Easy Ways to Get Rid of BBQ Sauce Stains from Your Cocktail Dress
Barbecue sauce stains can be very hard to remove from your favorite cocktail dress. The good news is, there are some simple tips and tricks you can follow that will help get rid of those pesky BBQ sauce stains and have your dress looking like new again.
Updated 20 Jun 2023
By Luke Smith
Tips for Removing BBQ Sauce Stains From Clothing
- First, try blotting the stain with a clean, damp cloth. This will help absorb some of the barbecue sauce that is on the surface of the fabric.
- Next, mix together a solution of one part dishwashing detergent and three parts cold water. Use a sponge or cloth to gently rub this mixture into the stain. Be sure not to scrub the fabric too harshly.
- Once the detergent mixture has been applied, rinse the area with cold water. Repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible.
- If the stain is still not completely gone, try applying a small amount of white vinegar to the area. Let it soak in for a few minutes before rinsing with cool water.
- When you’re finished, allow the garment to air dry. Do not put it in the dryer since heat can set the stain and make it harder to remove.
Additional Tips
- For particularly stubborn stains, try using a pre-treater product designed for removing grease and oils. This can help break down components of the barbecue sauce that are causing the stain.
- If you’re worried about damaging the fabric, test the cleaning solution on a small, discreet area of the garment first.
- If you’d like to prevent further staining, apply a fabric protector to garment after it is clean and dry.
Precautions
- Always read and follow the care instructions on your garment label.
- Be sure to use only cold water when cleaning BBQ sauce stains, as hot water can cause the stain to spread.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleaches on the fabric, as these can cause serious damage.
- If all else fails, take your garment to a professional cleaner.