Sweat, grease or the passage of time? All three!
The yellow stains appear when we least expect them, and the causes can vary. The frustration of not knowing how to treat them properly is real, especially when they appear on the sofa or on your favourite white clothes.
The worst part? Besides being an aesthetic nuisance, yellow stains are also a challenge to clean, as they can be really difficult to remove. On top of that, they tend to reappear over time. So, how can we tackle this problem effectively? And most importantly, how can we prevent it from happening again?
In this article, we’ll explore some practical tricks to remove yellow stains not only from clothes but also from sofas, mattresses and carpets. Discover our maintenance tips too, and make sure your items stay impeccable for longer.
How to remove yellow stains from clothes?
Yellow stains that appear on clothes are a common problem. But don’t worry — they don’t have to be a nightmare! When the stain is caused by sweat or grease, for example, there are simple and effective solutions you can try at home — with ingredients you probably already have in your cupboard.
For light stains:
A classic but powerful combination: baking soda and vinegar. The former helps absorb the grease, while the latter works to remove the yellowish colour.
Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of white vinegar and a little water. Apply this mixture directly to the stain and leave it to work for about 30 minutes before washing.
For stubborn stains:
An enzymatic detergent can be the ideal solution. These detergents help break down the proteins responsible for the stains, without damaging the colour of the clothes. Apply it directly to the stain and leave it to work for 15 minutes before washing.
And what about white clothes?
White clothes are particularly vulnerable to yellow stains, as any sign of dirt is more noticeable. That’s why this type of delicate fabric requires extra care.
For stubborn stains:
Hydrogen peroxide can be an excellent option. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide (3%) with two parts water and apply it directly to the stain, leaving it to work for at least 15 minutes. Rinse the item well before washing it in the machine.
For deep cleaning:
Add half a cup of baking soda to the detergent in the washing machine, when washing white clothes. This will help remove stains and keep white clothes looking brighter.
You’ve probably been surprised by the versatility of baking soda. But in truth, it’s a powerful ally for your household cleaning. In the article: How to use baking soda for cleaning sofas, curtains and carpets we explain everything about this ingredient!
How to remove yellow stains from the sofa?
The sofa is also one of the main victims of yellow stains. The cleaning tricks are actually very similar to those used for clothes.
For light stains:
Use mild detergent diluted in warm water. To do this, put a few drops of detergent into a bucket of warm water and apply it to the stain with a clean cloth. Gently rub and remove the excess with a dry cloth.
This method works well on fabrics that are not very delicate.
For stubborn stains:
The answer: hydrogen peroxide. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water and apply it directly to the stain. Leave it for about 15 minutes and wipe off with a damp cloth.
Does your sofa have other stains that need attention? We’ve gathered a series of tips for you in our article: How to clean the sofa? Learn how to remove stains effectively.
How to remove yellow stains from the mattress?
Treating yellow stains on mattresses is a process very similar to treating yellow stains on sofas. So, try the tips presented in the previous section.
How to remove yellow stains from rugs and carpets?
Even sun exposure can cause yellow stains on your rugs and carpets. Since they are used in high-traffic areas, these stains can become a bigger problem. Try our tips:
For light stains:
A home remedy is to use cornstarch, which helps absorb stains and odours. To do this, sprinkle a small amount onto the stain and gently rub it in. Leave it for about 20 minutes, then vacuum up the excess.
For stubborn stains:
When it comes to tougher stains, also try hydrogen peroxide. The same mixture: one part hydrogen peroxide to two parts water. Apply it to the stain and leave it to work. Rinse with a damp cloth and watch how the colour of your carpet is restored.
How to prevent the appearance of yellow stains?
Better than knowing how to clean them is knowing how to prevent them. Prevention involves small care steps and simple habits that you can easily add to your cleaning routine:
- Try to wash clothes as soon as possible after use;
- Use protective covers on your sofas and mattresses;
- Waterproof your fabrics and upholstery;
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and cleaning products;
- Avoid sun exposure and regularly ventilate your furniture;
- Maintain a regular cleaning and upkeep routine for your clothes and upholstery.
When to seek professional cleaning?
Although the tips and home methods we’ve presented can be effective in removing yellow stains, there are situations where the stains persist — either because they are old and deep, or because they are on more delicate fabrics. In such cases, it can be difficult to achieve the desired results without compromising the quality or integrity of the material.
And if, after all your efforts, yellow stains still persist, then it’s time to seek a professional solution. Biomex offers specialised Deep Cleaning services for sofas, mattresses and carpets, using advanced techniques and specific products that ensure effective stain removal without damaging the materials. With the help of our experts, the toughest stains will be treated safely and efficiently, restoring the beauty and freshness of your items.
Furthermore, sofa waterproofing also helps prevent the formation of new stains.
Don’t let yellow stains spoil the comfort of your fabrics. Trust Biomex.
We provide home services throughout mainland Portugal, whether at your home or business!
Need more information or advice? Get in touch with us!
