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How to Remove Dandelion Stains From Clothing

Kathryn Hatter

Although adults tend to view dandelions with distaste, children often hunt for dandelions with gusto in hopes of gathering a fistful to present to a parent or loved one. As tiny hands pick long green stems, the sap that drips out of the severed stems can stain skin and clothing.

Remove dandelion stains from clothing by treating the stains.

Remove dandelion stains from clothing as quickly as possible and while the stains are still fresh because dandelion sap can be difficult to remove.

  1. Mix sodium percarbonate with hot water to form enough thick paste to work into the stained area. Lay the clothing out on the bath towel and rub the sodium percarbonate into the stain until you begin to see the stains lift. Leave the paste on the stain for 15 minutes and then rinse the fabric with warm water.

  2. Place the clothing in the washing machine and set the machine to a warm-water cycle. Add the appropriate amount of laundry detergent to the wash load and start the washing machine.

  3. Check for dandelion stains when you remove the clothing from the washing machine. If stains persist, continue to the next step.

  4. Apply an enzyme pretreat product to the stained area and allow it to sit on the stain for five to 10 minutes.

  5. Wash the clothing again in the washing machine using the same method as you used previously.

  6. Assess the dandelion stains to see if they remain in the clothing. If the stains are gone, dry the clothing according to the recommended care for the clothing. If the stains persist, proceed with the next step.

  7. Lay the clothing out on the bath towel. Saturate the dandelion stain area with lemon juice. Place the garment outside in natural sunlight, if possible. Leave the clothing outside for up to one hour.

  8. Wash the garment a final time in the washing machine. Dry the clothing in the dryer if the stain is gone.

The Drip Cap

  • Although adults tend to view dandelions with distaste, children often hunt for dandelions with gusto in hopes of gathering a fistful to present to a parent or loved one.
  • Remove dandelion stains from clothing as quickly as possible and while the stains are still fresh because dandelion sap can be difficult to remove.
  • Lay the clothing out on the bath towel and rub the sodium percarbonate into the stain until you begin to see the stains lift.
  • If stains persist, continue to the next step.
  • Lay the clothing out on the bath towel.