Easy Remedies for Getting Chocolate Stains Out of Your Suit
Accidentally spilling that snack on your suit can be a nightmare, but don't despair! There are plenty of ways to get chocolate stains out of your favorite suit with minimal effort.
Updated 14 Feb 2023
By Peter Blackwood
Removing Fresh Stains from Suits
If you act quickly when your suit gets stained with chocolate, you can nip the stain in bud before it sets. Here are a few quick fixes for tackling fresh chocolate stains:
- If the chocolate is still in liquid form, blot it off gently with a paper towel. Don't rub or scrub the stain; this will only spread chocolate further and make it harder to remove later on.
- Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the stain. Leave it on the stain for a few minutes, then rinse off with cool water.
- Try using a solution of equal parts vinegar and warm water to blot the stain away. Later, rinse away the vinegar with cold water.
- If stain is still visible, pour some rubbing alcohol onto a cloth and dab the stain until it starts to fade. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with cold water afterwards.
Tackling Set-in Chocolate Stains
If you weren't able to deal with the stain right away, it may have already set into the fabric. To tackle these tougher stains, try out some of these techniques:
- Mix a teaspoon of liquid laundry detergent with ¼ cup of lukewarm water. Dab the stain with the solution, then follow up with a damp sponge. Rinse the area with cold water when you’re done.
- Carefully pour a quarter-size amount of liquid enzyme laundry detergent onto the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Afterwards, use a toothbrush to gently scrub the stain, then rinse the detergent away with cold water.
- If stain still won’t come clean, try a pre-treatment stain remover. Just make sure that the remover is safe for the fabric of your suit.
Preventing Chocolate Stains in the Future
Of course, the best way to deal with chocolate stains is to avoid them altogether. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent future chocolate disasters:
- Always check quickly that there’s nothing in your pockets before throwing your suit in the wash. If you find any chocolate remains, make sure to remove them before putting it in the machine.
- Keep your chocolate snacks away from your suits. Don’t munch on them while you’re wearing your suit, and try to store them in a spot that’s separate from where you usually keep your suits.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after eating chocolate-based treats. It’s almost impossible to avoid touching your suit while you’re eating, so make sure that your hands are free of chocolate residue before you do.