How to Remove Tomato-Based Stains

Even a tiny spot of tomato juice or sauce can ruin a white shirt or blouse. While removing tomato-based stains can be tricky, success is more likely if the stain is treated right away. Work on the stain as soon as you can and that fresh white shirt will be hanging in the closet again instead of sitting in the trash.

Things You'll Need

• Dish detergent

Instructions

1. Do not put the stained clothing in the washer and dryer. While washing it in the washer might not affect the stain too much, drying the affected item in the dryer will almost always ruin the shirt, because the heat will cause the stain to set.

2. Dab dish detergent onto the stain and gently work the soap into the stain using your fingers. Tomato stains are similar to grease stains, and dish detergent tends to work quickly to break up the oily nature of the stain.

3. Rinse the affected garment with cold water.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 if the stain persists.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a commercial stain remover in conjunction with the dish detergent for double stain-lifting action.

• Always check the label of the garment before applying any cleaning solution or chemical solvent; you could ruin the garment by using a chemical that damages that type of fabric.

References

• How to Clean Tomato Stains