Getting Ketchup Out of Your Pants: A Quick and Easy Clean
Accidentally spilling ketchup on your clothes is one of the most dreaded culinary catastrophes. Not to worry, though! Here are a few tips and tricks that will help you get those stubborn stains out of your favorite jeans or trousers.
Updated 30 Jun 2023
By Nishat Asif
Step-by-step Guide for Ketchup Stain Removal
- Gently scrape off any excess ketchup from the stained area with a butter knife.
- Make a solution of 1 teaspoon of washing detergent mixed in 1 quart of warm water.
- Dab the solution onto stain with a clean cloth.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water to remove the solution.
- Launder as usual.
Other Methods to Try
- For fancier garments, try using rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is especially effective on dried up stains.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and dish soap to create a pre-soak mixture. Allow the garment to sit in mixture for at least 15 minutes before laundering.
- If the ketchup stain is still visible after laundering, mix ¼ cup of borax and ¼ cup of warm water and rub it directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then launder as usual.
- Consider using stain remover sprays that are specifically designed for greasy stains.
Additional Tips
- Pre-treat stains with a homemade solution right away.
- Ensure that you check label before using any products to avoid further damage to the fabric.
- Check the care label on the garment to make sure that the method you’re using is appropriate.