How to Remove Coffee Stains From Clothing
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​Coffee stains can be tough to remove, but with a straightforward two-step method, you can get rid of them effectively.
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You’ll need:
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Liquid laundry detergent, dish soap, or an all-purpose spot remover
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Soft-bristled brush
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Powdered oxygen bleach (e.g., OxiClean) for stain removal
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SKIP TO:
- Part 1 - Remove Coffee Spots
- Part 2 - Remove Coffee Stains
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Part 1: Spot Removal - How to Remove Red Wine Spots From Clothing
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Rinse with cold water: Over the sink, run cold water over the stained area to remove as much coffee as possible.
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Apply a spot cleaner: Choose a cleaning agent: Liquid laundry detergent, dish soap, or an all-purpose spot remover.
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Tamp and agitate: Lightly tamp or pat the cleaner into the stained area. Gently agitate with a soft-bristled brush to loosen the coffee stain from the fabric.
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Rinse: Rinse the affected area with cold water.
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Repeat if necessary: If the coffee stain remains, repeat steps 2–4 until most of the stain is removed before moving to the stain removal step.
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PART 2: Stain Removal - How to Remove Set-In Red Wine Stains From Clothing
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Even after spot cleaning, coffee can leave a stubborn brown stain behind. This is due to tannins and melanoidin pigments in the coffee that bind to the fabric. Thankfully, these pigments can be broken down using an oxidizing agent like oxygen bleach, which is a color-safe stain remover.​
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Mix the oxygen bleach: In a bucket or basin, mix hot water with the recommended amount of powdered oxygen bleach (follow the instructions on the product).
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Soak the stained fabric: Submerge the coffee-stained item in the solution and let it soak for up to 8 hours or until the stain is gone.
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Rinse and wash: Once the coffee stain is gone, rinse the garment thoroughly. Then, wash it as usual in the washing machine, or run a rinse and spin cycle to remove any remaining oxygen bleach.
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Repeat if needed: If the stain persists, repeat the soaking process until it’s completely gone.
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​Note: Oxygen bleach is safe for most fabrics, including colored and dark fabrics, and won’t damage the color.
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Final Tips
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Follow Product Directions: Always follow the instructions on stain removal agents, including mixing concentrations and application methods, for optimal results.
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Handle Delicates with Care: Avoid using these methods on delicate materials such as wool, silk, or other natural fibers. For these fabrics, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner to avoid damage.
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Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Always test cleaning products on a small, hidden area of the fabric, or on a sample piece of fabric, to ensure compatibility with the material before applying them to the stain.
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Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not use oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) outdoors or in direct sunlight, as the sun can accelerate the bleaching effect and may cause fabric damage.
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Use at Your Own Risk: These methods are offered for informational purposes, and we recommend using them at your own risk. Always exercise caution and, if unsure, consult a professional.