About Mustard and Ketchup Stains

You load up your hot dog with plenty of mustard and ketchup, and then you have yellow and red dripping onto your clothes. While these stains can be difficult to remove, all is not lost. Here are some ideas on how to remove them before they set in and stay for good.

Significance

Ketchup and mustard are quite popular condiments, and are commonly used on burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. Since they are thinner than a sauce, they can also drip off your food.

Types

The popular yellow kind of mustard has the spice turmeric, which is difficult to remove since it itself is used as a dye. Ketchup is made from tomatoes and usually has some herbs and spices.

Effects

Both condiments are very common clothing stains since they are both popular condiments. The stains can be difficult to remove if you do not act quickly.

Prevention/Solution

For fresh mustard stains, blot them rather than rub them since that will cause the stain to spread deeper into the fabric. Use a treatment for stains before washing, and wash immediately. Do not dry garment. For older stains, take to a dry cleaning professional. For ketchup stains, turn clothing inside out and run cold water through stain, and then apply white vinegar to the stain. Repeat directions for mustard stains.

Warning

Do not use ammonia on mustard stains since it will further set the stain. Always look at the clothing label to check the material. Some cleaners and stain removers can destroy delicate fabrics like silk. When in doubt, bring the clothing to trusted, experienced dry cleaners and be sure to point out any additional stains to them.