How to Remove Dried-on Fruit Stains From Fabric

How to Remove Dried-On Fruit Stains From Clothes and Fabric

1. Scoop Away Excess Fruit

   Using a dull knife or a spoon, scrape away fruit stain solids like seeds or other sticky bits that remain on the fabric. Be gentle, as rubbing too vigorously can damage the clothing or force the fruit deeper into the fibers.

2. Spread a Paste Over the Stain

   • Mix 3 tablespoons of borax or baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to create a thick paste.
   • Spread an even layer of paste over the stained fabric, completely covering the area.
   • Leave the paste on the stained area to dry for at least 15 minutes. As it dries, the paste will absorb the pigment and lighten the stain.

   Tip

   Check the care label on the garment and test any detergent or cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it does not discolor the fabric.

3. Rinse the Paste

   Using warm water, rinse the dried paste off of the fabric completely, rubbing with your fingers as necessary to loosen the powder.
   

4. Apply Liquid Laundry Detergent

   Rub several drops of your favorite liquid laundry detergent directly on the stained area. Allow the detergent to sit for about five minutes before you proceed to the next step.
   

   Tip

   Do not use regular soaps on fruit-based stains; only use laundry detergent. Soaps can set the stain and make it permanent.

5. Rinse With Hot Water

   • Rinse the fabric with hot water by stretching the stained area under a faucet inside-out with the stain facing down.
   • Use the hottest water that the fabric will tolerate, forcing the stain back through the front of the fabric.
   • If the stain persists, apply liquid detergent, let it rest, then rinse again.
     

6. Apply a Stain Remover

   For especially stubborn stains, apply your favorite laundry stain remover stick, spray, or gel. Be sure to precisely follow the manufacturer's instructions.
   

7. Wash the Garment

   • Wash the fabric normally in the washing machine per the garment's care label instructions.
   • Before drying, check to be sure that the stain is completely gone, as even a faint hint of a stain will be set permanently by the heat of a dryer.
   • If you see residual traces of the stain, repeat the stain-removal process until it is gone.

How to Remove Dried-On Fruit Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

1. Make a Cleaning Solution

   Mix 1 tablespoon of mild or gentle laundry detergent with 2 cups of cold water.

2. Blot the Stain

   • Dip a clean white cloth into the solution and gently blot the stain. Continue blotting until the fabric absorbs the cleaning solution.
   • If the stain persists, dip a clean corner of your white cloth in distilled white vinegar and blot the stain with vinegar.
   • Alternate between vinegar and your cleaning solution until the stain is removed.

3. Rinse With Clean Water

   Once the stain is removed, blot the fabric with a new clean white cloth dipped in cold water to remove excess cleaners and allow it to air dry.

When to Call a Professional

If the garment is labeled dry-clean-only, take it to your dry cleaner as soon as possible. Point out and identify the stain to help your professional cleaner choose the proper treatment. If the fabric is especially delicate, like silk or vintage clothing, always contact a professional cleaner to prevent damage to the material.

Additional Tips for Handling Dried-on Fruit Stains

• As a last resort for a super-stubborn stain on colorfast clothing, try a mild bleaching agent like vinegar or lemon juice. Test the bleaching agent on a hidden area of the clothing, then check for colorfastness.
• If the fabric color and pattern were unharmed, dab the liquid onto the stained area and let it sit for several minutes. Leaving clothing in direct sunlight can increase the bleaching effects, but be careful not to go too far.
• Rinse the area thoroughly, then launder as usual.