How to Remove Mayonnaise Stains

How to Remove Mayonnaise Stains on Clothes

1. Remove Solids

   Use a dull knife, spoon, or the edge of a credit card to lift the solids off the fabric's surface. Never rub at the solid mayonnaise because it can push the stain deeper into the fabric fibers and make removing it more difficult.

2. Apply Stain Remover

   Apply a solvent-based stain remover, like Shout or Zout. You may also use heavy-duty liquid detergent to the stain and work it in by gently rubbing it with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. Tide and Persil have adequate enzymes to break apart the oil.

3. Let the Stain Remover Sit

   • Allow the stain remover to work for at least 15 minutes.
   • Wash the garment in the hottest water advised for the fabric, following the guidance on its care label. 

4. Inspect and Dry

   • Inspect the stained area before machine drying. The dryer's high heat, especially on synthetic fabrics like polyester, can make the oil stain very difficult to remove.
   • If the stain persists, repeat the treatment as necessary before drying.

How to Remove Mayonnaise Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

1. Scrape Solids

   Scrape any solids using a knife, credit card, or spoon, the same way you would on an article of clothing. Again, never rub or wipe the stained area with a paper towel because it will push the mayonnaise deeper into the carpet or upholstery fibers.

2. Mix a Solution

   • Mix 2 cups warm water, 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent, and 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar.
   • Dip a clean white cloth, paper towel, or sponge in the solution and wring out the excess moisture.
   • Blot the stain.
     

3. Rinse

   • Rinse using another clean cloth dipped in tepid water to wipe down the stain.
   • Remove any detergent or mixture residue that can attract soil to the carpet or upholstery.
   • Blot again.

   Tip

   When using solutions on carpet or upholstery, be careful not to over-wet the stained area, as excess moisture can create mildew and mold.

4. Air Dry and Vacuum

   • Allow the area to air dry away from direct heat.
   • Vacuum to lift and restore the carpet fibers.
     

Additional Tips for Handling Mayonnaise Stains

• Be more persistent than the stain: If the mayonnaise stain persists, repeat the cleaning methods. Older or dried stains will be harder to remove, so know that you might need to repeat the cleaning process several times before the stain disappears. If the stain won't budge, even after multiple cleanings, consider consulting a professional dry cleaner, carpet cleaner, or furniture cleaning service.
• Act fast: As with any stain, the sooner the fresh stain can be treated, the better the chances of success for removal. Do not rub immediately. That will only push the stain deeper into the fabric fibers and make the stain harder to remove.
• Absorb the oil spot: You may also sprinkle baking soda onto the stain to help the oil-absorption process. You can apply the mayonnaise stain removal process to many other oil-based food stains, like salad dressing.
• Handling dry-clean-only fabric: If your stained garment is dry-clean-only, head to the dry cleaner and identify the stain. If you use a home dry cleaning kit, treat the stain with the provided stain remover pen before putting the garment in the dryer bag.
• Call a pro: If your stained upholstery is silk or vintage, call a professional and do not attempt to clean it yourself.
  
• Read the care label: Check the care label on the garment. While most cleaning methods are gentle enough for a diverse range of fabrics, knowing an item's specific care needs will help you choose the best stain-removal option.
• Test the fabric: First, test any detergent or cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not discolor the fabric.