What supplies do I need to clean insect repellent stains from crepe fabric?

To clean insect repellent stains from crepe fabric, you will need a white cloth, a bucket, 4 liters of lukewarm water, mild liquid detergent, and borax and baking soda (optional).

Do I need to use DEET-containing insect repellent differently?

Yes. When treating a stain from DEET-containing insect repellent on crepe fabric, you should allow it to soak in the cleaning solution for up to 30 minutes instead of the usual 15.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Insect repellent > Crepe

No More Insect Repellent Stains on Crepe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crepe fabric is light, airy and delicate... but it's not quite so carefree when it comes to removing insect repellent stains. If you're dealing with pesky spots left behind by bugspray or bug spray, fear not! This step-by-step guide will help you clean both regular and DEET-containing insect repellent off crepe fabric.

Updated 04 Mar 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Step 1: Assemble Your Supplies

Before you can start treating your crepe fabric, you'll need a few supplies. Gather the following items to get started:

White cloth
Bucket
4 liters of lukewarm water
Mild liquid detergent
Borax and baking soda (optional)

Step 2: Blot the Stain

Carefully blot the stain with the white cloth to absorb as much bug spray as possible. Don't rub the cloth against the stain as that can cause it to spread.

Step 3: Make a Cleaning Solution

Fill a bucket with four liters of lukewarm water and one teaspoon of mild liquid detergent. For extra protection, add a teaspoon of borax and one tablespoon of baking soda.

Step 4: Soak the Fabric

Place the fabric in the cleaning solution and allow it to soak for 15 minutes. If you are dealing with DEET-containing insect repellent, it is best to let the fabric sit in cleaning solution for up to 30 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse Fabric

Once it's done soaking, rinse the fabric with cold water until it is no longer soapy. Avoid using hot water, as this can cause the stain to set into the fabric and make it difficult to remove.

Step 6: Air Dry the Fabric

Hang the fabric in a well-ventilated area and allow it to air dry. Do not use a clothes dryer as this can cause the stain to set, making it even more difficult to remove.

Step 7: Repeat if Necessary

If necessary, repeat steps one through six until the stain is gone.

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