Get Rid Of Bbq Sauce Stains From Your Clothes

Barbecue sauce stains are notoriously difficult to remove from clothing due to their greasy nature and colourful pigments. However, there are several methods you can use to remove these stains and save your favourite garments.

Remove excess sauce with a spoon

Removing excess barbecue sauce from your clothing is the first step in stain removal. Using a spoon, gently scoop up and remove any barbecue sauce from the fabric. Be careful not to press too hard, as this may cause the stain to penetrate deeper into the clothing fibres. This step is important to prevent the stain from spreading to other parts of the garment.

While you may not be able to get all of the sauce that has already soaked into the fabric, removing as much of the excess as possible will help to minimise the spread of the stain. This will give you a better chance of completely removing the barbecue sauce stain.

It is important to act quickly when treating a barbecue sauce stain, as the sauce contains oils that can settle into the fabric. The sooner you treat the stain, the better your chances of removing it completely.

Rinse with cold water

Rinsing with cold water is the second step to take when removing BBQ sauce stains from clothing. The first step is to remove any excess sauce from the fabric with a spoon, being careful not to press too hard and drive the stain deeper into the clothing fibres.

After removing the excess sauce, you should run cold water through the back of the stain as quickly as possible. This will force the stain back out through the fabric. It is important to avoid hot water, which can set the stain and make it more difficult, if not impossible, to remove. Keep running water through the stained fabric for several minutes, or longer if you feel it is helping to fade or remove the stain.

After rinsing with cold water, the next step is to rub a liquid laundry detergent into the stained portion of the fabric. You can also use liquid dish soap. Work it in gently with your fingers, ensuring both sides of the fabric are soaked through.

Use a stain remover

Once you've scooped away any excess barbecue sauce and blasted the stain with cold water, it's time to bring out the big guns: a stain remover.

For this step, you'll want to apply a stain remover in spray or liquid form to both sides of the fabric. This ensures that the remover fully penetrates the stained area. Let the remover sit for at least 5 to 15 minutes before washing the fabric. If you're in a hurry, some sources suggest a minimum of 10 minutes.

It's worth noting that you should wash the fabric within 20 minutes of applying the stain remover for optimal results. If the garment is white, you can also apply a mild bleaching product, like white vinegar, to help lift the stain. Just be sure to rinse well afterward, as even mild bleaching products can affect the colour of your clothing. If you're concerned about discolouration, it's best to skip this step.

If the stain persists, don't worry! Simply repeat the previous steps, adding another round of stain remover before throwing the garment into the washing machine with detergent.

Soak in warm water if unsuccessful

If the stain persists, it's time to soak the garment in warm water. This is your last chance to save the garment before the stain becomes permanent, so it's important to follow these steps carefully.

Firstly, rub some liquid laundry detergent into the stain. You can also use dish soap, which is particularly effective at removing grease and oils. Work the detergent or soap into the fabric with your fingers, ensuring that both sides of the fabric are thoroughly soaked through. Allow the detergent or soap to sit for up to 10 minutes.

Next, soak the garment in warm water for about 30 minutes. Set a timer to ensure you don't forget about it! After 30 minutes, remove the garment from the warm water and rinse it thoroughly.

Now, wash the garment again using your usual method and detergent. Check the care label on the garment to ensure you're following the correct procedure. Once the wash cycle is complete, do not put the garment in the dryer. Instead, air-dry it and inspect the stain. If the stain is gone, you can dry the garment as usual. If the stain remains, repeat the above process.

Leave it to the professionals

If you've tried all the home remedies and the stain is still there, it's time to call in the experts. Professional dry cleaners have a range of tools and techniques at their disposal that can effectively remove even the most stubborn of BBQ sauce stains.

Finding a dry cleaner

A quick online search will bring up a list of dry cleaning services in your area. Most dry cleaners will offer a range of services, from standard laundry to specialist stain removal and clothing protection treatments. Many also offer free collection and delivery, so you don't even have to leave your home.

Specialist dry cleaning services

Dry cleaning services often go beyond simply cleaning your clothes. Many offer specialist treatments for delicate items, bridal wear, and soft furnishings. They can also provide alterations and repairs, and some even offer additional handy services such as photo printing and key cutting.

Eco-friendly cleaning

Some dry cleaners use eco-friendly and biodegradable solvents that are safe for all fabrics. These natural cleaning methods effectively remove dirt and stains, leaving your clothes with a pleasant odour and smooth feel.

Stain removal

Professional dry cleaners have a range of solvents and techniques to remove stains that home remedies might not be able to tackle. They can also advise on the best way to prevent stains from setting in the first place and offer treatments to protect your clothes from future stains.

Time-saving solution

Using a professional dry cleaning service can save you time and effort. You can drop off your clothes or take advantage of collection and delivery services, and your clothes will be returned to you clean and ready to wear. No more scrubbing stains or waiting for wash cycles to finish.

So, if you're struggling to remove a BBQ sauce stain, don't despair. Leave it to the professionals, and your clothes will be good as new in no time.

Frequently asked questions