How to Remove Ice Cream Stains

After such a long, brutally cold winter, it seems like just about everyone is on edge.  But as the days slowly begin growing warmer, we’re all excited for the arrival of Spring and the return of blue skies, singing birds, and everyone’s favorite warm weather treat – ice cream!   This sweet dessert is the perfect addition to any sunny afternoon… until it melts.  Ice cream stains can be tough to remove, so this season be prepared; learn how to treat the stains now so you can act fast next time your ice cream cone drips onto your favorite shirt.

New stains on clothing/fabric:

1. Immediately put the stained item into cold water for 5-10 minutes, or longer if the stain is dried. Avoid hot water, which can make the stain set further.
2. If the stain is still visible, rub an enzymatic detergent on it and soak the item in room temperature water for at least 30 minutes, gently rubbing the stain every 3-5 minutes.
3. Rinse the item thoroughly and apply a stain remover stick, gel, or spray. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
4. Continue soaking and applying stain remover until the stain is gone.
5. Wash the item according to the directions on the label.

Old stains on clothing/fabric:

1. Using a spoon or dull knife, scrape off as much of the stain as possible.
2. Rub an enzymatic liquid laundry detergent onto the stain and soak the item in cold water for several hours, occasionally rubbing the area gently between your fingers.
3. Rinse the item thoroughly and apply a stain remover stick, gel, or spray. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
4. Continue soaking and applying stain remover until the stain is gone.
5. Wash the item according to the directions on the label.

Upholstery:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid hand dish soap with 2 cups of cool water.
2. Sponge the stain with a clean white cloth, blotting until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Repeat until the stain is gone.
4. Sponge with cold water to rinse, and blot dry.

Carpet:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid hand dish soap with 2 cups of warm water.
2. Sponge the stain with a clean white cloth, blotting until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Repeat until the stain is gone, or until it’s no longer being absorbed into the cloth.
4. If the stain is still visible, apply an enzyme cleaner suitable for protein-based stains.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to dilute and apply the product.
6. Sponge with cold water to rinse, and use a clean cloth to blot dry.