How do I get a ketchup stain out of American Eagle clothing?

Act quickly and blot away excess stain right away. Then dab the stained area with a mixture of detergent and cold water and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse and repeat if necessary. Finish with a cold water wash cycle with a bleach alternative.

Do I need to use bleach?

No. You can use a bleach alternative such as oxygen or color-safe bleach to help remove any remaining stain residue.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Ketchup > American Eagle

The Easiest Way to Get Ketchup Stains Out of American Eagle Clothing

Wondering how to get ketchup stains out of your American Eagle clothing? It's easier than you think. Read on to find out the best way to get rid of those stubborn ketchup stains.

Updated 30 Jun 2023

By Mateuzs Kowalski

Cleaning ketchup stains from American Eagle clothing can seem daunting, especially if they have been set in for a few days. But don't worry - with the right approach, it is possible to get rid of them without damaging your clothes. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Act as Quickly as Possible

The faster you get to the stain once it goes on your shirt, jacket, or other article of clothing, better chance you have of removing it. If you are eating at a restaurant, ask for a cloth napkin immediately and blot the stain. This will help prevent the ketchup from setting into the fabric fibers.

Step 2: Dab, Don’t Rub

Once you have blotted the excess ketchup away, use a clean cloth dampened with warm water to gently dab the stained area. Do not rub - this can cause the stain to spread and worsen. Once excess has been soaked up, run cold water through the back of the fabric to flush away the stain. Let the fabric dry completely before attempting any further cleaning.

Step 3: Treat with Detergent & Cold Water

Mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with cold water and blend well. Using a clean cloth, dab the detergent mixture onto the stained area. This should break down the remaining ketchup residue and make it easier to remove. Let the detergent sit on the fabric for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with cold water. Reapply the detergent if necessary and repeat process until stain has been removed.

Step 4: Launder with Cold Water & Bleach Alternative

Once the stain has been removed, put the item in the washing machine and launder on the gentle cycle with cold water. Add a bleach alternative such as oxygen or color-safe bleach to the cycle and use a mild detergent. If you want, you can also add a ¼ cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help remove any remaining odors. Once the cycle is finished, hang the garment to dry or lay it flat. Your American Eagle clothing should be good as new!

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