How to Remove Fish Sauce Stains from Clothes?

 
Pre-Treatment: Remove Excess Dried Sauce
 

• Gently scrape off any hardened or crusty dried fish sauce using a spoon or a dull knife. Take caution not to damage the fabric by scrapping too vigorously.
• If possible, turn the garment inside out and scrape from the reverse side to avoid pushing the stain deeper into the fibers.

 
Pre-Treatment: Rinse with Cold Water
 

• Hold the stained area under a cold running tap to loosen any remaining fish sauce. Cold water is essential because it prevents the stain from setting further.
• Allow the water to run through the fabric for several minutes to flush out as much of the residue as possible.

 
Creating an Effective Cleaning Solution
 

• Mix a few drops of liquid dish detergent (preferably one designed to break down grease) with cold water. Dish detergent is effective at cutting through the oily components of the fish sauce.
• For fabrics that can handle it, add a small amount of white vinegar to the solution. The vinegar helps to break down stains and neutralize odors.

 
Pre-Treatment: Application of Cleaning Solution
 

• Apply the cleaning solution directly to the stained area, ensuring full coverage.
• Gently work the solution into the stain with a soft-bristled brush or a clean white cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials that may damage the fabric.
• Let the solution sit on the stain for about 10-15 minutes to allow it to break down the dried fish sauce particles.

 
Stain Removal: Soaking
 

• If the stain is stubborn, submerge the garment in a basin filled with cold water mixed with a little extra liquid detergent.
• Allow it to soak for 30 minutes to an hour, checking periodically to ensure the stain is lifting.

 
Washing the Garment
 

• After pre-treating and soaking, launder the garment as per the care instructions on the label. Use a heavy-duty detergent if the fabric allows.
• Wash the item in cold water to protect the integrity of the stain removal process. Avoid using hot water as it can re-set any residual stain.
• If possible, run the garment through a second rinse cycle to ensure all detergent and loosened fish sauce remnants are flushed out.

 
Post-Wash Inspection and Additional Treatments
 

• Before placing the garment in the dryer, inspect the stained area. Heat from the dryer may set any remaining stain irreversibly.
• If the stain persists, gently reapply the cleaning solution and repeat the soaking and washing steps.
• For delicate fabrics or persistent stains, consider using a specialized enzyme-based stain remover. Follow the product instructions carefully.

 
Drying and Final Care
 

• Air-dry the garment rather than using a dryer to prevent any potential setting of residual stain.
• Allow sufficient time for the garment to dry completely before any further handling. In case of any remaining odor, air exposure often helps to dissipate it.