How to Remove Chocolate Stains

Act quickly to mop up chocolate stains.

Fast action and the right product can turn a chocolate spill nothing more than a bittersweet memory. Tossing your untreated chocolate stained clothing in the hamper to tackle with the next load of wash may result in a permanent reminder. A chocolate stain is challenging to remove because it’s a combination of oily or waxy elements and a dye or pigment. Start your stain removal efforts with a treatment designed to battle oily stains.

Things You'll Need

• White towel
• Detergent
• Borax

Instructions

1. Treat the stain as soon as possible. Scrape off any bits of chocolate with a spoon and blot any liquids. Do not rub the stain.

2. Lay the stained piece of clothing on a clean white absorbent towel. Mix detergent into warm water and scrub into chocolate stain. Blot with a clean cloth and launder as usual

3. Mix a paste of Borax and warm water. Place the chocolate stain over a clean white absorbent towel. Spread the Borax mixture over the chocolate stain, but do not rub into the garment. Let the Borax work for 5 to 10 minutes, rinse and launder as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• If the stain remains after removing the clothing from washer, repeat the steps and wash again. Do not put the clothing in the dryer because the heat will permanently set the stain.

References

• Ohio State University: Quick 'N Easy Stain Removal
• University of Illinois: Stain Removal, Chocolate