Remove Salad Dressing Stains from a Ball Gown with Ease
Stains on a ball gown can be difficult to remove, especially when the offender is greasy salad dressing. Luckily, there’s an easy cleaning method that can make your dress look pristine.
Updated 28 Feb 2023
By Cyryl Wozniak
To successfully remove salad dressing from a ball gown, use the following technique:
- Act as quickly as possible. Try to treat the stain immediately once it occurs, as dried-on residue will be more difficult to clean. If the fabric is delicate or dry clean only, take it to your local dry cleaner as soon as possible.
- Mix 1 part liquid dishwashing detergent and 5 parts cold water in a bowl. Soak a cloth or bristled brush in the solution and gently dab at the area until the stain begins to dissolve.
- Rinse out the solution with cold water. Applying a fair amount of pressure, blot the affected area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
- If the stain is still present, try adding a few drops of ammonia to the original dishwashing solution used before. Apply same technique as before and rinse with cold water.
- Sponge the area with clear, cool water. Blot the area with a cloth to absorb the moisture.
- Allow the ball gown to air dry. Do not put it in the dryer or iron it, or you may end up setting the stain.
If you're unable to remove the stain on your own, bring the garment to your local dry cleaner for professional assistance.