Although it may look like it, getting rid of tea spills on clothes is complex. Certain instructions are necessary if one wants to succeed. Here is how to remove tea stains from clothes.
Step 1: Act Fast
The faster you address the tea stain, the better. It is always easier to remove fresh stains compared to those that have dried.
Step 2: Cold Water Rinse
Hold the stained area under cold running water. Rinse from the back of the stain towards its outer edges. This will help push it out of your fabric rather than deeper into it.
Step 3: Use Liquid Laundry Detergent
Caress the stained area of the texture with clothing cleanser or dish cleanser intended for liquids. Allow it to sit for about five minutes or even up to thirty minutes if need be, especially when dealing with an old stubborn stain.
Step 4: Soak in Warm Water
If the mark still remains after step three above, soak the whole garment in warm water mixed with enzyme-based stain remover for around half an hour to one hour, depending on how much time you have before doingf laundry again. Ensure that whatever product is being used here does not damage the fabric type involved.
Step 5: Wash Normally
Wash as per care label instructions using the warmest water recommended for the particular material involved.
Step 6: Double-Check
Before drying off completely, ensure that no trace is left behind. Once subjected to high heat during the drying process, anything missed will become a permanent part of the cloth!
Alternative Approaches
- Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water, then apply directly onto the affected area – leave this alone for a few minutes prior to rinsing away thoroughly;
- White Vinegar & Water Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water well, pour over the stained patch, let it set for a few minutes, and rinse clean like usual.
Lemon Juice—If your fabric happens to be light colored and colorfast, apply lemon juice on top where stained or soak it for a couple of minutes before rinsing out again.
Tips
Always test any treatment you’re using with small hidden part first to check for possible reactions;
Do not use hot water initially, as it might set the tea stain permanently;
For delicate/expensive items, consider hiring a professional cleaner who knows what they are doing so no further damage is caused.
With these steps, most of your clothes can be saved from tea stains and given back their originality.