Poop stains are one of the most common stains to get out because everyone poops. However, getting rid of poop stains can be tricky because of the color. If you know what you’re doing, however, there’s no reason why you can’t get those stains out before they cause permanent damage to your favorite clothes! So let’s get started:
How to Get Poop Stains Out of Clothes That Have Been Washed
Method 1: Use a Stain Remover
Poop is made up of water and organic matter like fiber and protein. You can use this knowledge to your advantage by using a stain remover designed for organic stains, such as the Shout Advanced Gel. This product contains enzymes that break down organic matter, so it should be able to break down the protein in poop.
To use this method:
- Dampen the stain with warm water before applying the stain remover.
- Apply the stain remover directly to the stain and let it sit for five minutes.
- Rinse away any excess liquid with cool water until no more residue remains on your garment.
Method 2: Use Warm Water and a little Vinegar
Vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help clean up poop stains on clothes. Just mix one cup of white vinegar with two cups of warm water in a spray bottle and spritz it on the stained area before washing as usual. Then let it sit for 5–10 minutes before moving on to the next step.
Method 3: Try rubbing alcohol if vinegar doesn’t work
If you’ve tried vinegar but still have some staining left over, try using rubbing alcohol instead. It’s also an antiseptic, which means it should kill any bacteria present in the stain and prevent it from spreading further into your fabric, especially if you’re dealing with a yeast infection like thrush or diaper rash. Rubbing alcohol works best when used alone if you want to use it along with another method (like vinegar).
Method 4: Use Hydrogen Peroxide
If your clothing has only been lightly soiled with poop, hydrogen peroxide can work wonders. It will bleach the stain and help get rid of the smell. Simply pour on hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing as usual. It’s best to use cold water when cleaning with hydrogen peroxide because hot water can set the stain in place even more firmly than before.
Method 5: Use Vinegar and Baking Soda (for older stains)
If you can’t get rid of a stain by bleaching it or using hydrogen peroxide, try soaking it overnight in vinegar or baking soda solution (one part vinegar or baking soda to two parts water). Then wash as usual.
This method works great on old stains that are set in places such as poop stains on white shirts or brown stains on dark clothes (the chemistry is similar).
Method 6: OxiClean
This laundry booster contains enzymes that help break down hard-to-clean stains like food, grass, and blood. It’s also effective against pet stains and odors! Just add 1/4 cup to your washing machine along with your regular detergent.
Method 7: WD-40
This multi-purpose lubricant has been used by military personnel for decades because of its ability to cut through grease and grime. Spray some WD-40 on the stained area before washing and launder as usual. The WD-40 will break down any remaining residue from poop that might be trapped in the fabric fibers.
Conclusion
With these tips, you’ll be able to get your clothes back to their original state and avoid having to throw them away. The best part is that all the ingredients are probably already in your home!
