How to Get Coffee Stains Out of Clothes

Coffee is a beloved morning ritual for many, but it can leave behind some pesky stains on your clothes. Luckily, there are simple kitchen remedies to tackle these stains effectively. Here’s how you can remove coffee stains from different types of fabrics:

Natural Fabrics

Linen and Cotton:

• Fresh Stains: Immediately rinse the stain under cold water. Apply soap directly to the stain and gently rub. Rinse and repeat if necessary. For white or light-colored fabrics, boiling water can help, but avoid this for colored fabrics to prevent fading.
• Stale Stains: Soak the fabric in a solution of water and kitchen salt for several hours. Wash as usual, preferably with a double rinse cycle.

Delicate Fabrics

Silk and Wool:

• Treatment: Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in a mixture of ammonia and a mild soap solution (3-5 teaspoons of ammonia per liter of water). Rinse thoroughly. For wool, pre-treat with a cloth dampened in gasoline, followed by the ammonia-soap solution.

Stubborn Stains

General Method:

• Salt Solution: Brush the stain with warm water, then wash in soapy water with a small amount of salt. Rinse three times: twice with warm water and once with cold.
• Glycerin: Apply glycerin directly to the stain, leave for 20 minutes, then wash. For old stains, mix glycerin with water and a few drops of ammonia.

White Fabrics

• Glycerin and Citric Acid: Mix glycerin with citric acid, apply to the stain, and then wash as usual. This works well for sateen and knitwear.

Synthetic Fabrics

• Alcohol: Soak the fabric in water mixed with alcohol (one teaspoon per liter of water). Rinse thoroughly.

Denim (Jeans)

• Ammonia or Citric Acid: Mix 10 drops of ammonia with 500 ml of water, apply to the stain, and wash. Alternatively, mix citric and oxalic acids, apply to the stain, leave for an hour, then rinse.

Upholstered Furniture and Carpets

• Hydrogen Peroxide: Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to bleach the stain. Test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid fabric damage. For best results, consider professional dry cleaning.

Leather

• Gasoline or Turpentine: Gently rub the stain with gasoline or turpentine. Be careful not to over-dry the fabric to avoid cracking. Special leather cleaning products are also recommended.

Shedding Fabrics

• Borax Solution: Use a 10% borax solution to clean shedding fabrics. If the stain persists, mix salt with lemon juice, apply to the fabric, and let it sit for a while before rinsing.

Coffee and Milk Stains

Latte or Cappuccino:

• Two-Step Process: First, treat the stain with gasoline to remove the grease. Follow with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Apply with a brush or rag, then wash and rinse thoroughly.

Removing coffee stains can seem daunting, but with these practical tips, you can keep your fabrics looking fresh and clean. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the cleaning method does not damage the fabric. If the stains persist or you’re unsure about treating delicate fabrics, it might be best to consult a professional cleaner.

For professional cleaning services, trust CR Maids House Cleaning Services in Castle Rock, CO. We are a woman-owned local business dedicated to providing top-quality interior and exterior cleaning services in the Greater Denver area. Whether you need routine house cleaning or a deep-clean for special occasions, CR Maids is here to help make your home spotless and welcoming.

By following these guidelines and considering professional assistance when needed, you can effectively manage and eliminate coffee stains from your clothes. Remember, prompt action is key to preventing stains from setting and becoming more difficult to remove. With a little effort and the right approach, you can maintain the pristine condition of your garments and household items.
Additionally, maintaining a regular cleaning schedule can prevent stains from becoming permanent fixtures on your fabrics. Investing in high-quality cleaning products and tools can make the process easier and more effective. Don’t hesitate to reach out to cleaning professionals for those tough, stubborn stains or for routine maintenance to keep your home looking its best.