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How to Make Solvent to Clean a Ketchup Stain

Ketchup's bright, red color means that a stain caused by it can stand out on your upholstery or carpet. Clean any food stain as soon as possible to prevent the staining material from settling further into the area, making it tougher to remove. You can purchase cleaning solvents specifically for the type of material you are cleaning, or you can make your own at home using products you may already have. Always test the cleaning solution on a small area first to determine if it will change the color or texture of the material.

Things You'll Need

  • Liquid dish soap
  • Ammonia
  • White vinegar
  • Cloths
  • Sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Soak a sponge in cold water and wring it out. Sponge the stain to remove as much ketchup as you can.

    • 2

      Mix ¼ tsp. of liquid dish soap with 1 cup of lukewarm water.

    • 3

      Blot the solution over the stain until it's gone. Rinse the area with clear water from the sponge. Don't saturate the carpet or upholstery.

    • 4

      Continue applying soap solution over the stain and rinsing with water until the stain is gone. If the stain is still visible, continue to the next step.

    • 5

      Mix 1 tbsp. of ammonia with ½ cup of warm water. Blot the solution over the stain until it's gone. Don't saturate upholstery. Rinse the area with water from a sponge and let it dry completely. If the stain is still visible, continue to the next step.

    • 6

      Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 2 cups of warm water. Blot the solution over the ketchup stain until it's gone. Rinse the area with a damp sponge.