How to Get Kool-Aid Out of Clothes (2023)

Do you have the know-how to get Kool-Aid out of clothes? Having trouble removing Kool-Aid stains? How long does it take to remove a Kool-Aid stain? Any quick stain removal tricks or hacks? What to do if a dry cleaning garment is soiled with Kool-Aid?

The drink beloved by children the world over, Kool-Aid is the bane of our very existence. Try cold water and a clean blotter, ice water and borax, boiling water, dish soap and a baking soda paste, vinegar and a denture tablet, Oxiclean or a steam iron to remove the stain. The faster you remove the stain, the better chance you have of removing it.

This article provides solutions for Kool-Aid stains and how to deal with many other stains! The techniques shown here will help you understand why Kool-Aid stains clothes, which clothes remove stains more easily than others, and even how to remove Kool-Aid stains from carpet.

The chemistry behind stains

If you know the chemistry behind stains, you can remove them more easily. For obvious reasons, stains have numerous origins. Most stains come from food or drink spills, and the type of food determines the character, strength, and color of the stain.

Stains are a chemical reaction between the dye substance and another material. This material does not have to be specifically for clothing. Wood, walls, concrete and countless others are affected, but the nature of a stain is always due to a chemical reaction.

Stains form when molecules of a coloring substance coat a material and become trapped inside fibers, pores, or cells. This coating forms the ugly stain that reflects visible light waves in its characteristic color. For example, if "Hot Red Lipstick" is smeared on a blouse, all colors are absorbed except red light waves - and that is the color we perceive as "Hot Red".

However, the type of fabric or material can change the color of the stain. If it is a natural material such as cotton, silk or wool, the fibers will swell with water and the stain will penetrate deeply, resulting in a vivid stain. When the material is man-made, water-based substances usually have minimal effect, while oil-based stains are absorbed.

The origin of a material can also influence stain intensity and color. Because of this, Kool-Aid dyes natural fibers much more deeply than man-made fabrics. It's also why Kool-Aid comes off more easily from some clothes than others.

There are three basic dyes: water-based, oil-based and dye.

Water based pickling:

• Café
• T-shirt
• blood
• Ketchup
• jellies and jams
• Cola
• fruit juices
• leite

Oil based pickling:

• The image
• cooking oils
• butter and margarine
• chocolate
• Salad dressing
• Deodorant

Dye Stains:

• Kool-Aid
• dye
• wood color
• commercial dyes

Why dyes stain clothes

Dyes are typically transparent with small transmissive molecules that allow light to pass through. A dye can be suspended in an oil-, water-, or alcohol-based medium. Dyes used for wood products are very similar to those used for clothing.

Water-based dyes are long-lasting but can fade over time; Alcohol-based dyes fade a little faster, while oil-based dyes tend to fade faster than others. Unfortunately, since Kool-Aid is a water-based dye, you can expect effective, long-lasting coloring.

How to proceed with stain removal

stains are difficult to remove; Mustard, for example, is just as notorious as Red Kool-Aid. Mustard stains with a complex chemical reaction; When you think you've removed the stain, it may change from yellow to orange or red. The type of fiber, the type of substance that stains, and the amount of time the substance is in contact with your clothing directly affect removal efforts.

While not listed in the techniques below, DON'T forget the effectiveness of your regular stain remover stick or spray (a miracle worker in our modern times).

When removing a stain, approach the process knowing that:

• Multiple sessions are likely
• The process may take longer than expected
• Fresh stains have the highest chance of removal

Stains require strong solutions such as chlorine, enzymes, bleach, or special solvents to dissolve and remove the stain.

Chlorine bleach and peroxide bleach loosen stain particles from the fabric, breaking the bonds between the stain and the fibers, or make the stain colorless through oxidation. Oxygen bleach is safe for whites and colors, while chlorine bleach is only used for whites. Oxygen bleach can be purchased on its own or as part of a laundry detergent such as OxiClean.

Be aware - all bleaches (color safe or not) can damage clothing; Please follow all product instructions before use.

General stain removal tips and tricks

• Wet stains are always easier to remove than tough stains
• Consider carrying a stain pen in your purse or car so stains can be pre-treated quickly.
• Use a proper swab technique to remove excess stain (never rub or rub) before rinsing the area with cold water.
• Never put a dirty garment in the dryer until you are sure the stain is gone. Otherwise, the dryer will set the stain and make it permanent.

How to get Kool-Aid out of clothes

ATTENTION: Are your clothes dry-clean only? You should check your outfit if you are not sure. These techniques can only shrink, stretch, or damage dry-cleaned clothing.

If your garment can only be dry cleaned, take it to a professional dry cleaner, show them the location of the stain, and state that it is an ink stain. If so, a professional is better equipped to remove these stains. If your garment cannot be dry-cleaned only, continue with the seven techniques listed below.

Cold water

Work while the Kool-Aid stain is still wet, and blot as much of the stain as possible with a paper towel or clean cloth. Then turn the garment inside out and hold it under the faucet while running cold water over the stain.

You must do this from the inside out, as the running water will push the Kool-Aid back out instead of pushing it further into the fabric. Rinse for a full minute, then turn the garment right side out and continue drying. Repeat this process until the stain disappears. You can also try rinsing the stain with soda, seltzer, or even 7up soda, as the carbonation can destroy the dye and aid in removal.

pro tip: Dab, do not rub. Blotting involves applying downward pressure with a clean cloth, cloth or paper towel. Repeated rubbing is recommended as this will remove the stains, while rubbing/rubbing will spread the stains out - work on the outer edges of the stain first and work towards the center.

ice water/borax

Gently blot the stain continuously while using this technique. Fill a spray bottle 2/3 full with ice and top up with water. Spray the stain generously with ice water, then spray with Borax.

Immediately press the borax into the stain using proper absorption technique (do not rub or rub). Spray, apply borax and blot repeatedly until the stain is removed. Please do not use a toothbrush or rub clothing against yourself as this will spread the stain instead of removing it.

Once the stain is gone, let the garment air dry.

pro tip: Allow all clothing to air dry completely, as a light stain may go unnoticed until completely dry.

Boiling water

This technique works best on fresh stains, but it can also produce amazing results on dry stains. Avoid boiling water in a pot, as pots are not known for pouring accurately. It is best to boil water with a kettle, which allows for precise accuracy. Spilling boiling water can be dangerous; Please be safe and use your best judgment.

Place a large bowl in the sink and place the garment in the bowl with the stain in the center. Gently pour boiling water onto the stain for instant results.

Sometimes this will erase the stain in one go, and other times it will have lesser results; Either way, the stain should clear up. Let the garment sit for 30 seconds, then use tongs to remove it from the bowl.

Repeat this process as needed until the dye is removed. Rinse the garment in cold water and let it air dry.

pro tip: Never put dirty clothes in the dryer, as the heat will set the stain. Instead, hang it on a hanger to air dry or clip it to a clothesline.

Detergent/Baking Soda

Blot as much of the stain as possible, then pour liquid detergent over the stain. Leave the detergent on for ten to twenty minutes, then rinse with cold water. There will likely still be a slight stain; Create a paste with baking soda and water and apply it aggressively to the stain.

Leave the baking soda on for ten to twenty minutes, then rinse with cold water. Hand wash the garment in the sink under cold water and hold it up to the light. If you don't see a stain, it's done; If not, repeat these steps until you remove it.

pro tip: Kool-Aid is a very effective dye mordant (especially the red varieties). Act quickly if the stain is still wet. Your chances of finding out are much greater.

Vinegar pill and dentures

Spray ammonia, white vinegar, or rubbing alcohol directly onto the stain (never mix these chemicals; pick ONE and use it) and blot aggressively with a clean cloth. Rinse the garment in cold water and repeat the process. This may not completely remove the stain, but it should at least lighten it significantly. Then, dissolve some denture lozenges in a bowl of water and soak the garment overnight. Rinse with cold water and hold the affected area against the light; If the stain persists, repeat the process until it is resolved.

pro tip: Always test your stain removal technique on an inconspicuous area of ​​the garment to ensure it does not cause damage.

Oxygen bleach or OxiClean

Oxygenated bleach is not the same product as Clorox, chlorine or pure bleach; It can be safely used on natural or synthetic colors and white. If you've tried the techniques above and it doesn't remove the stain, this method should work.

If you don't have oxygenated bleach, use OxiClean (using the same measures and times as indicated). Add ¼ cup of peroxide bleach to a small bucket of warm water. Let the garment soak for four to eight hours, then hand wash it in the sink with a little detergent. Air dry the garment as usual and check for remaining stains or residue. Repeat if necessary.

pro tip: Despite rumors online, adding aspirin to a bath will do nothing to get rid of stains. aspirin + water = salicylic acid, which has no blemish-fighting properties; it is more of an anti-inflammatory and exfoliating agent.

steam iron

This technique is a last resort; It works on fresh, hardened, and even old carpet stains. While this technique is very effective, it also has the most potential to damage your clothes, carpet, and you. Please proceed with caution; Children should never attempt this; This is an adult-only method.

Place the stained garment in the center of the ironing board. Make sure your iron is filled with water and set to medium heat with the steam function activated. Using a spray bottle, liberally apply a 50/50 solution of ammonia in water.

Cover the garment with a small, clean towel soaked in hot water; it shouldn't be dripping, but very damp. Place the steaming iron over the damp towel and make circular motions over the stained area for 30 seconds.

Keep the iron moving to avoid burning the towel or clothing underneath. Do not press the iron; Let the weight of the iron do its work. After 30 seconds, lift the iron and inspect the towel and clothing.

You will find that the stain has come off the clothing and transferred to the towel. Repeat the steaming process as needed until the stain is gone. Hand wash clothes in the sink with detergent.

Let the garment air dry and check for any remaining stains.

pro tip: Try a combination of the techniques shown here if you get only minimal results.

Kool-Aid Dying

Kool-Aid is a dye. If you are unable to remove the stain at the end of the day, you can use Kool-Aid to dye the garment the color of your choice. This method is affordable and a fun project for kids.

Soak your garment in a bucket of water for 30 minutes before preparing the Kool-Aid dye. Using a saucepan, bring four to six cups of water to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and add your choice of Kool-Aid coloring (sugar-free); Red varieties generally last longer. The more packaging used, the heavier or darker the color of the garment.

Do not mix or match packages as this will result in a mixed dye. Pick a color and stick with it. One pack will have light results, while three packs should be quite dark.

Add ¼ cup of distilled white vinegar to the solution and stir. Vinegar is a crucial ingredient as it microscopically etches the fibers, allowing the dye to penetrate deeper. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately place the garment in the dye and stir until completely soaked.

Let garments in the Kool-Aid color sit until cool, then rinse with cold water and air dry.

pro tip: Use it while it's hot! A heated Kool-Aid paint is much more effective than applying it cold. Keep in mind that Kool-Aid dye works best on natural fibers like cotton, wool, linen, and silk. The use of synthetic materials will give temporary or poor results.

A Brief History of the Kool-Aid

In 1927, in Hastings, Nebraska, an enterprising man named Edwin Perkins invented the Kool-Aid. Edwin already had a successful line of juice concentrates called "Fruit Smack" that were sold in stoppered bottles, and he wondered if he could simplify the process and save money on shipping costs. Edwin created Kool-Ade (later renamed Kool-Aid) shortly after being introduced to the Jell-O powder product.

Kool-Aid has always been affordable, selling for ten cents a pack, and unlike many other products, demand for Kool-Aid actually increased during the Great Depression. Edwin reduced the cost of the Kool-Aid from ten cents to five cents to make it even more affordable. He also added small toys and cardboard cutouts to increase the appeal for children.

Edwin eventually obtained a government contract to include lemonade Kool-Aid packets in World War II ration packets. This has made Kool-Aid a globally recognized and recognized product.

The original Kool-Aid flavors were: Lemon, Lime, Grape, Cherry, Raspberry, Strawberry, Orange, and Root Beer! To this day, each packet of Kool-Aid has a unique color and slight differences in ingredients. Any color, especially the red varieties, can deeply stain surfaces and clothing. In the event of a spill, you must act quickly.

Conclusion

We wish you the best of luck on your stain removal adventures. Remember to approach the process patiently, knowing that multiple sessions are likely. If one of the techniques above doesn't work, try the next one or develop a set of techniques that work for you. Share your insights in the comments! I hope this article has been of value to you. Please comment if you have any questions and share this article with your friends!