How to Remove Set-In Food Coloring Stains From Clothing
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Food coloring stains don’t have to be a headache! Whether it's red, blue, green, or yellow, this easy two-step method will help you get rid of stubborn stains fast.
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You’ll need:
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Dish soap or liquid laundry detergent mixed with isopropyl alcohol
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Soft-bristled brush
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Powdered oxygen bleach (e.g., OxiClean)
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SKIP TO:
- Part 1 - Food Colouring Spots
- Part 2 - Food Colouring Stains
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Part 1: Spot Removal - How to Remove Food Coloring Spots From Clothing
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Apply a spot cleaner: Choose a cleaning solution from the options below:
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1 tsp liquid dish soap or laundry detergent mixed with 1 tsp 70% isopropyl alcohol (this is the most effective option)
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Liquid laundry detergent or dish soap (alone)
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70% isopropyl alcohol (alone)
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Tamp and agitate:
Lightly tamp or gently pat the spot cleaner onto the stained area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down the food coloring. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to agitate the stain and lift the pigments from the fabric. -
Rinse:
Rinse the area with cold water while continuing to agitate gently with the brush to help remove the stain. -
Repeat if necessary:
If some staining remains, repeat the process until most of the stain is gone. Once the majority of the stain has lifted, move on to the next step.
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Tip: If the stain spreads during spot cleaning, don’t worry! It can be fixed in the next step.
PART 2: Stain Removal - How to Remove Set-In Food Coloring Stains From Clothing
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Food coloring is made of pigments that can bond to fabric, making them tough to remove once they’ve set in. But don't worry, oxygen bleach can break down these pigments and lift the stain.
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Mix the oxygen bleach:
In a basin or bucket, combine hot water with the recommended amount of powdered oxygen bleach (follow the product instructions for proper mixing). -
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. Check the fabric periodically to assess the progress. -
Rinse or wash:
Once the stain has disappeared, rinse the garment thoroughly. Then, wash as usual in the washing machine, or run a rinse and spin cycle to remove any remaining oxygen bleach. -
Repeat if needed:
If any stain persists, repeat the soaking process until the stain is fully gone.
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​Note: Oxygen bleach is safe for most fabrics, including colored and dark fabrics, and won’t damage the color.
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Final Tips
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Follow Product Directions: Always follow the instructions on stain removal agents, including mixing concentrations and application methods, for optimal results.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.