How to Remove Chocolate Stains

I am yet to come across a child (or for that matter an adult), who does not like chocolate. The main attraction in chocolates is in the “melt in mouth feeling” that comes from of low melting temperature.

Chocolate comes from tropical rain forests of South America where the tasty secret of the cacao tree was discovered 2,000 years ago. The Maya and Aztec civilizations were known to consume chocolate. Luckily for us, chocolate traveled to distant corners of the world in a very short time we were able to enjoy the many sides of chocolate.

Now as much as it tastes good, it can be a pain to remove. The low melting temperature, cocoa butter and the milk solids can make a very unpleasant stain.

Follow these cleaning tips to make short work of your chocolate stains.

Removing Chocolate Stains on Carpets

Method 1

There are two methods of chocolate removal from carpets.

1. Remove as much chocolate as possible by using something like a butter knife. Something without a sharp edge so you don’t damage carpet fibers.
2. Get the shop vac and vacuum up loose bits of chocolate.
3. Mix 1/4 teaspoon liquid dish soap with one cup warm water.
4. Using a clean cloth, blot/dab the stain. Repeat as needed.
5. With a different clean cloth, rinse the area.
6. Cover until the carpet is dry.

Method 2

1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from Method 1.
2. Use plain white pieces of paper towel and cover the chocolate stain.
3. Get out the iron and place it on the lowest heat setting.
4. Run the iron on the paper towel over the stain.
5. Move to a clean piece of paper towel when needed.
6. If any color remains, use a carpet cleaner and carefully clean. Cover until dry.

Removing Cocoa or Chocolate Stains on Clothing

If the stain is on a delicate fabric, it’s best to take it to the dry cleaner.

Method 1

Cotton washable fabrics do not present any additional problems when it comes to removing chocolate stains. It usually comes out with regular pre-treating and laundering. Don’t put the item in the dryer until you know the stain is gone.

Method 2

If necessary, remove any clumps of dried chocolate first.

1. Pour white vinegar over the stain.
2. Use your fingernail or a clean toothbrush to gently clean the stained area.
3. Let sit about 10 minutes.
4. Rinse with water.

If you notice there is still a bit of discoloration, apply a drop of Dawn dish soap and gently clean. Wash as usual.

Remember, it’s always best to treat any stain as soon as possible for the best results.