How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains From Fabric

How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains on Washable Fabrics

Fruits and vegetables contain tannin, a plant component that often shows in the varying intensity of color in the final product. The tannin from the fruit or vegetable combined with sugar and spices creates the jam and jelly stains. Fresh tannin stains can usually be removed by washing the garment or table linens with good laundry detergent in the hottest water recommended for the fabric on the care label.

1. Remove Solids

   Lift as much of the solids away from the surface of the fabric as possible using a dull knife, spoon, or edge of a credit card. Be careful not to rub or wipe the stain because that only forces the stain deeper into the fabric fibers.

2. Blot

   Dip a clean white cloth or paper towel in plain water, and blot the fabric until you can wash the garment.

3. Wash the Clothing

   Wash the garment per the care label, then check the stain. If any stain remains, do not toss it in the dryer. Move on to the next steps instead.

   Warning

   Never use natural soap in a bar or soap flakes to treat the stain because soap can make tannin stains more difficult to remove.

4. Make a Soaking Solution

   Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach (brand names are OxiClean, Nellie's All Natural Oxygen Brightener, or OXO Brite) and lukewarm water following package directions. Mix enough of the solution to completely submerge the stained garment. Allow the item to soak at least four hours or overnight and then launder as usual. Check the stained area, if any marks remain, repeat this step.

How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains on Carpet and Upholstery

Why does the bread always fall on the carpet with the jelly side down? Take a deep breath and pick up the bread, but don't wipe or rub the spot.

Before cleaning any furniture, always follow the manufacturer's care label on cleaning upholstery. This tag can be found under the sofa cushions or fabric skirt with letter codes that indicate how to clean the furniture. Take extra care not to overwet the fabric because excess moisture in the furniture cushions can cause problems with mold and mildew. If the upholstery is vintage or silk, remove the solids and consult an upholstery cleaning professional.

1. Remove Solids

   Use a spoon or dull knife to remove as much of the solids as possible. Don't wipe or rub because you'll only be pushing the stain deeper into the carpet fibers.

2. Mix a Cleaning Solution

   Mix a solution of one teaspoon of hand dishwashing detergent liquid with two cups of warm water. Dip a clean white cloth or paper towel in the solution. Blot the jelly stain and keep moving to a clean area of the cloth until no more stain is transferred.

3. Rinse

   Dip a cloth in plain cool water to rinse the cleaned area. Blot dry with a clean cloth. It is important to rinse and remove all the soapy solution because any residue left can actually attract soil. If any stain remains, go to the next step, if not let the carpet air-dry and vacuum.

4. Mix a Soaking Solution

   Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach and water as per the manufacturer's directions on the label, and saturate the stained area. Allow the solution to remain on the stain for at least four hours and then blot away. Repeat as needed.

5. Air-Dry and Vacuum

   Allow the cleaned carpet area to air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. When dry, vacuum to lift carpet fibers.

Additional Tips for Handling Jam and Jelly Stains

If the stain is older and has dried and set, or if artificial dyes have been added to the jam or jelly, additional treatment may be needed. Always test in an inconspicuous spot before using these methods:

• You can treat stains on white cotton garments or linens with chlorine bleach. 
• Treat any remaining stains on the carpet with a clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. This treatment should only be used on a white or very light carpet because bleaching can occur.