How do I remove ketchup stains from my t-shirt?

Blot up excess ketchup with a paper towel or rag, pre-treat the stain with liquid detergent or vinegar and warm water, then wash and dry your shirt according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the stain still won’t budge, consider taking it to the dry cleaners.

How long should I let the pre-treatment sit?

Let the pre-treatment sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water and throwing your shirt in the wash.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Ketchup > Tshirt

Get Out Ketchup Stains for Good with These 4 Stain Removal Strategies!

Ketchup is one of those ubiquitous condiments that can end up finding its way on your clothes. Whether you're a messy eater or had a salad dressing mishap, ketchup is one of the most common stains you'll find on t-shirts. But don't worry, it doesn't have to be the bane of your laundry routine. With these four strategies, you can get out even the toughest ketchup stains and get your shirt looking fresh in no time.

Updated 01 Jul 2023

By Mateuzs Kowalski

Act Fast!

The golden rule of stain removal is this: treat the stain as soon as possible. The longer a stain has time to set into your fabric, the harder it will be to remove. When a ketchup stain makes its way onto your clothing, act fast and use a paper towel or old rag to blot up as much of the excess as possible before washing. This will help to keep the stain from embedding itself into the fibers of your shirt.

Pre-treat the Stain

After you’ve blotted the excess away, it’s time to move onto pre-treating stain. Depending on what you have available, there are several ways to do this. An effective method is to apply some liquid detergent directly to the stained area and then gently rub it in. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse with warm water. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water and soak the affected area for an hour or two. Once you’ve completed the pre-treatment phase, it’s time to throw your shirt in the wash!

Wash and Dry

When you’re ready to throw your shirt into the laundry, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Most cotton shirts can be washed in the washer using cold or warm water, then tumble dried on low heat. If the stain persists after the initial round of washing, go ahead and repeat these steps one more time. Make sure your shirt is completely dry before you declare it free of the ketchup stain.

Consider Professional Help

If stain still won’t budge after two washings, it may be time to call in a professional. While dry cleaning isn’t always necessary for a ketchup stain, it does offer better results sometimes and should be considered if all else fails. A dry cleaner will know exactly how to treat the stain and have the right equipment for the job.

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