Removing Chocolate Stains.

Quick Methods for Chocolate Stain Removal

I am yet to come across a child (or for that matter an adult), who does not like chocolate. The main attraction in chocolates is in the “melt in mouth feeling” that comes from of low melting temperature.

Chocolate comes from tropical rain forests of South America where the tasty secret of the cacao tree was discovered 2,000 years ago. The Maya and Aztec civilizations were known to consume chocolate. Luckily for us, chocolate traveled to distant corners of the world in a very short time we were able to enjoy the many sides of chocolate.

Now as much as it tastes good, it can be a pain to remove. The low melting temperature, cocoa butter and the milk solids can make a very unpleasant stain.

Follow these cleaning tips to make short work of your chocolate stains.

How to Remove Chocolate Stains from Carpets

Method 1

There are two methods of chocolate removal from carpets.

1. Remove as much chocolate as possible by using something like a butter knife. Something without a sharp edge so you don’t damage carpet fibers.
2. Get the shop vac and vacuum up loose bits of chocolate.
3. Mix 1/4 teaspoon liquid dish soap with one cup warm water.
4. Using a clean cloth, blot/dab the stain. Repeat as needed.
5. With a different clean cloth, rinse the area.
6. Cover until the carpet is dry.

Method 2

1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from Method 1.
2. Use plain white pieces of paper towel and cover the chocolate stain.
3. Get out the iron and place it on the lowest heat setting.
4. Run the iron on the paper towel over the stain.
5. Move to a clean piece of paper towel when needed.
6. If any color remains, use a carpet cleaner and carefully clean. Cover until dry.

How to Remove Chocolate Stains on Clothing

If the stain is on a delicate fabric, it’s best to take it to the dry cleaner.

Method 1

Cotton washable fabrics are generally easy to clean when it comes to chocolate stains. Typically, the stain will come out with standard pre-treatment and regular laundering. Be sure to check that the stain is fully gone before placing the item in the dryer.

Method 2

• Remove excess chocolate: Scrape off extra chocolate with a butter knife, using the smooth side of the blade to avoid fabric damage. This reduces the spread of the stain.
• Rinse with cold water: Run cold water over the stain for 30 seconds on the back side of the fabric to help loosen and rinse out the chocolate. Avoid hot water, as it may set the stain.
• Apply liquid laundry detergent: With your fingers rub liquid detergent directly onto the stain from both sides of the fabric and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, soak the item in cold water for 15 minutes, scrubbing gently every 5 minutes.
• Use baking soda if needed: For remaining stains, rub a bit of baking soda on both sides of the dampened fabric until the stain fades. Complete by washing as usual.

Remember, it’s always best to treat any stain as soon as possible for the best results.