How quickly should I treat an insect repellent stain on my cotton piqué?

As soon as you can! Treating a stain right away can make it much easier to remove.

What kind of detergent should I use?

For best results, use a mild liquid detergent or a paste of powdered detergent that won't drip off the fabric.

Do I have to repeat the process if the stain doesn't come out?

You may need to repeat the process until the stain is completely gone. With a little bit of patience and elbow grease, you’ll be able to get those pesky insect repellent stains out in no time.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Insect repellent > Cotton piqué

How to Clean Insect Repellent Stains from Cotton Piqué

Having trouble getting rid of stubborn insect repellent stains on your cotton piqué? Don’t worry—we’ve got the perfect solution for you.

Updated 04 Mar 2023

By Blaž Stančič

Cotton piqué is a great material for lots of tops, trousers and more, but it can be tricky to clean when its been splashed with insect repellent. Thankfully, there are some easy techniques that can help get these pesky stains out.

First Step: Treat Stain as Soon as Possible

The quicker you act on a stain, the easier it will be to remove. Timely treatment can mean difference between getting a stain out completely and having to live with it forever. So don’t delay!

Second Step: Make a Soap Solution

Once you’ve identified the stained area, mix a solution of lukewarm water and a mild liquid detergent. If you don't have liquid detergent, a paste of powdered detergent will also do trick. For best results, make sure that the paste is thick enough so that it won’t drip off the fabric.

Third Step: Blot the Stain

Take a clean, white cloth or paper towel and gently dab at stained area. Take special care not to rub the fabric — this can cause the stain to spread even further.

Fourth Step: Soak the Stain

Once you’ve blotted out as much of the stain as possible, it’s time to give it a good soaking. Dip stained area of the fabric into soap solution. Allow it to soak for 15-20 minutes before you take it out.

Fifth Step: Rinse and Dry

Once the stain has been soaked, rinse the fabric with cold water until all traces of the insect repellent and soap solution have been removed. Then, lay the fabric flat to dry. Avoid using the dryer, as high temperatures can set the stain.

Final Step: Repeat if Necessary

If stain persists after first attempt, you might need to repeat process. Don’t worry—with a little bit of patience and elbow grease, you’ll be able to get those pesky insect repellent stains out in no time.

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