1. Blot the stain to remove as much excess turmeric as possible.
  2. Mix a solution of equal parts dish soap and lemon juice. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  4. Rinse the area with water and then apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
  5. Wash the garment in the washing machine using warm water and laundry detergent. Use chlorine bleach for white fabrics only.
  6. If the stain is still present, apply an enzyme-based stain remover and wash again in the warm water.
  7. Check the stain before drying the garment in the dryer, heat can set the stain permanently
Note: Please check the care label on the garment before proceeding with these steps, some fabrics may have special care instructions. Also, always test the solution on a small inconspicuous area of the garment before applying to the stain.

In Brief

Turmeric stains clothes due to the pigments called curcuminoids, which bind to fabric fibers. To remove turmeric stains, first blot away excess, then apply a mix of dish soap and lemon juice, followed by a baking soda paste, then hydrogen peroxide, and finally washing the item using warm water and detergent, possibly using an enzyme based stain remover. Always check the care label and test the solution on a small inconspicuous area before applying to the stain.

Want to share this?