Ketchup Stains? No Problem! Learn How to Clean Ketchup Stains from Ball Gowns
Nothing puts a damper on your ballroom experience like a big ketchup stain on your beautiful ball gown. You don’t have to worry though - with a few simple techniques, you can remove ketchup stains and get your gown looking its absolute best.
Updated 01 Jul 2023
By Luke Smith
Gather Your Supplies
Before attempting to clean any type of stain, it is important to have the right supplies on hand to ensure your success. When dealing with ketchup stains, you will need the following items:
- Dishwashing detergent (preferably liquid)
- Distilled white vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Clean rags or towels
Remove Excess Ketchup
Using a clean, dry rag, gently remove as much of the ketchup as possible. This is important to prevent stain from being pushed further into the fabric as you attempt to clean it. Make sure the rag or towel you use is lint-free so as not to leave behind any additional fibers that could cause the stain to become more difficult to remove.
Create a Solution
Mix equal parts dishwashing detergent and distilled white vinegar in a bowl and stir until completely combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy. If the solution is too thin, add more dishwashing detergent until it thickens to desired consistency.
Apply the Solution
Using a clean rag or towel, apply detergent-vinegar solution directly to stain. Make sure to only use enough solution to cover the stain - using too much will likely damage the fabric. Rub the solution into the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Rinse With Water
After the 10 minutes has passed, use another clean rag or towel to gently rinse area with cool water. Be sure to use only clean water - using hot or warm water could set the stain even further.
Repeat If Necessary
Sometimes, depending on the severity of stain, you may need to repeat the process above one or two more times in order to completely remove the stain. If the stain is still present after the second attempt, try soaking the stained area in a solution of 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide and one quart of cool water for two hours. After the two hours are up, rinse the area with cool water and stain should be gone.
Conclusion
Removing ketchup stains from ball gowns can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps above, you can easily get your gown looking its best for the big night. Good luck!
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