How to Remove Pumpkin Stains From Clothes, Carpet, and Upholstery

How to Remove Pumpkin Stains From Washable Clothes

1. Remove Pumpkin Solids

   Remove any pumpkin solids from your garment with a dull knife, a spoon, or even the edge of a credit card. Do not scrape or rub; the friction will push the stain deeper into the fabric fibers.

2. Flush With Cold Water

   Run cold water against the back of the stained area to help flush the stain out. (Avoid hot water, which can set a stain.)

3. Pre-treat With a Stain Remover

   Apply a pre-wash stain remover like Shout or Resolve. If you do not have a stain remover on hand, use a bit of heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent like Tide or Persil that contains stain-lifting enzymes.

   Work the stain remover into the fabric with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush and allow the stain removal product to sit on the stained area for at least 15 minutes.

4. Wash as Recommended

   Wash as usual using the hottest water recommended for the fabric following care label directions,

5. Make Sure the Stain Is Gone Before Drying

   Check the stained area before putting the garment in the dryer because high heat can set the stain. If the stain remains, repeat the treatment steps.
   

How to Remove Pumpkin Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

1. Remove Pumpkin Solids

   Lift away all the excess pumpkin solids with a dull knife, spoon, or credit card edge.

2. Sponge the Stain With Soap

   Mix 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of warm water. Stir well to mix completely. Sponge the cleaning solution into the carpet fibers, working from the outside edge of the stain toward the center to prevent spreading the stain.

3. Rinse With Water

   Wet a clean white cloth or sponge with cool water and dab the area to rinse away any soapy residue, which can attract soil in the future and make the spot look darker.

4. Blot and Repeat

   Blot the area with paper towels or a clean cloth until the solution is absorbed. Repeat the treatment steps a couple of times with the cleaning solution until the stain is removed.

5. Air Dry and Vacuum

   Allow it to air dry away from direct heat. Vacuum the stained area to lift the carpet fibers.
   

Additional Tips for Handling Pumpkin Stains

• If a carpet stain is not budging at all, create a cleaning solution of 1 tablespoon of ammonia and 2 cups of warm water. Follow the above sponging steps, using the ammonia solution instead of soap. Again, always work from the outside edge of the stain toward the center.
• For pumpkin stains on most upholstery, follow the same cleaning method as for carpets but take extra care not to over-wet the fabric.

When to Call a Professional

If pumpkin, raw or cooked, lands on a garment labeled as dry clean only, gently remove the solids with a spoon or dull knife, then blot the stain with a damp cloth. As soon as possible, head to your professional cleaner and point out the pumpkin stain. 

You may also need professional assistance if the stained upholstery fabric is silk or vintage. Consult a dry cleaner to prevent damaging the fabric or for more stain removal tips.