How do I clean tomato sauce stains from furniture?

You can try the blotting method, sprinkle baking soda and wet vacuum, treat with a cleaning solution, and then rinse the area. For full instructions and a list of supplies, see our guide.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tomato sauce > Furniture

Tackling Tomato Sauce Stains: A Guide To Cleaning Furniture

Tomato sauce is a delicious topping for so many dishes, but unfortunately it can also be a menace to furniture when it spills. Whether you have a spot from a sauce-doused slice of pizza or a full-on tomato sauce warfare on your couch, this guide will help you battle the stains and leave your furniture looking as good as new.

Updated 22 Feb 2023

By Mateuzs Kowalski

Gather Supplies and Test the Fabric

Before attempting any stain removal, you’ll want to determine whether it is safe for the fabric of your furniture. If you’re not sure what kind it is, take a look at label for a description of material. Make sure to use cleaning supplies that are appropriate and safe for the fabric. You will also need to gather up some supplies including: white vinegar, baking soda, warm water, liquid laundry detergent, and a small soft brush (such as an old toothbrush).

The Blotting Method

The first step to removing tomato sauce stains is to try blotting method. Use a damp cloth to blot stained area to try and remove as much of moisture as possible. Do not scrub or rub the stain as this could cause it to spread or set more deeply into the fabric. Instead, just blot gently and repeat until the majority of the moisture is gone.

Sprinkle Baking Soda and Wet Vacuum

Once most of the moisture has been removed, you can sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area. This will help to absorb remaining moisture, and also pull out some of the tomato sauce residue. Wait a few minutes and then use a wet vacuum to suck up the baking soda. Be careful not to brush away the baking soda as this could once again spread the sauce.

Treat with a Cleaning Solution

Now you can mix up a cleaning solution to treat the stain. Start with a small bowl and mix together equal parts white vinegar and warm water. You can also add a drop of liquid laundry detergent to the mixture if you wish. Dip the small brush into the solution and then use it to gently scrub the stained area. Once finished, allow the solution to sit for several minutes before using a damp cloth to wipe away the residue.

Finally, Rinse the Area

To make sure all the cleaner is gone, you can rinse the area with plain warm water. Simply soak a clean cloth in the water and then dab it onto the area. Dry it off with a dry cloth, and voila! Your furniture should now be free of tomato sauce stains.

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