Cologne And Black Clothes: Staining Or Safe?

It's a common worry that cologne will stain clothes, especially expensive ones. The good news is that using a normal amount of cologne will not harm your clothing. However, some fabrics can be damaged by excessive amounts of cologne, and it's important to know how to remove cologne stains when they do occur.

Cologne often contains alcohol, oils, and dyes, which can interact with the fibres of your clothes and leave behind a stain. These stains may not be visible right away but can darken over time. To avoid staining, it's best to apply cologne directly to the skin, ensuring it's dry before putting on clothes.

If a stain does occur, there are several methods to remove it. One approach is to pretreat the stain with a detergent or a mixture of water, detergent, and vinegar, and then launder the item. Another option is to use a commercial fabric spot cleaner, followed by a solution of glycerin, detergent, and water if the stain persists. It's always important to check the care label and test any cleaning methods on a small area first to avoid damaging your clothes.

How to remove cologne stains from black clothes

Even clear perfumes can stain fabric, as many fragrances are alcohol-based. If your favourite black shirt has a cologne stain, don't worry. Here are some methods to help you remove it.

Step 1: Pretreat Fresh Stains with Cold Water

If the cologne stain is fresh, try lifting it with cold water. Dip a clean cloth in water and gently dab the stain, working from the centre outwards. You can also add a bit of laundry detergent or vinegar to the stain. If this step works, launder the garment as usual.

Step 2: Make a Detergent-Based Cleaning Solution for Set-In Stains

If the stain is set-in, you'll need a stronger stain removal method. Mix a solution of 1 quart of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of gentle detergent (laundry detergent or dish soap), and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Soak the garment in the solution for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Step 3: Apply Rubbing Alcohol

If the stain remains, sponge on some rubbing alcohol. Rinse the garment thoroughly, then launder.

Step 4: Treat with Water and Baking Soda

Another option for stubborn stains is to treat them with a mixture of water and baking soda. Mix 1 part water with 1 part baking soda and allow the fabric to soak for 10-15 minutes. Then, launder as usual.

Step 5: Launder and Air Dry

After pre-treating the stain, wash your clothes according to the instructions on the care label. If it’s safe for the fabric, add some chlorine bleach to aid in stain removal. Allow your clothes to air dry unless you’re certain the stain is gone. Heat can set stains and make them permanent, so avoid using the dryer.

Step 6: Repeat if Necessary

If the stain remains after washing, apply some laundry detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes before washing again.

What to do if cologne stains are still visible on black clothes

If the cologne stain is still visible on your black clothes, try the following methods:

Method 1:

• Sponge or soak the stain in cool water.
• Apply detergent to the stain.
• Launder the garment.

Method 2:

• Soak the garment in a solution of 1 quart of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of detergent, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar for 15 minutes.
• Rinse the garment with water.
• If the stain remains, sponge it with rubbing alcohol, rinse thoroughly, and launder.
• If safe for the fabric, add chlorine bleach to the laundry.

Method 3:

• Make a solution of 1 part glycerin, 1 part white dishwashing detergent, and 8 parts water.
• Apply this solution sparingly to the stain.
• Dampen an absorbent pad with the solution and place it over the stain.
• Apply pressure to the pad from time to time, checking to see if the stain is being lifted.
• Once the stain is removed, sponge with clear water, blot thoroughly, and allow to dry.

Method 4:

• If the stain remains, use a general household cleaner, such as 409 or Fantastic.
• Agitate the stain using a folded absorbent cloth or an old toothbrush.
• Blot thoroughly to remove the stain.
• Sponge with a mild detergent and water solution, blot, and rinse with clear water.
• Blot thoroughly and allow to dry.

Method 5:

• If the stain persists, sponge it with rubbing alcohol.
• Cover the stain with an absorbent pad dampened with alcohol and leave it in place until the stain is removed.
• Keep the pad moist with alcohol.
• Once the stain is gone, flush the garment with water and allow it to dry.

How to prevent cologne stains on black clothes

Although cologne is less likely to stain black clothes than white or light-coloured fabrics, it's still possible for stains to occur. Here are some tips to help prevent cologne stains on black clothes:

• Always apply cologne directly to your skin, rather than spraying it onto your clothes. This will help prevent the oils in the cologne from soaking into the fabric and causing stains.
• If you're already dressed, hold the cologne bottle about 5 inches (12 cm) away from your body when spraying. This will ensure that the fragrance mist is more spread out and less concentrated on one spot, reducing the risk of stains.
• Test new colognes on a small area of the black fabric before applying it more liberally. This will allow you to determine if the cologne is likely to stain the fabric.
• Allow the cologne to dry completely before getting dressed. This will reduce the risk of transferring the cologne onto your clothes and potentially staining them.
• Be mindful of the amount of cologne you're applying. Using excessive amounts may increase the risk of staining.
• Choose colognes that are less likely to stain. Some fragrances may be more prone to staining due to their ingredients, such as alcohol or oils. Opting for fragrances with fewer staining ingredients can reduce the risk of stains.
• Store your cologne properly. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the cologne to degrade and increase the risk of staining.
• Clean your clothes regularly. Wash your black clothes according to the care instructions, using mild detergents and avoiding harsh chemicals. This will help remove any built-up oils or residue from the cologne, reducing the risk of stains over time.
• Be cautious when applying cologne near fragile fabrics. Some fabrics, such as silk or wool, may be more susceptible to staining or damage from cologne. It's best to avoid applying cologne directly onto these fabrics or to test on a small area first.
• Consider alternative application methods. Instead of spraying, try dabbing or rolling on your cologne to achieve a more precise application and reduce the risk of over-application.

How to get rid of cologne scent on black clothes

While cologne does not seem to cause stains on black clothes, its scent can linger on the fabric. Here are some methods to get rid of cologne scent on black clothes:

Vinegar

Add 240ml of white vinegar to your wash cycle instead of laundry detergent to absorb unpleasant odours. It is an effective natural deodoriser. Use either hot or cold water as both work well when washing with vinegar. It may take several washes for the smell to disappear.

Castile Soap

Wash your clothes by hand using Castile soap. Add 4-5 drops of the soap to a bucket of water. Wash your clothes with warm water and let them soak in the bucket for about an hour. After, swish them around and wash again. Leave the clothes outside to dry in the sun for at least 24 hours to ensure complete dryness.

Baking Soda

Soak your clothes in a sink or washing machine filled with warm water and one cup of baking soda before washing. Leave the clothes to soak overnight or for a few days. Repeat the airing, soaking, washing and drying cycle several times if necessary. After soaking, wash the clothes as usual, following the care label guidelines.

Lemon Juice and Water

Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and apply it to your clothing. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the areas and hang your garment to dry. Check the smell and if the cologne scent is gone, rinse out the lemon juice. Avoid this method if your clothing is brightly coloured as lemon juice may lighten the overall colour of your garment.

Vodka

Spray diluted vodka onto your clothing to remove the overpowering odour. Use a bottle of inexpensive, high-proof vodka. Pour the vodka into a spray bottle so it is about two-thirds of the way full and fill the rest with water. Spray the mixture liberally over any smelly spots. Let the vodka sit on your garment for 5-10 minutes, then rinse it with cool water.

Best techniques to remove cologne stains from black clothes

Perfumes and colognes can stain clothes, especially those that contain alcohol, oils, and dyes. If you have got cologne on your favourite black shirt, don't worry. Here are some techniques to remove those stains.

I. For washable fabrics:

• Dab with cold water: If the stain is fresh, dip a clean cloth in cold water and gently dab the stain, working from the centre outwards. You can also add a bit of laundry detergent or vinegar.
• Launder as usual: If the stain has been lifted, wash the garment as you normally would.
• Use a detergent-based solution for set-in stains: If the stain is set-in, make a solution of 1 quart of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of gentle detergent (laundry or dish soap), and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Soak the garment for 15 minutes, then rinse.
• Try rubbing alcohol: If the stain remains, sponge the area with rubbing alcohol, rinse, and launder.
• Apply a baking soda mixture: Alternatively, mix 1 part water with 1 part baking soda and let the fabric soak for 10-15 minutes. Then, launder as usual.
• Add chlorine bleach: If the fabric allows, add chlorine bleach to the laundry to boost the stain removal.

II. For specialty fabrics:

• Silk or triacetate: Flush the fabric with cold water, then add a few drops of glycerin to the stain, covering it completely. Rinse the fabric and gently wipe the stain with your finger.
• Leather or suede: Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a squirt of mild liquid soap. Blot excess perfume with a paper towel, then apply the suds to the stain with a sponge. Wipe the soap away with a dry paper towel and check if the stain is gone. If not, rub with a soft, dry cloth.

III. General tips:

• Check the care label: Always read the garment's care label before attempting any stain removal method.
• Ventilation: When using commercial or toxic cleaning solutions, ensure proper ventilation.
• No heat: Avoid using the dryer as heat can set stains and make them permanent. Instead, air-dry your clothes.
• Test on an inconspicuous area: Always test each cleaning agent on a small area first to ensure it doesn't damage the fabric or affect the colour.
• Avoid overwetting: When using solvent-based cleaners on upholstery, be careful not to overwet the fabric as it can damage the backing and padding.

By following these techniques, you can effectively remove cologne stains from your black clothes and give them a new life!

Frequently asked questions