Steps to Remove the Coffee Stain

  1. Using the paper towels, blot the stain using a firm lifting motion until little or no stain comes off on the paper towel. DO NOT rub the stain as that may spread the stain further.
  2. Rinse the back side of the stain with cold water (do not rinse the front of the stain yet, as this may actually spread the stain)
  3. In the small dish or cup, mix powdered laundry detergent, cold water and distilled white vinegar to form a paste. The paste should be the consistency of toothpaste.
  4. Spread the paste on both sides of the stain (remember to check a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure the paste will not damage or discolor the material), and let it sit for approximately 5 minutes.
  5. With a toothbrush or small nailbrush, rub the pasted stain in a circular motion (both sides).
  6. Rinse the area with cold water, both front and back.
  7. Pour a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly onto the area of stain and rub it in with your thumb and forefinger.
  8. Place the fabric in the wash and launder as usual as per the directions on the fabric tag, using the liquid detergent with color-safe bleach. (If the stain is on durable whites that are bleach-safe, you may use regular detergent with bleach added to the wash water, instead of the detergent with color-safe bleach.)
  9. If the stain remains after washing, repeat steps 1 through 7. DO NOT dry the fabric in the dryer if any stain remains as the heat from the dryer will set the stain, making it nearly impossible to get out.