How to Remove Avocado Stains From Clothes and Carpets

Removing Avocado Stains From Clothes

1. Scoop Away Excess Avocado

   Scoop up as much avocado as possible from the fabric with a dull knife or spoon. Don't press too firmly to avoid driving the stain deeper into the fibers.

2. Apply Liquid Laundry Detergent

   Rub liquid detergent liberally into the avocado stain. Allow the detergent to stand on the stain for at least five minutes so it can penetrate through the avocado, loosening oils and vegetative particles as it works.

   Tip

   Mild detergents and stain removers can be harsh on your skin and may destroy nail polish. Keep your manicure fresh by protecting it with rubber gloves when you do household chores and laundry.

3. Soak the Stain in Cold Water

   Soak the stain in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes or until the stain begins to fade.

   Every five minutes, rub the stained area gently between your fingers.

4. Rinse and Repeat

   Rinse the stained area thoroughly. Repeat these steps until every last hint of avocado has been removed.

5. Apply a Stain Remover 

   If traces of the stain remains, apply a stain remover stick, gel, or spray and let stand for five minutes.

   Wash the clothing in the hottest temperature recommended for the fabric.
   

   Tip

   Hot water will be much more effective at fully removing the stain, but be sure to follow your fabric guidelines. Otherwise, you may shrink or damage the fabric by washing it at too high a temperature.

Removing Avocado Stains From Carpets

1. Scoop Away Solids

   Lift excess guacamole solids away from the fibers with a spoon or dull knife. (Remember not to rub with a cloth, which will only push the stain deeper into the carpet.)
   

2. Sponge Stain With Soap

   Mix a solution of two teaspoons of liquid hand dishwashing detergent into two cups of warm water. Dip a sponge, cloth, or soft-bristled brush into the solution.
   

   Work from the outside edge of the stain toward the center to keep the stain from spreading.
   

   As the avocado is lifted from the carpet, blot it away with a clean cloth or paper towel until no evidence of the stain remains.

3. Rinse the Area and Blot

   Rinse the carpet by dipping a sponge in plain water and blotting the area until all soapy residue is gone.
   

   Use dry paper towels to blot and absorb the moisture. (If you skip this step, the soapy residue will attract more soil to the area.)

4. Air Dry and Vacuum

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

Additional Tips for Handling Avocado Stains

The same cleaning solutions and techniques recommended for removing guacamole stains from carpets can also be used for upholstery. Just take care not to over-saturate upholstered cushions because excess moisture can be harmful to the batting and even encourage mildew growth.

When to Call a Professional

For avocado or guacamole stains on dry-clean-only garments, it's best to consult your professional cleaner. You can use a dull knife or spoon edge to lift green goop from the surface of the fabric, then blot with a moist cloth dipped in plain water. As soon as possible, while the stain is still damp, head to the dry cleaner.

If your upholstery is silk or vintage, you should also consult a professional for assistance or additional stain removal tips.