Butter makes almost everything better, from yeast rolls to pasta. The one thing butter doesn’t improve? Your favorite shirt.
Butter stains may be annoying, but unlike other grease stains, they’re relatively easy to get out of your clothes as long as you act fast.
That’s why we’re sharing our 2 proven methods for removing butter stains at home. Pick your favorite, or feel free to combine them! If these don’t knock out the butter stain, give us a call and we’re happy to help you troubleshoot.
Method 1: Dish Soap
The Science: Dish soap is effective at removing grease stains because it contains molecules called surfactants. These surfactants have two ends:
Hydrophobic (water-repelling) end: Attracted to grease and oil.
Hydrophilic (water-attracting) end: Attracted to water.
When you apply dish soap to a grease stain and rub it in, the hydrophobic ends bind to the grease molecules, breaking them apart. Then, when you rinse or wash the fabric, the hydrophilic ends pull the grease and soap away from the clothing into the water, effectively lifting the stain.
Dish soap works so well because it’s designed to cut through tough grease on dishes, and that same property applies to greasy clothes!
Instructions:
- Step 1: Remove any excess butter gently with a knife or spoon.
- Step 2: Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain.
- Step 3: Gently rub the soap into the fabric using a soft-bristled brush or your fingers.
- Step 4: Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 5: Rinse the area with warm water to see if the stain lifts; if not, repeat the process before washing.
- Step 6: Wash the clothing item as the label directs – whether washing machine, hand wash, or dry clean only
Method 2: Absorptive Powder Technique (Baking Soda or Cornstarch)
The Science: Absorptive powders like baking soda or cornstarch work by soaking up grease from the fabric. These powders have tiny, porous particles with a large surface area, which allows them to physically absorb liquid grease. Through capillary action, the powder draws the grease out of the fabric and into itself, similar to how a sponge absorbs water. Once the grease has been absorbed, the powder can be brushed or vacuumed away, taking much of the grease with it.
This method works best on very fresh stains, and may be less effective on butter stains that have set for a while.
Instructions:
- Step 1: Liberally sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the butter stain.
- Step 2: Leave the powder on the stain for at least 30 minutes, or longer for deep stains.
- Step 3: Brush off the powder thoroughly.
- Step 4: If the stain persists, apply a little dish soap following the steps from Method 1.
- Step 5: Wash the clothing item as the label directs – whether washing machine, hand wash, or dry clean only
Tips for Butter Stain Removal Best Results
- Check the Butter Stain Before Drying: Always inspect the stained area before putting the garment in the dryer – heat can set the stain permanently!
- Not All Fabrics are Created Equal: While these tips are great for everyday fabrics, more delicate fabrics like Silk or Cashmere should not be subjected to DIY methods – they need a professional dry cleaner.
- Not Seeing Results? Hire a Pro: If you’ve attempted a round or 2 of DIY stain removal, it’s time to bring in a stain removal professional. At Kean’s, we’ve developed our stain removal techniques for over a century, and can make your clothes look as good as new!
