How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains From Fabric

How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains From Washable Fabrics

Fruits and vegetables contain tannin, a plant component that affects their color intensity. The tannin from the fruit or vegetable combined with sugar and spices creates stubborn jam and jelly stains. Fresh tannin stains can usually be removed by washing the garment or table linens with good laundry detergent in the hottest water recommended for the fabric on the care label.

1. Remove Solids

   • Lift as much of the solids away from the surface of the fabric as possible using a dull knife, spoon, or the edge of a credit card.
   • Do not rub or wipe the stain, which can force it deeper into the fabric's fibers.

2. Blot

   • Dip a clean white cloth or paper towel in plain water.
   • Blot the fabric, aiming to lift as much of the stain as possible until you can wash the garment.

3. Wash the Clothing

   • Wash the garment per the care label, then check the stain.
   • If any stain remains, do not toss it in the dryer. Move on to the next steps instead.

   Warning

   Never use natural soap in a bar or soap flakes to treat the stain. Soap can make tannin stains more difficult to remove.

4. Make a Soaking Solution

   • Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach and lukewarm water to remove tougher stains. Follow the package directions (popular brand names include OxiClean, Nellie's All Natural Oxygen Brightener, or OXO Brite).
   • Make enough of the solution to completely submerge the stained garment.
   • Allow the item to soak for at least four hours or overnight and launder as usual.
   • Check the stained area. If any marks remain, repeat this step until the stain is removed.

How to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

Before removing stains from furniture, always follow the manufacturer's care label to clean upholstery. This tag can be found under the sofa cushions or fabric skirt with letter codes that indicate how to clean the furniture. Take extra care not to overwet the fabric, as excess moisture in the furniture cushions can cause problems with mold and mildew. If the upholstery is vintage or silk, remove the solids and consult an upholstery cleaning professional.

1. Remove Solids

   • Use a spoon or dull knife to remove as much of the solids as possible.
   • Do not rub or wipe the stain, which can force it deeper into the textile fibers.

2. Mix a Cleaning Solution

   • Mix a solution of 1 teaspoon of hand dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of warm water.
   • Dip a clean white cloth or paper towel in the solution.
   • Blot the jelly stain and keep moving to a clean area of the cloth until no more stain is transferred.

3. Rinse

   • Dip a clean cloth in plain cool water to rinse the cleaned area. Rinse until all soapy solution is removed, as any leftover residue can attract more soil.
   • Blot dry with a fresh clean cloth.
   • If any stain remains, go to the next step. If not, let the carpet air-dry and vacuum it.

4. Mix a Soaking Solution

   • Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach and water as per the manufacturer's directions on the label.
   • Saturate the stained area and allow the solution to remain on the stain for at least four hours.
   • Blot the stain away, then repeat as needed until it is completely removed.

5. Air-Dry and Vacuum

   • Blot upholstery fabric to remove excess moisture. Allow the cleaned area to air dry away from direct heat and sunlight.
   • When carpet is dry, vacuum to lift the fibers.

Homemade Cleaners to Remove Jam and Jelly Stains

Vinegar

Use vinegar to remove jam and jelly stains by mixing one part white vinegar with two parts water. After scraping the solids away with a dull knife or spoon, apply the solution to the stain, then let it rest for a few minutes. Rinse the fabric and blot it with a clean white cloth before air drying. If any color remains, repeat the cleaning solution.

Dish Soap

Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of warm water, then apply it to the jam or jelly stain. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean white cloth. Rinse the fabric and blot it with a clean white cloth before air drying. If any color remains, repeat the cleaning solution.

Additional Tips for Handling Jam and Jelly Stains

If the stain is older and has dried and set, or if artificial dyes have been added to the jam or jelly, additional treatment may be needed. Always test in an inconspicuous spot before using these methods:

• You can treat jam or jelly stains on white cotton garments or linens with chlorine bleach. 
• Treat any remaining stains on the carpet with a clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. This treatment should only be used on a white or very light carpet because bleaching can occur.