Coffee and tea are staples in most people’s daily routines, but unfortunately, they often leave behind more than just a morning pick-me-up—they leave stains. Tannin-based stains, like those from coffee and tea, are among the most common and challenging to treat. Whether it’s a fresh spill from a hurried sip on the way to work or an older stain you forgot about, knowing how to treat these types of marks can save your favorite clothing.
Why Coffee and Tea Stains Are Tough
Tannins, the naturally occurring compounds in coffee and tea, are the primary culprits behind these stubborn stains. Tannins are responsible for the color in both drinks, and when they hit fabric, they can penetrate fibers quickly. The longer the stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove because the tannins continue to bond with the material over time.
How to Handle Fresh Coffee Stains
When a coffee spill occurs, quick action is key. Follow these steps to stop the stain from setting:
- Blot, Don’t Rub: Immediately grab a paper towel or cloth to blot the excess liquid. Rubbing will only spread the stain and push it deeper into the fabric fibers.
- Check Garment Care Label If wet clean is an option, continue below. Otherwise, use a professional service.
- Rinse with Cold Water: Hold the stained area under cold running water. This helps to flush out as much coffee as possible before it sets.
- Apply a Stain Remover: After rinsing, apply a stain remover or a liquid detergent to the affected area. Gently work it into the fabric, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
- Wash As Usual: Launder the garment in cold water. Check the stain before drying. If it persists, avoid using the dryer, as heat will set the stain permanently.
- Always Remember: Avoid using the dryer, as heat will set the stain permanently.
How to Handle Older Coffee Stains
Sometimes, you don’t notice a coffee stain until it has dried. Here’s how to tackle an older mark:
- Check Garment Care Label If wet clean is an option, continue below. Otherwise, consider using a professional service.
- Soak in a Solution: Mix cold water with a mild detergent or white vinegar. Soak the stained garment in the solution for about 30 minutes to help loosen the tannins.
- Use a Stain Treatment: Apply a commercial stain remover or rub in a paste made from baking soda and water. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Wash Normally: Wash the garment in cold water, and air dry to avoid setting any remaining stain with heat.
- Always Remember: Avoid using the dryer, as heat will set the stain permanently.
How to Handle Tea Stains
Tea stains behave similarly to coffee stains because of their tannin content. The treatment process is almost identical:
- Check Garment Care Label If wet clean is an option, continue below. Otherwise, consider using a professional service.
- Blot the Spill: Start by blotting with a cloth or paper towel.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the stain under cold running water to prevent the tannins from setting.
- Stain Remover Application: Use a stain remover or liquid detergent, working it gently into the fabric.
- Wash: Wash in cold water and check for residual staining before drying.
- Always Remember: Avoid using the dryer, as heat will set the stain permanently.
What (Not) to Do
- Don’t Use Hot Water: While hot water is great for many cleaning tasks, it can cause tannin-based stains to set permanently in fabric.
- Avoid the Dryer: Only dry your garment once you’re sure the stain is fully gone. Heat from the dryer can lock the stain into the fabric.
How to Prevent Future Stains
To prevent coffee or tea spills from becoming permanent wardrobe woes, always act fast. Keep a stain remover pen handy, especially when you’re on the go, to catch stains before they dry.
If you’ve got a tough coffee or tea stain that you just can’t seem to handle on your own, your laundry + dry cleaning service is here to help! Your team specializes in treating even the most stubborn stains, offering free pickup and delivery for a stress-free laundry experience. Don’t let coffee chaos ruin your favorite clothes—reach out to us for a professional clean!