Iodine can come in handy when cleaning up a wound, but when it gets on a household surface it can be a real pain. Read on to learn how to remove iodine stains.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Acetate, Acrylic Fabric, Carpet
(synthetic or wool), Cotton,
Fiberglass, Linen, Modacrylic,
Nylon, Olefin, Polyester, Rayon,
Silk, Spandex, Triacetate, Wool

Since iodine is a dye, it must be treated immediately to prevent a permanent stain. Sponge (the method of using a dampened pad to apply light strokes, moving outward from the center of the stain) the area thoroughly with water. Add 1 teaspoon sodium thiosulfate to 1/2 cup warm water and stir until crystals are completely dissolved. (Handle carefully, as sodium thiosulfate can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, lungs and digestive tract.) Test the fabric with the solution; if color doesn't change, wet the stain with this solution, blotting with an absorbent pad. Flush (the method of applying stain remover to loosen staining material and residue from stain removers) well with clear water and repeat if necessary.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Acrylic Plastic, Ceramic Glass/Tile,
Glass, Paint (flat or gloss), Plexiglas,
Polyurethane, Porcelain Fixtures,
Vinyl Clothing, Vinyl Wallcovering

Wipe the stain with a cloth or sponge dipped in warm sudsy water to which a few drops of ammonia have been added. Rinse well and wipe dry.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Alabaster, Marble

Mix a few drops of ammonia with a cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide. Soak a white blotter (about the size of the stain) with the solution and place it over the stain. Weight it down with a piece of glass or other heavy object. Continue applying the solution until the stain has been bleached out. For tougher stains, make a bleach poultice from powdered detergent, bleach, and water. Apply this paste to the stain and cover with a damp pad to retard evaporation. Leave overnight. Then remove the dried paste, rinse the area with clear water, and dry.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Asphalt, Cork, Linoleum

Rub the stain with a cloth dampened in a solution of ammonia and water. If any stain remains, saturate the cloth in the solution and place it over the stain until it is either removed or no more stain is being lifted. Wash the area and wax as usual.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Bluestone, Brick, Concrete, Flagstone,
Granite, Masonry Tile, Slate, Terrazzo

Wash with a solution of washing soda or detergent (not soap) and water. Use a cloth or soft-bristled brush to help scrub. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and allow to dry.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Grout

Wipe the area with a cloth dipped in warm sudsy water. If any stain remains, dip a wet toothbrush into baking soda or powdered cleanser and gently scrub the spot. Rinse well and wipe dry.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Leather, Suede

Because iodine contains a dye, it affects the hide of these materials on contact. Therefore it cannot be removed.

How to Remove Iodine Stains From:
Wood

Mix dishwashing detergent in hot water and swish to make a great volume of suds. Dip a cloth in only the foam and apply to the iodine stain. Rinse with a clean cloth moistened with clear water. Polish or wax as soon as possible.

Iodine has its uses, but getting it on a household surface can cause serious problems. These stain removal techniques can keep iodine stains from becoming a permanent fixture in your household.