What type of detergent should I use?

You can use a regular dishwashing detergent mixed with water to remove coffee and tea stains from calico fabric. For stubborn stains, pretreat with a commercial stain remover before laundering.

Can I put calico fabric in the washing machine?

Yes, calico fabric is safe to put in the washing machine. Choose the warmest setting that is safe for the fabric and use a laundry detergent designed for delicates. Line dry or tumble dry low.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Coffee and tea > Calico

Say Goodbye to Coffee & Tea Stains with These Easy Calico Cleaning Tips

Calico fabric looks amazing when it's clean and bright, but coffee and tea stains can quickly make them look dull and dingy. Luckily, removing coffee and tea stains from calico fabric doesn't have to be a complicated process. Follow these simple steps to get your calico fabrics looking pristine once again.

Updated 19 Jun 2023

By Nishat Asif

Step 1: Blot the Stain with a Damp Cloth

Start by blotting the coffee or tea stain with a damp cloth or rag. Do not rub the fabric since this could cause the stain to spread further. Instead, gently press the cloth against the stain and hold it for 10-15 seconds. This will help absorb some of the liquid and keep the stain from getting bigger.

Step 2: Treat Stain with a Mixture of Dish Detergent & Water

Mix together one teaspoon of dishwashing detergent with a cup of warm water. Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to apply the solution to the stained area. Work in a gentle, circular motion, taking care not to scrub too hard. Leave solution on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Step 3: Pretreat with a Commercial Stain Remover

While the detergent and water mixture should do an adequate job of removing the stain, you may want to also pretreat stain with a commercial stain remover. Read the instructions carefully and apply the stain remover directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then use a damp cloth to blot up the residue.

Step 4: Wash in the Washing Machine

Once the stain is removed, it's time to put the item in the washing machine. Choose the warmest setting that is safe for the fabric and add a laundry detergent designed for delicates. Wash as usual, then line dry or tumble dry low.

Step 5: Repeat If Necessary

If the stain is still visible after laundering, repeat the steps outlined above. It may take several tries to fully remove the stain, so keep at it until it's gone.

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