How to Remove Barbecue Sauce Stains

Outdoor summer gatherings are great – until you’re faced with figuring out how to remove a barbecue sauce stain from your favorite shirt. Learn the tips for getting these stains out of a number of surfaces, as well as tips and tricks to keep them away.

Step-by-Step Guides to Removing Barbecue Stains

From clothes to carpets, discover how to tackle these tough stains.

BBQ Stains on Clothes

1. Apply a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 2 parts cool water directly on the stain.
2. Let the solution sit for up to 15 minutes, and then dab it with a moist towel or cloth.
3. Wash the item according to its care instructions, using the hottest water possible.

Pro tip: When using vinegar or hydrogen peroxide on clothes, always be sure to test it out first on a small portion to ensure colorfastness.

BBQ Stains on Washable Fabrics (Tablecloths, Hand Towels, Placemats)

1. Pretreat the stain with an enzyme-based stain remover.
2. Let the solution sit for up to 30 minutes.
3. Wash the item according to its care instructions.

BBQ Stains on Upholstery

1. Use a dull butter knife to scrape off any remaining sauce.
2. Apply a solution of 2 cups of cool water and 1 tablespoon Dish Soap to the stain using a clean cloth.
3. Blot the stain until the upholstery absorbs all the liquid.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until the stain is no longer visible.
5. Blot the area dry with a clean cloth.

Pro tip: Always use cool water to pretreat a stain on items such as a sofa or armchair, as hot or warm water can set a stain deeper into the fabric.

BBQ Stains on Carpet

1. Use a dull butter knife to scrape off any remaining sauce.
2. Apply an enzyme-based stain remover to the affected area.
3. Let the stain remover sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until the stain is no longer visible.
5. Blot the area dry with a clean cloth.

Pro tip: For carpets, never scrub a spot, as this will set the stain deep into the fibers. Instead, blot the stain firmly until it is less visible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the ins and outs of easily removing barbecue sauce stains.

What makes barbecue sauce stains so hard to remove?

Barbecue sauce is an oil stain, which means it doesn't break down when water is applied to it. Since these stains don't dissolve in water, they require soaps and detergents that will remove the stain.

How do you remove a barbecue stain if it is old or deeply set?

Older stains can be treated by applying an enzyme-based stain remover to the affected area and then letting the solution soak overnight. Then wash the item with the warmest water recommended by the fabric care instructions.

Does baking soda remove barbecue sauce stains?

Baking soda can be used to remove barbecue sauce stains from clothes when it's mixed with cornstarch using a 1:4 ratio.

Does hydrogen peroxide remove barbecue sauce stains?

Yes, just be sure to test for colorfastness first. Hydrogen peroxide can be applied directly on the stain and left to sit for up to 15 minutes. It should be then rinsed off with cold water.

What’s the best way to remove barbecue sauce stains?

The best way to effectively clean a barbecue sauce stain is to pretreat a stain using these tips:

1. Treat the stain as quickly as possible to avoid setting it deeper.
2. Avoid rinsing the stain with water first; it'll be easier to treat the stain while it's dry.
3. Never scrub or rub the stain; instead gently blot.

Stain Prevention Tips

Follow these tricks for staying stain-free at your next summer barbecue.

• Avoid the Dryer

Don't put an item in the dryer until the stain is completely removed. High temperatures will only set the stain deeper, so wait until the stain is gone to apply any heat.

• How to Handle Combination Stains

If you are dealing with different types of stains at once, handle barbecue sauce first since it is an oil state and will not dissolve in water.

• Stick to Natural Fibers

Grease and oil is naturally attracted to synthetic fibers, making it harder to remove stains from these fabrics. Opt for natural fibers, like cotton, to ensure any potential barbecue sauce stains are easier to remove.

Tackle All Summer Stains with Natural, Plant-Powered Ingredients

Whether it’s barbecue sauce or ice cream, our Natural Stain Remover is formulated to take on the trickiest stains, whether they were made 2 minutes or 2 years ago. Powered by 6 plant-powered enzymes and vegetable-based cleansers, this essential stain remover was specifically developed to remove all stains, nasty odors, and mysterious blemishes from all types of fabrics.