How to Remove Ketchup Stains Quickly

In This Article

Removing Fresh Ketchup Stains
Removing Old Ketchup Stains
Does Baking Soda Work?
Additional Tips
FAQs

Project Overview

Working Time: 5 - 10 mins
Total Time: 5 mins - 1 hr

Skill Level: Beginner
Estimated Cost: $5

Ketchup is our favorite condiment on all sorts of summer foods—until it lands on our clothes. Like most stains, ketchup or any tomato-based stain is easier to remove right after it happens.

We have tips to help you tackle fresh and set-in ketchup stains effectively with cold water, household products, and a few simple steps.

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How to Remove Ketchup Stains — The Spruce / Michela Buttignol

Stain type	Tannin-based
Detergent type	Liquid laundry detergent, stain remover
Water temperature	Cold
Cycle type	Follow garment care label

Equipment / Tools

1 spoon or dull knife
1 old toothbrush

Materials

1 bottle enzyme-based liquid laundry detergent
1 bottle stain remover (Optional)
1 container oxygen-based bleach powder

items to remove ketchup stains — The Spruce / Michelle Becker

How to Remove Fresh Ketchup Stains

Lift Off the Ketchup

Lift as much excess ketchup from the fabric as possible with a spoon or dull knife. Never rub the stain—it pushes the ketchup deeper into the fibers, and you don't want that.

If you can't treat the stain right away, blot the area with a damp paper towel or napkin.

The Spruce / Michelle Becker
Run the Stain Under Cold Water

As soon as possible, hold the wrong side of the fabric under a running cold water faucet to flush the ketchup from the fibers.

Cleaning Tip

Be sure to use cold water—hot water will set in any tomato-based stain.

The Spruce / Michelle Becker
Apply Detergent or a Stain Remover

Rub a dab of an enzyme-based liquid laundry detergent or stain remover into the stain in a circular motion using a soft-bristled nylon brush.

Work from the outside edges of the stain toward the center to prevent spreading the stain.

The Spruce / Michelle Becker
Wash as Usual

Wash the garment as you normally would in cool water. Hot water should only be used if the stain has been successfully removed.

The Spruce / Michelle Becker
Air-Dry Clothes

To make sure all traces of the stain are gone, play it safe by air-drying the stained garment to prevent the heat of the dryer from permanently setting the stain.

What to Do If the Stain Doesn't Come Out

If traces of the ketchup stain remain after a full removal treatment, mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach powder and cool water. Follow the label guidelines for how much powder to use per gallon of water.

Submerge the entire garment in the solution and allow it to soak for 4 to 8 hours.

Check the stain, if it is gone, rinse well and air dry. If it remains, mix a fresh solution and repeat the steps.

How to Remove Dried-On Ketchup Stains

Begin by using an old toothbrush or spoon to scrape off as much dried ketchup as possible. Flush the stain from the wrong side of the fabric with cold water and then fill a sink with cold water and submerge the entire garment to soak for 15 to 30 minutes.

Then follow the same cleaning steps recommended for fresh ketchup stains.

Does Baking Soda Remove Ketchup Stains?

Baking soda alone will not remove ketchup stains. But, if you'd like to use it, combine it with hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice to make a paste to help bleach white fabrics that have traces of discoloration from old stains.

Start by following the recommended stain removal guidelines. Mix a paste of equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice. Spread the paste on the stain and let it dry. Wash the garment and repeat as needed. This mixture should not be used on colored fabrics because it can cause color loss.

Additional Tips for Tackling Tomato Stains

For dry clean-only clothing, lift away fresh ketchup stains, visit a dry cleaner as soon as possible, and point out and identify the ketchup stain.
Add an oxygen-bleach booster to your laundry detergent to help remove fresh ketchup stains.

FAQ

Does ketchup permanently stain?

If the garment has already been in a dryer or washed in very hot water without being treated, the ketchup stain may be impossible to remove. Try soaking the garment in a solution of oxygen bleach and water for eight hours and checking the stain. The process may need to be repeated with a fresh solution several times.
Why does ketchup stain?

Tomato-based products, such as ketchup, have high levels of tannins in them. A tannin is an organic dye that stains clothing.
What takes ketchup out of jeans?

To remove ketchup from jeans, use a soft-bristled brush to apply a good dishwashing liquid, like Dawn, in a circular motion on the stain. Let the liquid work for at least 10 minutes. Wash the jeans as usual in cool water.