How to Remove Tomato Sauce from Clothes
This stain sets quickly. Start treatment as soon as possible for the best results. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to remove completely.
Removal Method
Scrape off excess sauce with a spoon. Do not wipe (spreads the stain).
Rinse the back of the stain under cold running water to flush out the sauce.
Apply liquid dish soap directly to the stain. Let sit 10 minutes. The surfactants in dish soap break down the oils in tomato sauce.
Apply white vinegar to the stain and blot. The acid helps break down the red pigment (lycopene).
Wash in the warmest water safe for the fabric. Check before drying.
For dried tomato stains: soak in a mix of 1 tbsp white vinegar + 1/2 tsp liquid detergent + 1 quart cool water for 30 minutes.
- Do not use hot water initially (sets the stain)
- Do not put in dryer until fully removed
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) applied directly for 10 minutes (test on colored fabrics first as it may bleach).
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026