How To Get Hot Chocolate Out of A Couch
Hot chocolate, yum! But not so much when it gets spilled on your couch. Getting hot chocolate out of a couch can be tricky, but with the right steps, you could be able to get it all out.
First things first, don’t panic! The sooner the mess is taken care of, the better chance that the stain won’t set in permanently.
No matter your couch’s material, getting rid of that pesky chocolate mess requires a few key steps; once completed, you’ll hopefully be able to enjoy a spotless and hot chocolate-free sofa again.
We always recommend that you get the team here at Brisbane Upholstery Cleaning to handle the upholstery cleaning process for you. We have expert knowledge, premium cleaning solutions, and commercial-grade equipment on hand and ready to go.
However, we know how tempting it can be to have a go at cleaning upholstery yourself, so here are some tips and tricks to follow at your own risk:
How To Get Hot Chocolate Out of A Couch: Step-By-Step Guide
As always, check the upholstery care label on your furniture to see what cleaning methods are recommended. You may have a piece or furniture that states dry clean only and to use no moisture or steam so cleaning it yourself would be practically impossible.
Step 1: Gently Blot
To eliminate any potential sour smell, absorb as much of the hot chocolate with a white towel or paper towels before beginning your cleaning. Dairy products in the cocoa can leave an unpleasant odour if not completely wiped away from fabrics.
Step 2: Scrape
Using an old spoon or dull knife, carefully scrape any dried-on chocolate residue off the couch fabric. Make sure to be gentle so that you don’t damage your furniture.
Step 3: Solidify The Chocolate Stain
For any remaining chocolate residue that is soft or partially melted, try placing a few ice cubes in a zippered plastic bag and setting it over the chocolate for 10 minutes. After the chocolate has hardened, remove the ice bag and scrape again.
Step 4: Clean
Mix 2 cups of cold water and 2 tbsp of mild liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area lightly and wipe it with a cloth. Repeat until the dark chocolate stain has been removed.
Step 5: Rinse
Once you’ve finished applying the soapy solution, dampen a sponge with luke-warm water and detergent and gently wipe the spot. Rinse away the solution with a clean cloth and cold water.
Step 6: Dry
Now that the stain is gone use a dry cloth to gently pat the fabric.
What About Old Chocolate Stains?
If the stain has been around for a while, you may need to use an upholstery cleaner (check your couch’s fabric label first). Make sure to test on a hidden area before using.
If you want to take the DIY route:
- Use white vinegar.
- Dab some vinegar on the chocolate-stained area using a cloth.
- Use a little water and baking soda to mildly scrub away the stain.
- Then, pat it dry with a clean cloth
You can also use a weak hydrogen peroxide mixed with cool water as a last resort. But before you do so, check your couch’s fabric label for compatibility with the solution.
Also, note that hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching agent, so always do a patch test in an inconspicuous area before applying it.
To remove hot chocolate stains with hydrogen peroxide, follow these steps:
- Mix a solution of one part hydrogen peroxide and two parts cold water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the affected area lightly and wipe it with a cloth.
- Once the stain has been removed, use a damp sponge to remove any remaining residue from the fabric.
- Finally, use a dry cloth to pat the fabric and remove any remaining moisture.
Basic Rules Of Hot Chocolate Stain Removal
The sooner, the better: As soon as you spot hot chocolate on your couch fabric, take action to get it out before it sets in and becomes permanent.
Blot don’t scrub: Scrubbing can cause damage to fabrics. Instead, use a white cloth or paper towel to first blot excess liquid.
Be gentle: If you are using any kind of cleaner on your couch, make sure to be gentle so that you don’t damage the fabric.
Air-dry: Give your couch ample time to dry before sitting on it or applying any new treatments.
Following these steps could help you get hot chocolate stains out of a couch and avert a catastrophe.