Are Mustard Stains Worse Than Ketchup Stains?
By Mulberrys
No two condiments are alike and each stain requires a different type of treatment. Dan Miller, Mulberrys CEO, shared his thoughts on the ketchup stains vs. mustard stains debate.
Ketchup vs. mustard stains. Which one is harder to remove?
“Mustard is what we call a combination stain so it requires multiple steps to remove. Ketchup is relatively straightforward, ” Dan explained. A combination stain includes multiple elements that each need to be treated. A ketchup stain is a plant-based stain.
How to remove mustard stains on clothing
Mustard contains dye from turmeric. Tumeric is a bright yellow powder obtained from a plant in the ginger family. To treat the mustard stains, gently blot the stain with a dry towel. Place a small amount of laundry detergent or enzyme-based stain remover on the stain to break down the base of the stain. Finally to remove the dye, use a color-safe bleach such as hydrogen peroxide. Let this sit for 10 minutes and then wash as usual.
How to get out ketchup stains
Ketchup stains, although tough to get out, are removed with acids such as lemon juice or vinegar. To treat, blot the stain with a towel or dishcloth, then pour vinegar on the stain and let it sit for five minutes. Rinse with cold water and pre-treat with an enzyme-based stain remover and wash it in your washer.
Mustard stains are worse, but ketchup isn’t far behind
Both condiments can cause some pretty intense stains on your clothing. Be sure to treat them on the spot! Learn more about how to treat the four types of stains. If you are unsuccessful at removing your stains, our team can use both wet cleaning and dry cleaning eco-friendly methods to treat them. Schedule a pickup or delivery or stop into one of our many locations in San Francisco and Minneapolis.