Whether in a breakfast parfait, frozen dessert, or brunch cocktail, berries are delicious and healthy, and in peak season during the summer. However, they can leave behind some of the toughest stains to remove. The tannins and natural dyes in strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are powerful staining agents.
If you find berry stains on your clothes, don’t fret; you can remove them and keep your summer wardrobe fresh with our cleaning advice. Here’s how to get berry stains out of clothes and fabric, including pre-treatment tips to ensure the best results.
How to Get Berry Stains Out of Clothing
The key to successfully removing berry stains is to act fast. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. Start by lifting the solids with a dull knife or plastic card. Then, use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot (not rub) the stain to absorb excess juice without pushing it into the fabric fibers.
Then, use one or more of the following compatible methods to remove the stain.
Flush with Cold Water
Hold the stained fabric under cold running water after blotting out any excess juice. Let the water flow through the back side of the fabric to push colors out rather than into it. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain. If the stain is dry, apply a clear liquid laundry detergent or stain remover to pre-treat it. Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft bristle brush, and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
Pair Sunlight and Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. Combined with sunlight, it can be effective in removing berry stains. Pre-treat the stain by squeezing fresh lemon juice directly onto the stain, saturating the area thoroughly. After five minutes, lay the garment flat in direct sunlight for a few hours. The combination of UV rays and lemon juice from the sun will break down the stain. After sun exposure, rinse the fabric with cold water and wash as usual.
This method is best for removing berry stains from white clothing, as it can bleach colored clothes and linens.
Apply Vinegar and Baking Soda
The acidity of vinegar combined with the abrasive properties of baking soda makes for an excellent stain remover. Combine white vinegar and baking soda to form a paste. Apply it on the berry stain, leaving it to sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse the fabric with cold water. Then, wash as usual. Repeat the process as necessary.
Flush with Boiling Water
Stretch the stained fabric over a bowl or sink. If necessary, secure it with rubber bands to hold it in place. Then, carefully pour boiling water from about a foot above the fabric. The force of the water will push the stain out of the fibers. Wash the fabric as usual after this treatment. Always flush the stain from the opposite side to prevent it from penetrating deeper into the fibers.
This method works well for berry stains on cotton and linen fabrics but should not be used on delicate silk or wool.
Soak in Milk
Milk is a gentle and effective way to remove berry stains from delicate fabrics like silk and wool. Submerge the stained area in a bowl of milk and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. Before washing, rinse the fabric with cold water.
Use a Commercial Stain Remover
Numerous commercial stain removers are specifically designed to tackle tough stains like berry juice. Follow the instructions on the product label. In general, you need to apply the solution directly to the stain and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time, around 5-10 minutes. Wash the fabric following the steps on the care label. The most effective stain removers for berry stains are those with an enzyme-based formula, pectinase, which effectively breaks the plant structure into tiny particles.
Consider Oxygenated Bleach
For tough stains, consider using oxygenated bleach (3% hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach). Hydrogen peroxide bleaches are generally safe for most colors. While chlorine bleach has stronger stain-removing power, it is only recommended for use on whites. However, both solutions can cause color loss, so always test an inconspicuous area of the fabric before use. To prevent damage, don’t let the bleach sit for long before flushing it with water.
Additional Tips for Getting Berry Stains Out of Fabric
- Test any berry stain removal method on a small, inconspicuous area of the garment first to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the material.
- In some cases, a single treatment may not completely remove a stain. Repeat the process or try a different method if needed.
- When handling dry-clean-only garments, remove any solids and blot the area with a paper towel before hurrying to your dry cleaner. If you use a home dry cleaning kit, pre-treat the stain with the provided remover.
- Dryer heat can set any remaining stain traces, so make sure the stain is completely gone before tossing the garment in the dryer.
By following these methods and tips, you can effectively remove berry stains from your clothes and fabrics, keeping them fresh and stain-free all summer. If all else fails or you get berry stains on vintage or silk upholstery, seek professional help.
