How to Get Chocolate Out of Clothes

We love chocolate, but similarly to sprinkles or powdered sugar, it seems to end up everywhere except your mouth. And, unfortunately, one of those places is often your clothes or other fabrics. If you've found yourself in this predicament (assuming you have since you're here), we have good news: You can get chocolate out of clothes, it just requires a few steps. Here's how to wash chocolate stains:

Scrape off excess:
Use a blunt knife or spoon to gently scrape off any excess chocolate without spreading it further.

Cold water rinse:
Run cold water through the back of the fabric to flush out as much chocolate as possible.

Apply a stain remover:
Use Dilute® Kitchen Cleaner as a stain remover and apply a small amount directly onto the stain. Rub it gently into the fabric.

Soak:
Let the garment soak in cold water for about 15-30 minutes. This can help loosen the chocolate stain.

Wash:
Wash the garment in the washing machine using the hottest water temperature recommended for the fabric, along with your regular laundry detergent.

Check before drying:
Before drying the garment, check to see if the stain is completely gone. If it's still visible, repeat the steps above before drying, as drying can set the stain further.

Air dry:
If the stain is completely gone, air dry the garment. If not, avoid using heat until the stain is removed, as heat can set stains.

If the chocolate stain persists after these steps, you may need to try more intensive stain removal methods or seek professional help. Remember to always check the care label on your garment before attempting any stain removal process.

Are chocolate stains permanent?

Chocolate stains are usually removable, but it depends on several factors including the type of fabric or surface, how old the stain is, and the cleaning method you use.

We went over how to remove chocolate from fabric above, but for surfaces like countertops, you can use the same kitchen cleaner or a specialized cleaner depending on the material. It's essential to always check the care label or manufacturer's instructions before attempting any cleaning method.

Is hot or cold water better for chocolate stains?

For chocolate stains, it's generally recommended to use cold water rather than hot water. Hot water can actually set the stain, making it more difficult to remove.

Cold water helps to prevent the chocolate from melting further into the fabric or surface, making it easier to lift off.