How to Get Mustard Out of Clothes Using Household Staples

Summer and barbecues go hand in hand, and nothing says cookout season quite like the tangy flavor of yellow mustard on a grilled hot dog. But when a little mishap sends a blob of condiment onto the front of your favorite shirt, it can leave the day on a sour note. No need to fret: How to get mustard out of clothes successfully comes down to the correct method, some household essentials, and a little urgency.

To find the best solution, we consulted a fabric care scientist for tips on how to get mustard out of clothes. Here's how you can rescue your clothes and keep them looking crisp and clean, with no unwanted souvenirs of your summer fun.

To fully remove mustard stains from clothes, P&G fabric care scientist Kim Romine emphasizes the importance of acting quickly. “The sooner you treat the stain, the better,” Romine explains.

Turmeric, a common ingredient in yellow mustard, acts like a dye and can leave a stubborn yellow shadow if not treated correctly. Acting fast gives you the best chance at removing the stain completely since mustard can penetrate fibers and begin to oxidize in just a short amount of time. Once it's set, it often requires multiple treatment cycles.

Materials Needed:

• Butter knife, putty knife, or spoon
• Cold water
• Powder laundry detergent
• White vinegar (optional)
• Baking soda (optional)

Instructions:

1. Lift Off the Excess: "Gently scrape off any excess mustard with a spoon or dull knife," Romine recommends, "being careful not to spread it further." Use a scooping motion and lift straight up to avoid smearing the mustard and creating a larger stain.
2. Flush the Stain with Water: Rinse the stained area under running water to flush out as much stain as possible. Since the mustard stain is setting in from the front, rinse from the back to boost efficacy.
3. Apply a Targeted Detergent Treatment: “Mustard is a pH-sensitive stain, and powder detergent is the most effective choice for removal,” shares Romine. Create a paste by mixing a small amount of powdered detergent containing oxygen bleach with water, and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.
4. Wash with Care and the Right Temperature: Always check the care label for washing instructions and follow the suggested water temperatures and cycle recommendations. Since mustard can be a tough stain, Romine suggests washing the garment in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric. After the wash cycle is complete, ensure that the stain is totally gone before drying.
5. For Stubborn Stains, Try a DIY Solution: To treat particularly stubborn stains, create a baking soda and vinegar paste. Mix baking soda and water until a paste forms. Apply the stain to the still-damp garment and allow to sit for 1–3 minutes. Then, slowly drizzle white vinegar on top, allowing the natural chemical reaction to lift the stain. Continue until the fizzing stops, then rinse before reapplying the powder detergent paste and re-washing.
6. Double-Check Before You Dry: Before drying, inspect the garment to be sure that the stain has been removed. The dryer's heat can set the stain, making further removal difficult. If there’s any trace of the stain left, repeat the treatment steps above. Once the stain has been removed, dry per the garment's care instructions.