How To Remove Spinach Stains From Clothing and Upholstery

Steps to Remove Spinach Stains From Clothing

1. Remove Spinach Solids

   Remove any remnants of spinach using a dull knife or spoon edge. Take care not to press too firmly so that you don't grind the stain deeper into the fibers.

2. Sponge With Rubbing Alcohol

   Place the stained clothing on a clean cloth or paper towel. Sponge rubbing alcohol onto the stained area using a clean cloth.

3. Rinse With Cold Water

   Rinse well with cold water. If the stain remains, continue to the next step.

4. Apply a Baking Soda Paste

   Rub the stained area gently with a paste consisting of 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of water, Gently scrub with your fingers, a laundry brush, or a soft toothbrush.

   Wait 5 minutes, then rinse the fabric thoroughly with cool water.
   

5. Check For Remaining Stains

   Examine the area to make sure all traces of stain are gone. Spinach can sometimes leave a slightly yellowed area on the outer rim of the stain.

   If necessary, continue to the last step.

   Tip

   You may need to let the garment air dry to see if the stain is completely gone. Don't use a dryer, though, or the heat will set any remaining stain.

6. Use a Stain Remover

   Rub the stain with a stain remover stick, gel, or spray. Allow the solution to sit for at least 5 minutes.
   

7. Wash and Repeat as Needed

   Wash in the washing machine, per the garment's care label instructions, using a liquid laundry detergent.

   If stained patches remain, repeat the above steps. If the stain is gone, proceed to drying as usual.

Steps to Remove Spinach Stains From Upholstery

1. Remove Spinach Solids

   Remove any remnants of spinach using a dull knife or spoon edge. Take care not to press too firmly so that you don't grind the stain deeper into the fibers.
   

2. Sponge With Rubbing Alcohol

   Pour some rubbing alcohol onto a clean sponge and blot the stain. After each blotting, press a white towel onto the stain to help lift the green pigment from the fabric.

   Continue until the towel appears clean after blotting.
   

   Tip

   Don't over-wet the upholstery because moisture can damage batting and encourage mildew growth.

3. Blot to Remove Alcohol

   Blot the area with a clean towel moistened with water to remove as much of the rubbing alcohol as possible.

4. Absorb Excess Moisture

   Press a dry towel firmly on top of the damp area to absorb as much moisture as you can.

When to Call a Professional

If the stained garment is dry clean only, gently blot as much of the spinach spill as possible with a damp cloth, then take it to a professional cleaner. Vintage or silk upholstery should also be treated professionally to prevent damage.

Additional Tips For Handling Spinach Stains

If the spinach was mixed with other ingredients like oil, butter, cheese, or cream, start the stain removal process by sprinkling cornstarch on the stain. The powder will help absorb oils before applying alcohol.