How to remove a Coffee Stain from a Cotton Blanket.
Evaluate the stain, color and material before proceeding. If the color is sensitive or the material is delicate you must modify your technique.
Coffee is a plant based stain (Tannin).
Depending on the color, material and severity of the stain will depend on the concentration of the solution and the technique to use*.
- Step One: Dilute laundry detergent with water to create the solution you desire, a good starting point is 1 ounce of liquid laundry detergent, 1 ounce of distilled white vinegar, and 10 ounces of water.
- Step Two: Test a hidden area for colorfastness.
- Step Three: Apply the solution to the stain.
- Step Four: Tap with a brush.
- Step Five: Let product rest on stain for 5-10 minute to penetrate.
- Step Six: Rinse area with fresh water.
- Step Seven: If necessary repeat steps Two – Six and increase the strength of solution until the stain is removed or if color allows then switch to a stronger stain remover.
*For large stained areas or Items with excess color loss**: Soak the entire item in the solution desired.
**Add one ounce of distilled white vinegar per gallon of water. This technique will help prevent uneven color fade.
Something Stronger – Enzyme Stain Remover – Found at your local grocery store.
- Step One: Apply the enzyme stain remover directly to the stain.
- Step Two: Tap with a brush.
- Step Three: Let product rest on stain for 15-30 minute to penetrate.
- Step Four: Rinse area with fresh water.
Remember to always evaluated color and material. Test for color bleeding in a hidden area of the garment before proceeding with any stain removal product. Using a white towel apply a small amount of the solution onto the towel and dab a hidden area of the garment. If color transfers to the towel re-evaluate the use of the product and technique. Rubbing and scrubbing can cause excess color lost.
Finish by cleaning the entire item as recommended by the care label.
Seek professional help if necessary. If you have a good relationship with your green dry cleaners they will be more than happy to help you with stain removal questions.
Karl Huie
Pacific Heights Cleaners in San Francisco and Sausalito is your resource for cleaning tips and garment care information.
A certified green dry cleaner by the Bay Area Green Business Program and the San Francisco Department of Environment.
Your non toxic dry cleaning alternative serving you with an EPA approved Eco Dry Clean (Wet Clean) System that is safe for your health and is environmentally friendly.
Other Articles of Interest:
How to Remove Red Wine from a Silk Decorative Pillow.
How to Remove Red Wine from a Cotton Blanket.
How to remove a Oil Stain from a Cotton Bed Quilt.
How to remove a Oil Stain from a Silk Bed Quilt.
How to Remove Red Wine from a Silk Decorative Pillow. How to remove a Oil Stain from a Silk Blouse.
