How to Remove Sweet Potato Stains From Clothes, Carpet & Upholstery

How to Remove Sweet Potato Stains From Clothing

1. Remove Solids

   Scrape away excess sweet potato from the fabric with a dull knife or spoon. Take care not to rub too hard; you don't want to damage the fabric.

   Tips

   Don't rub at the sweet potato with a napkin or cloth, as this can push the stain even deeper into the fabric fibers.

2. Rinse With Cold Water

   Flush the stained area with cold water, working from the back of the fabric to help loosen any remaining solids.

3. Apply Stain Remover

   Pretreat the stained area with a spray or gel prewash stain remover like Shout or Resolve. If you don't have a stain remover, use a bit of heavy-duty laundry detergent like Wisk or Persil that contains enough of the stain-lifting enzymes that will cut through any oil in the stain.

4. Rub in Stain Remover

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

5. Wash the Garment

   Next, wash as usual using the hottest water recommended for the fabric on its care label directions. Once washed, 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 Sweet Potato Stains From Carpet And Upholstery

If the stained upholstery is vintage or delicate, call in a professional rather than attempting to treat it yourself with the following steps. However, most carpet and upholstery can be successfully treated as outlined below. Be safe, however, by first treating an inconspicuous spot to be sure there is no change to carpet or upholstery color.

1. Remove Solids

   Lift as much sweet potato off the carpet or upholstery as possible, using a dull knife, spoon, or even the edge of a credit card. Do not rub, which will smear the food further into the fibers.

2. Mix Cleaning Solution

   Combine one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with two cups of warm water in a clean, empty spray bottle.

3. Spray the Stain

   Spray the stained area of carpet or upholstery, working from the outer edge of the stain towards the center to prevent spreading. Take care not to overly saturate upholstery, but do wet the affected area thoroughly.

4. Blot the Stained Area

   Blot the treated area with a clean, dry cloth or paper towels. Continue to blot until the stain lifts. If the stain lingers, spray it again and continue to blot until the stain is gone and the treated area is damp, not wet. If the stain persists, move on to step 5.

5. Treat Persistent Stains (Optional)

   Mix one tablespoon of household ammonia and two cups warm water in a clean, empty spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained area of carpet or upholstery. Use a clean cloth or paper towels to blot at the stain, continuing to spray and blot until the stain is gone.

6. Rinse the Treated Area

   Wet a clean white towel or paper towel with plain water and sponge the treated area to rinse away any soapy residue. Don't overly saturate the fabric or carpet, however. Allow to air dry.

7. Vacuum Carpet

   Vacuum carpet once it's dry to fluff the carpet fibers.

Additional Tips for Handling a Sweet Potato Stain

If sweet potatoes stains remain even after following the above treatments, it's time for a professional. Take the stained garment to a dry cleaner, or make a call to your local carpet cleaners. Professionals have access to stronger cleaning products and cleaning devices than you are likely to have at home. Be sure to let them know what treatments you've already done, as well as the nature of the stain.