The Best Tips to Get Food Stains Out of Your Clothes

The Best Tips to Get Food Stains Out of Your Clothes

Clean Right Laundromat – Gainesville, GA

Food stains happen to everyone — whether it’s ketchup from a quick lunch, coffee from a morning rush, or wine from a night out. The good news? Most food stains can be removed if you act fast and treat them properly. Here are some of the best pro-approved tips from Clean Right Laundromat to help you rescue your clothes.

1️⃣ Act Quickly

The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Blot (don’t rub!) the affected area with a clean paper towel or cloth to soak up excess residue. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

2️⃣ Know the Stain Type

Different stains need different treatments:

• Protein-based (meat, eggs, dairy): Rinse with cold water before washing. Avoid hot water—it can set the stain.

• Grease and oil (pizza, salad dressing, butter): Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to absorb oil, then pretreat with liquid dish soap.

• Tannins (coffee, tea, wine): Rinse with cold water, then pretreat with an enzyme-based stain remover.

• Tomato or sauces: Blot with cold water, pretreat with liquid detergent, and avoid heat until the stain is gone.

3️⃣ Pretreat Before Washing

Apply a small amount of liquid detergent or stain remover directly onto the spot. Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.

4️⃣ Wash with the Right Water Temperature

Check your fabric care label first:

• Use cold water for delicate or protein stains.

• Use warm water for oily or greasy stains.

• Avoid hot water until you’re sure the stain is gone—heat can make it permanent.

5️⃣ Check Before Drying

After washing, inspect the area before putting the item in the dryer. If the stain is still visible, repeat treatment. Drying can “bake in” a stain permanently.

6️⃣ Let the Pros Handle It

Some stains are just too stubborn. That’s where Clean Right Laundromat’s wash-dry-fold and pickup & delivery services come in handy. Our team uses professional-grade detergents, Sanowash Ozone-sanitized water, and careful handling to make sure your clothes come out spotless and fresh.

💡 Bonus Tip:

Always test any cleaning product on a hidden area of the fabric first, especially for delicate materials like silk or wool.