Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[Kriswis]

I recently made apple dumplings and the red juice from the apple got on a bright yellow t-shirt I had on. I've tried everything and it won't come out. Can someone give me ideas. Thanks.

[mrscleannw]

Hi Kriswis,
Welcome to Mrs Clean.

If you have washed and dried your shirt (in the clothes dryer) then the stain might be set.

Here are my tips for removing the red apple stains. It works best on fresh stains, but I?ve added an additional step with vinegar below in case the stain has been dried (heated) in the clothes dryer. Cross your fingers!

First soak the stain in full strength white vinegar for approx 30 minutes. The vinegar is a mild acid that will help dissolve the organic stain.

Boil some water on the stove and pull the shirt taught over the sink (you might have someone help you hold the clothing for you, then pour the boiling water on the stain and through the clothing.

If this does not work, you can also pour some full strength (3% solution) hydrogen peroxide from the medicine cabinet. Do not rinse it out, but let the garment sit and dry on the counter. (not in direct sunlight)If the stain lightens, you can try the hydrogen peroxide again.

If the last steps do not work, you may consider an enzymatic cleaner to help dissolve the stain.

I hope this helps and good luck with your stain!