How to Remove Soft Drinks and Soda Stains

Acetate, Fiberglass, Rayon, Silk,

Triacetate, Wool

Blot up what you can with a clean cloth. Sponge (the method of using a dampened pad to apply light strokes, moving outward from the center of the stain) the remaining stain with water. It is imperative that all the sugar be removed. Usually water will completely remove the stain, but if any remains, apply a wet spotter and a few drops of white vinegar. Cover with an absorbent pad and let it stand as long as any stain is being lifted. Change the pad as it picks up the stain. Keep the stain and pad moist with the wet spotter and vinegar. Flush (the method of applying stain remover to loosen staining material and residue from stain removers) with water. Repeat until the stain is lifted. If any sugar remains and turns yellow, it cannot be removed.

Acrylic Fabric, Cotton, Linen,

Modacrylic, Nylon, Olefin,

Polyester, Spandex

Blot up any excess with a clean cloth and flush the area thoroughly with water. This is usually enough to remove the stain, but to be certain the sugar is removed, launder immediately. If that is not possible, soak the stain in a solution of 1 quart warm water, 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar for 15 minutes. Rinse with water.

Acrylic Plastic, Alabaster, Aluminum,

Asphalt, Bamboo, Cane, Ceramic Glass/Tile,

Chromium, Copper, Cork, Glass,

Linoleum, Marble, Paint (flat or gloss), Plexiglas,

Polyurethane, Porcelain, Silver, Stainless Steel,

Vinyl Clothing, Vinyl Tile, Vinyl Wallcovering

Blot up any excess. Wipe the surface with a cloth or sponge dipped in warm sudsy water. Rinse well and wipe dry.

Bluestone, Brick, Concrete , Flagstone,

Granite, Limestone, Masonry Tile,

Sandstone, Slate, Terrazzo

Mix a solution of washing soda or detergent (not soap) and water. Gently brush (the method of using a stiff-bristled brush to sweep staining material up onto a piece of paper) the stain away. Wash with clear water and allow to dry.

Carpet (synthetic or wool)

Blot up what you can immediately. It is important to remove as much of the sugar as possible. Sponge the stain with water or flush area rugs with water. Blot as much liquid as possible and apply Spot Shot Carpet Stain Remover or Stain-X Carpet Stain Remover, following the directions on the label. If any stain remains, flush it with a solution of 1 quart warm water, 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Blot with a clean pad and rinse well with water. When no more liquid is being blotted, place an absorbent pad over the area and weigh it down. When no more is being absorbed, allow it to thoroughly air dry.

Leather, Suede

Blot up the excess. Mix a solution of mild soap in lukewarm water. Swish to create a great volume of suds. Apply only the foam with a sponge. Rinse well with a clean damp cloth and wipe dry. For leather only, condition with Tannery Vintage Leather Cleaner & Conditioner or Fiebing's Saddle Soap.

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 cola. Rinse well with a clean damp cloth and wipe dry. Do not allow water to remain on the surface. Polish or wax as usual.

Soft drinks are cool and refreshing. These stain removal techniques will guarantee you'll stay that way, even when faced with an unsightly soda stain.

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