How to Get Egg Yolk Out of Clothes (Remove Egg Stains With Our Guide)

There’s nothing quite like a sunny side up egg to start your day. But what happens when the dippy egg ends up on your clothes instead of your plate of egg and soldiers?

Egg stains can be stubborn, especially if they’re left to set. But don’t worry, it’s not impossible to remove.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll teach you how to get egg yolk out of clothes, carpets, and upholstery like a pro.

What You Will Learn in This Post

• The science behind why egg stains are so difficult to remove.
• Step-by-step instructions on how to remove egg stains from clothes, carpets, and upholstery.
• Tips and tricks for treating stubborn stains and preventing them from setting in the future.

The Science Behind Egg Stains

Egg stains are protein-based, which means they can’t be treated like other types of stains. When protein-based stains are exposed to heat, they coagulate and bind to the fibers of the fabric, making them particularly stubborn. This is why it’s important to treat the stain as soon as possible and avoid using hot water or a dryer until the stain is gone.

How to Remove Egg Stains from Clothes

Step 1: Remove Excess Material

If the egg is still wet, use a dull knife or the dull edge of a spoon to gently scrape off as much of the egg as you can. Be careful not to rub or scrub the stain, as this can push it deeper into the fibers of the garment. If the egg has dried, you can try to loosen the dried egg by scraping it gently with a dull knife.

Step 2: Pre-Treat the Stain

Apply a small amount of heavy-duty liquid detergent directly onto the stain. Gently rub the detergent into the stain using a soft-bristled toothbrush or your fingers. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the detergent to penetrate and break down the proteins in the egg.

Step 3: Rinse and Soak

Rinse the stained area under cold running water to remove the detergent and loosened egg particles. Then, fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a tablespoon of enzyme-based laundry detergent. Soak the garment in the detergent solution for at least 30 minutes to further break down the proteins.

Step 4: Launder as Usual

After soaking, launder the garment as you normally would, but avoid using warm water or placing the garment in the dryer until you’re sure the stain is completely gone. Heat can set the stain, making it nearly impossible to remove.

How to Remove Egg Stains from Carpets and Upholstery

Step 1: Scrape Off Excess Egg

Just like with clothes, the first step in removing an egg stain from carpet or upholstery is to remove as much of the excess material as possible. Use a dull knife or spoon to gently scrape off the egg, being careful not to spread the stain or push it deeper into the fibers.

Step 2: Blot the Stain

Using a clean, dry cloth or paper towel, blot the stained area to absorb as much of the egg as possible. Remember to blot, not rub, to avoid spreading the stain or pushing it deeper into the fibers.

Step 3: Apply a Cleaning Solution

Mix a solution of two cups of cold water and one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent. Apply the cleaning solution to a clean cloth or sponge and gently blot the stained area. Be sure to work from the outside of the stain towards the center to prevent the stain from spreading.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the area withcold water to remove the cleaning solution, then blot with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture. Allow the area to air dry. Once dry, vacuum the area to restore the texture of the carpet or upholstery.

Tips and Tricks for Treating Stubborn Stains

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, egg stains can prove to be stubborn. Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you remove those stubborn stains:

1. Use an Enzyme-Based Stain Remover: Enzyme-based stain removers are particularly effective at breaking down protein-based stains like egg. Apply the stain remover according to the instructions on the bottle, then launder as usual.
2. Try a Vinegar Solution: If you don’t have an enzyme-based stain remover on hand, you can make a homemade stain remover using white vinegar. Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with 1/2 cup of cold water. Apply the solution to the stain, then blot with a clean cloth.
3. Avoid Heat: As mentioned earlier, heat can set protein-based stains, making them more difficult to remove. Always use cold water when treating egg stains, and avoid placing the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone.

Preventing Egg Stains from Setting

The best way to deal with egg stains is to prevent them from setting in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent egg stains from becoming a permanent fixture on your clothes, carpets, or upholstery:

1. Act Fast: The sooner you can treat the stain, the better. Fresh stains are always easier to remove than set-in stains.
2. Blot, Don’t Rub: Rubbing a stain can spread it and push it deeper into the fabric. Always blot stains to lift them out of the fabric.
3. Rinse from the Back: If possible, rinse the stain from the back to push it out of the fabric, rather than pushing it deeper into the fabric.
4. Test Cleaning Solutions: Before applying any cleaning solution to a stain, test it on a small, hidden area first to make sure it won’t damage the fabric.

With these tips and tricks, you should be able to tackle any egg stain that comes your way. Remember, the key is to act fast and avoid heat until you’re sure the stain is gone. Happy cleaning!

Conclusion

Egg stains don’t have to be a breakfast disaster. With the right knowledge and tools, you can effectively remove egg yolk from clothes, carpets, and upholstery. Remember to act as soon as possible, use the right cleaning products, and follow these instructions carefully. With a little patience and persistence, you’ll be able to remove egg stains from your clothes like a pro. Now, go enjoy your sunny side up – just be careful not to spill!