Remove Mustard Stains with Ease from Your Suits
Mustard stains on a suit can be embarrassing and unsightly. Fortunately, there are several tricks for effectively removing them without damaging the fabric. Read on to learn more about how to rid your suits of mustard stains.
Updated 28 Feb 2023
By Noemi Denker
Removing Fresh Mustard Stains
If you catch the stain shortly after it occurs, you have the best chance of removing it. Take these steps:
- Using a clean cloth or paper towel, blot stain to remove as much of it as possible, being careful not to rub it in further.
- Mix a solution of mild liquid detergent (varying by fabric type) or white vinegar and cold water, 1 teaspoon of either per cup of water.
- Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the detergent or vinegar solution.
- Blot the stained area with the cloth until the stain is gone. Keep sponging and blotting until the stain has been removed.
- Rinse the area well and then blot with a dry cloth.
- Allow the fabric to air dry.
Removing Old or Set-in Mustard Stains
If you missed the stain when it was fresh, you may need to use stronger methods of cleaning. Try the following:
- Pre-treat the stain with a liquid laundry detergent, such as Tide®, using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Let the pretreatment sit for 10-15 minutes and then rinse with cold water.
- If the stain remains, make a paste of baking soda and water and spread this over the stain. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and then soak the stained area with a diluted solution of oxygen-based bleach and cold water.
- Rinse the garment again and lay flat to dry.
- If stain remains, repeat pretreatment and soaking.
Tips
- Always check fabric care labels before attempting to remove a stain.
- If there is no care label, test the cleaning solution on a discreet area of fabric prior to using on the actual stain.
- Never rub or scrub the stain — rubbing will push the stain into the fabric, making it harder to remove.
- Be sure fabric is completely dry before storing the garment.