How to Remove Watermelon Stains From Clothes, Carpet, and Upholstery

How to Remove Watermelon Stains From Clothes

1. Remove Solids

   • Lift away any remaining solid watermelon chunks with a dull knife, spoon, or the edge of a credit card.
   • Blot out any liquid with a paper towel or napkin. Be careful not to rub the stain deeper into the fabric.

2. Flush the Stained Area

   Flush the watermelon-stained fabric as soon as possible.

   • Blot the stain with a white cloth or paper towel dipped in cool water.
   • Then place the garment under a running cold water faucet. Let the water run through the underside of the material to force the watermelon juice out of the fibers.

3. Treat the Stain

   • Use an enzyme-based stain remover or dab a bit of heavy-duty liquid detergent directly onto the stain.
   • Let the stain remover work for at least 10 minutes.
   • Wash as recommended on the fabric care label. Be sure to use a detergent with adequate enzymes to break apart the stain. Leading brands include Tide and Persil.​

4. Check the Stained Area

   Check the stained area. If the stain remains, do not machine dry the garment and move to the next step.

5. Mix a Soaking Solution

   • Mix a solution of warm water and oxygen bleach, such as OxiClean, Nellie's All-Natural Oxygen Brightener, or OXO Brite, following package directions.
   • Completely submerge the stained item and allow it to soak for at least four hours or overnight.
   • If the watermelon stain is gone, rinse well, and dry the fabric.
   • If the mark remains, repeat the oxygen bleach step.

How to Remove Watermelon Stains From Carpets and Upholstery

Use this method to remove watermelon stains from carpets and upholstery:

• Remove any solid pieces of watermelon, then use a white cotton cloth or white paper towel to blot up as much liquid as possible.
• Mix a solution of 2 teaspoons of dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of warm water in a small bowl.
• Dip a clean white cloth, sponge, or soft-bristled brush in the solution and apply the solution without saturating the fibers or mold will occur (especially in cushions).
• Keep blotting the stain from the outside inward until the stain is transferred.
• Rinse by dipping a white cloth and blot dry with a clean cloth. Rinse well because soapy residue attracts soil.
• Air-dry, then vacuum to lift the fibers.
  

Additional Tips for Handling a Watermelon Stain

For an older watermelon stain on carpet or upholstery, use oxygen bleach to blot the stain away. Blotting acids like diluted white vinegar or lemon may also help remove fruit juice stains like watermelon.

The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Never place a still-stained item in a machine dryer, as the high heat can set the stain and make it permanent. Resist the urge to rub the stain or it will push it deeper into the fibers and make it more difficult to remove.

If a garment is labeled as dry clean only, visit your dry cleaner as soon as possible and identify the stain. If your stained upholstery is vintage or silk, do not attempt to remove the stain at home. Instead, consult a professional cleaner.