FOR many of us, nothing is more comforting than a warming sip of coffee in the morning.
But whether you’re enjoying a cosy brew in bed, a to-go cup during your morning commute or a frothy treat tucked up on the sofa, accidental spills can happen.
And while we may love the taste of coffee, the stains certainly outstay their welcome.
It's one of the most stubborn stains to remove because it contains tannins – natural compounds that give coffee its colour and flavour.
These tannins bond with fibers, making the stain harder to remove.
So what should you do when a coffee stain strikes?
Speaking on behalf of coffee machine retailer,Coffee Friend, cleaning expert Elizabeth Wickes reveals the key is to act fast and avoid rubbing.
She also explains that while you can splash the cash on pricey stain removers, some of the most effective treatments are products you probably already own – including a 99p bathroom stape.
Elizabeth says the acting quickly can make all the difference when it comes to a stain on your clothes, and using absorbent materials.
And it can just as easily work on cushion covers and fabric sofas.
She advises: “Gently blot the spill with a clean cloth to lift the liquid without spreading the stain.
“Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible, minimising the chance of the stain setting.”
Then follow the cleaning pro's simple steps…
Step one: Cold Water
Run cold water through the front and back of the stain.
Step two: Liquid Detergent or Mild Washing Up Liquid
Apply liquid detergent or mild washing-up liquid to the stain and rub gently. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.
Step three: Vinegar Solution
Mix white vinegar with water. Scrub the stain with a towel dipped in the solution, then rinse.
Step four: Toothpaste
Use white toothpaste to gently scrub the stain. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Step five: Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda and water into a paste. Apply, scrub, rinse, and dab dry.
Step six: Wash and Air Dry
Wash the garment as soon as possible. Avoid machine drying until the stain is fully gone.
And when it comes to carpets, Elizabeth says: “First things first, you need to understand the coffee stain and the material of your carpet.
“Understanding these factors can help you choose the best cleaning method for your carpet type and improve stain removal success.
“Wool carpets require gentle, non-alkaline cleaners to avoid damage, but the wool absorbs liquids more deeply, making stains harder to treat.”;
“Synthetic carpets can handle more robust cleaning solutions.
“Blended fibre carpets may need a combination of methods tailored to the different fibres.”;
