How to Remove Mustard Stains From Clothing

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Removing mustard stains from clothing can be challenging, but with a simple two-step process, you can tackle them effectively, every time!

The two steps:

Part 1: Pre-treat the stain to remove as much mustard residue as possible.

Part 2: Remove the remaining yellow pigment stain using oxygen bleach, sunlight, or UV light.

SKIP TO:

Part 1 - Pre-Treat the Stain

Part 2 - Stain Removal Options

Video Instructions

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Part 1: Pre-Treat the Mustard Stain

The goal of pre-treatment is to remove as much mustard residue from the garment as possible before addressing the remaining pigment stain.

Remove any excess mustard: Gently scrape or blot away any leftover mustard with a soft-bristled brush or a clean towel. Be sure not to rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Apply a spot cleaner: Choose a cleaning agent:
- Liquid laundry detergent works great (Tide, Persil, Gain)
- Enzyme cleaner (Biokleen Bac Out)
Tamp and agitate: Apply gentle agitation with a soft bristle brush like a Horse Hair Brush. Agitation is best done while the fabric is submerged underwater so as not to spread the stain to other parts of the fabric.
Rinse: Rinse the stained area with cold water.
Repeat if necessary: Repeat as needed until stain removal progress stalls.

Tip: If the stain spreads during spot cleaning, don’t worry! It can be fixed in the next step.

Part 2: Stain Removal

Even after pre-treating, mustard can leave behind a stubborn yellow stain. This discoloration is caused by curcumin, the natural yellow pigment found in turmeric, a common ingredient in many prepared mustards. Curcumin binds strongly to fabric fibers, making it difficult to remove with ordinary washing. Fortunately, it can be broken down and removed using one of the methods below.

OPTION 1- Using Oxygen Bleach (OxiClean) for Mustard Stain Removal

Oxygen bleach removes the yellow discoloration by oxidizing the curcumin pigments, transforming them into colorless compounds that can be washed away.

If you're in North America, oxygen bleach is most commonly sold under the brand name OxiClean™. Similar products may be sold under different brand names in other parts of the world. Throughout this guide, the terms "oxygen bleach" and "OxiClean" are used interchangeably.

Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative to chlorine bleach and can be used on most washable fabrics and colored garments when the manufacturer's instructions are followed.

Mix the oxygen bleach: In a bucket or basin, mix hot water with the maximum recommended amount of powdered oxygen bleach (follow the instructions on the product). If using OxiClean, Fill the scoop to Line 4 per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water.
Soak the stained fabric: Submerge the stained item in the solution and let it soak for up to 8 hours or until the stain is gone.
Rinse and wash: Once the stain is gone, rinse the garment thoroughly. Then, wash it as usual in the washing machine, or run a rinse and spin cycle to remove any remaining oxygen bleach.
Repeat if needed: If the stain persists, repeat the soaking process with a fresh mixture of OxiClean until the stain is completely gone.

OPTION 2 - Using UV Light for Mustard Stain Removal

Mustard typically contains turmeric, which contains a bright yellow pigment called curcumin. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, curcumin gradually breaks down and loses its color.

For delicate fabrics, UV treatment can be an effective alternative because it avoids prolonged soaking in oxygen bleach.

Set up the UV light: Place the stained fabric on a clean, flat surface. Position the UV lamp several inches above the stain. For best results, use a 50-watt 395 nm UV light that plugs into a standard wall outlet.
Expose the stain to UV light: Turn on the UV lamp and allow the stain to be exposed for several hours. Check the stain periodically, as fading times can vary depending on the severity of the stain, the thickness of the fabric, and the power of the lamp.
Rotate if necessary: If the stain extends through multiple layers, reposition the item occasionally to ensure all stained areas receive direct UV exposure.

Notes:

This method may take anywhere from a few hours to 3–4 days of continuous UV exposure, depending on the severity of the stain. A 50-watt UV lamp will produce faster results than lower-powered models.
Do not place the UV lamp directly on the fabric. UV lamps generate heat, which may damage delicate fabrics or cause discoloration. Always maintain several inches of clearance between the lamp and the fabric.

OPTION 3 - Using Sunlight to Remove Mustard Stains

There is also a 100% natural way to remove mustard stains from clothing using nothing more than sunlight. This simple technique has been used for generations in many parts of the world where turmeric, a common ingredient in mustard and many curry dishes, is widely used in local cuisine.

Place the fabric in direct sunlight: Lay the stained fabric flat in a location that receives several hours of direct sunlight. Position the stained area so it faces the sun. If possible, avoid placing it behind glass, as windows will reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) light that reaches the fabric.
Expose the stain to Sunlight: Leave the fabric in direct sunlight for several days, checking the stain periodically. Fading times will vary depending on the intensity of the sunlight, the severity of the stain, and the type and thickness of the fabric.
Rotate if necessary: If the stain extends through multiple layers, reposition the item occasionally to ensure all stained areas receive direct sunlight.

Notes:

This method typically takes longer than the stain removal methods described above. In most cases, you'll notice that about 90% of the stain fades within the first one to two days. The remaining discoloration may take several more days, or up to a week of sunlight exposure, to disappear completely.

Video Instructions (Mustard Stains)

Watch our YouTube video for a step-by-step guide on removing mustard or turmeric stains from clothing.

Final Tips

Follow Product Directions: Always follow the instructions on stain removal agents, including mixing concentrations and application methods, for optimal results.
Follow the Care Label: Always check the garment's laundry care label before attempting stain removal. If you're unsure what a symbol means, see our guide: The Laundry Care Symbols Legend: What Each Symbol Means.
Handle Delicates with Care: Avoid using these methods on delicate materials such as wool, silk, or other natural fibers. For these fabrics, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner to avoid damage.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Always test cleaning products on a small, hidden area of the fabric, or on a sample piece of fabric, to ensure compatibility with the material before applying them to the stain.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not use oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) outdoors or in direct sunlight, as the sun can accelerate the bleaching effect and may cause fabric damage.
Use at Your Own Risk: These methods are offered for informational purposes, and we recommend using them at your own risk. Always exercise caution and, if unsure, consult a professional.