How to Remove Oil, Curry and Haldi Stains from Clothes

Indian food is wonderful and merciless on clothes. Oil and turmeric stains are two of the most common problems we expect to see on kurtas, shirts and sarees.

First, do not rub

Blot with a clean tissue or cloth to lift excess oil. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into the weave and spreads it.

Oil and greasy curry

• Sprinkle talcum powder, cornflour or baking soda on the mark and leave 15 to 30 minutes to absorb the oil.
• Brush off, then apply a few drops of liquid detergent or dish soap and gently work it in.
• Wash in the warmest water the label allows.

Turmeric and haldi

Turmeric is a dye, not just a stain. Rinse in cool water, then treat with detergent. Sunlight helps fade the yellow on washable white and light cotton, so drying in indirect sun can help after washing. Do not apply soap and hot water to a fresh haldi mark on silk, because it can set the colour.

Silk, zari and wedding wear

Do not scrub or use home chemicals on a silk saree, lehenga or anything with zari. Blot, keep the garment flat, and bring it to a dry cleaner as soon as possible. Point out the stain and what caused it.

Check before you dry

Always look at the area after washing and before drying or ironing. Heat makes any remaining stain far harder to remove.

Frequently asked questions

How do you remove turmeric stains from white clothes?

Rinse in cool water, treat with detergent, wash, and dry in indirect sunlight, which helps fade remaining yellow on washable cotton.

Can oil stains be removed after they dry?

Often yes, if they have not been heat-set. Absorb with powder first, then treat with detergent and wash warm.