Breathe Life into Whites
How to get toothpaste out of clothes
Accidents happen, especially when you have kids, and toothpaste stains on clothes can be quite stubborn to remove. But fear not, there are some effective methods to help you clean up those pesky stains and restore your clothes to their former glory. In this blog, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of toothpaste stains on everything from work shirts to your favourite jeans to make sure all your clothes are properly cared for. From pre-treating the stain to washing the clothes, with these tips and tricks, you'll be able to handle toothpaste mishaps with ease and confidence.
Step 1: Pre-treat the stain
To start the stain removal process to get toothpaste out of clothes, it's important to pre-treat the affected area first. Start by gently scraping off any excess toothpaste using a spoon or a dull knife. If you’re using a knife, be careful with the blade and make sure to only use a gentle scraping motion so you don’t damage the fabric – you only have to remove the top layer as the rest of our how-to guide will tell you how to work deeper to remove the rest of the stain. After you’ve removed the excess, rinse the stained area thoroughly with cold water. This will help dilute the stain and prevent it from setting further into the fabric.
Step 2: Apply Vanish stain remover
Start by selecting a stain remover that is appropriate for the fabric of your clothes. If the fabric is cotton or polyester, select Vanish Oxi Action Multipower stain remover powder, if it’s wool or silk, select Vanish Oxi Action Multipower stain remover gel. Apply the stain remover directly to the toothpaste stain, following the product's guidelines. Gently rub the stain remover into the fabric using a soft cloth or with your fingers. Allow the stain remover to penetrate the fabric for a few minutes, giving it time to work its magic. With this step, you'll be one step closer to saying goodbye to that stubborn toothpaste stain. For best results on coloured garments, opt for a colour-safe stain remover to prevent any fading or discoloration, such as Vanish Oxi Action Multi Power powder. It removes tough stains even at 20 degrees and prevents colour transfer. If you want to know how to get toothpaste stain out of white clothes, look for a stain remover specifically designed for white clothes to ensure optimal results, such as Vanish Oxi Action Crystal White powder.
RECOMMENDED
- Breathe Life into Clothes
- Breathe Life into Clothes
Step 3: Wash the clothes
First, check the wash symbols on the care label on your garment to determine the appropriate washing instructions. Different fabrics require different care, so it's important to follow the recommended temperature and detergent for your specific garment. Explore our range of stain removers to find the product that’s best for your fabric type. If the fabric allows, you can wash the clothes in the washing machine – but make sure to always check your garment labels first. However, for delicate fabrics, it may be necessary to hand wash them instead. Not sure on how to treat different fabrics? Read our blog post ‘How to remove stains from fabric?’ to learn more.
Step 4: Inspect the stain
Once you have washed the clothes, it's important to inspect the stained area to determine if the toothpaste stain has been completely removed. Sometimes, stubborn stains may require a bit more effort to fully disappear.
Take a close look at the stained area and check for any remnants of the toothpaste stain. If you still see traces of the stain, it's best to avoid putting the clothes in the dryer. Heat can set the stain, making it even more difficult to remove. Instead, repeat steps 1 to 3, including pre-treating, applying a stain remover and washing the clothes again. Be patient and persistent in your stain removal efforts. Remember, it may take a few tries to eliminate the stain. With determination, you'll be able to restore your clothes to their original condition.
Step 5: Air dry and assess
After successfully removing the toothpaste stain, it's important to air dry the clothes. This step ensures that the stain is completely gone and allows you to assess the results of your stain removal efforts.
Hang the clothes up or lay them flat on a clean surface, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Direct heat can cause the stain to set, making it more difficult to remove. By air drying the clothes, you give them the best chance to fully dry and for any remaining traces of the stain to disappear.
Once the clothes are dry, take a close look at the stained area and assess the results. If there are any faint traces of the stain remaining, you can consider using alternative methods such as spot treatments or seeking professional help. Remember, every stain is different, and some may require additional steps to eliminate.
Step 6: Prevent future toothpaste stains
Toothpaste stains on clothes can be frustrating, but there are measures you can take to prevent them in the future. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can minimise the chance of encountering toothpaste mishaps.
Top tip: try and encourage your kids to brush their teeth in the bathroom and away from their clothes. Brushing your teeth can be a messy process, so remind them to be careful while applying toothpaste and to avoid excessive squeezing, as this can lead to accidental spills. Additionally, consider using a toothpaste dispenser to control the amount of toothpaste used and allow for cleaner application.
Always have a stain remover handy
Even by preventing the chance of getting toothpaste on your clothing, we all know that accidents can happen. While prevention is always better than figuring out how to get toothpaste stains out of clothes later on, it’s always worthwhile having effective stain removers to hand. For stains on white clothes, use the Vanish Oxi Action Crystal White Powder – this will restore the brilliance to your lighter fabrics. If you have stains on your coloured clothing, use the Vanish Oxi Action Multi Power Powder and it can bring the brightness back to your coloured garments and prote. By following these preventive measures, you can save yourself the hassle of removing toothpaste stains from clothes in the future.
Conclusion
Removing toothpaste stains from clothes doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these simple steps, you can effectively get rid of toothpaste stains and restore your clothes to their original condition. Remember to pre-treat, apply a stain remover, wash properly, and be patient throughout the process. With a little effort and the right techniques, you'll be able to tackle toothpaste stains like a pro. So, next time you encounter a toothpaste mishap, you'll know exactly what to do. No need to panic next time your child squirts the toothpaste tube down their new top or you get toothpaste down your favourite shirt. Happy brushing!