How do you remove a tomato stain from a cocktail dress?

Q: How do you remove a tomato stain from a cocktail dress?

To remove a tomato stain from a cocktail dress, start by blotting up any excess liquid with a cloth or paper towel. Next, create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar and apply it to the stain. Finally, place the dress in the wash and inspect it afterwards to make sure the stain has been removed.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tomato > Cocktail dress

Turn That Tomato Stain into a Red Carpet Ready Look

Tomato stains on cocktail dresses can make it look like you stepped out of a childhood food fight instead of a party. Before you rush to toss the dress in the trash, take a few moments to read these tips to learn how to remove that tomato stain and make your dress look cocktail-ready again.

Updated 17 Feb 2023

By Noemi Denker

Step 1: Blot Up the Stain

The first step in removing a tomato stain is to blot up as much of excess liquid as possible. For a fabric that can safely be wetted, use a clean cloth or paper towel and dab the spot gently. Do not rub or scrub the stain as this will only push it into the dress more. For fabrics that cannot get wet, use a soft bristled brush to lift away stains.

Step 2: Pre-Treat the Stain

Once as much of the liquid has been blotted away, pre-treat the stain to loosen it up and make removal easier. To do so, create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Dip a clean cloth into the mixture and then apply it to the stain. Allow the solution to sit for about five minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Wash Dress

Finally, it’s time to put your dress in the wash. Check the care label to make sure you are properly washing the material. After it’s done, inspect the dress to make sure stain has been removed. If not, repeat steps one through three to maximize your chances of success.

Bonus Tip: Use a Stain Remover

For particularly tough stain, a commercial stain remover can be used. Apply a generous amount of the product directly on the stain and allow it to work for several minutes before machine washing the dress. Following the instructions on the package carefully to ensure safe use.

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