How to Get Chocolate Out of Clothes

Chocolate stains on clothing can be stubborn, especially if left untreated. Unlike some stains that may improve with time, chocolate stains tend to become more challenging to remove over the long term. Knowing how to effectively hand-wash clothes is essential, especially when dealing with tough stains like chocolate. While a washing machine has its limits, and a dryer may set the stain with heat, a targeted hand-washing treatment can make a significant difference.

When stains are concerned, time is of the essence, and taking immediate action is necessary. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully remove chocolate stains from clothes:

Removing Fresh Chocolate Stains Out of Clothing

Remove Excess Chocolate

Remove any excess chocolate from the clothing. Freezing the chocolate can make it easier to lift off without smearing. Lift smudges with the help of a plastic credit card or a nutter knife. 

Cold Water Rinse

Push the stain out of the fibers by running cold water through the back side of the garment or cloth. Ensure thorough cleaning by treating both sides of the stain. 

Apply Detergent or Dish Soap

Use your regular laundry detergent, liquid dish soap, or laundry stain treatment to treat both sides of the stain. Dish soap is effective on natural materials such as silk and cotton because it breaks down oils from the chocolate.

Let It Sit

Give the treatment time to break down the oils from the chocolate by letting it sit for a few minutes.

Move to Cold Water

Move the treated garment into a sink or bowl of cold water before rubbing at the stain. If the garment is white, you can add 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide to the water, but test it on a small, inconspicuous area first for dyed or colorful garments.

Massage and Soak

Allow the garment to sit in water with minimal agitation as it absorbs the water. Massage the stain with your fingers to lift it. Repeat this process until the stain is removed.

Rinse and Line-Dry

Rinse in fresh, cold water and let the garment line dry flat. If the stain persists, use a stain-removing gel or spray both sides and repeat the process.

Regular Laundering

Launder the garment according to instructions once the stain is completely gone.

Removing Set-In Chocolate Stains

Create a Cleanser

Create a concentrated cleanser by mixing one part water, vinegar, and 1/4 cup of detergent in a bowl.

Soak Overnight

Soak the stained area in this liquid overnight to break down the set-in stain.

Agitate and Spot Treat

Agitate the stain in the morning with your fingers and apply a spot treatment to both sides of the fabric before laundering.

Rinse and Line-Dry

Rinse the garment and let it line dry. Resume laundering the item as usual once the stain is gone.

Tackling tough stains like chocolate requires swift action. Quick thinking and immediate treatment can significantly increase the chances of successfully lifting chocolate stains from clothing. Prevent stains from setting in during the wash by attending to them immediately.