How to remove curry stains, expert advice from the GHI

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Curry stains are tough to tackle, but we have the kn0w-how to get the job done! Solventborne Pigment Paste

How to remove curry stains, expert advice from the GHI

Curry is one of the most popular takeaways in the UK, with some even claiming that chicken tikka masala is our national dish. But whether you opt for a korma, dhansak or a spicy vindaloo, one thing we can all agree is that curry stains are some of the trickiest to remove.

What makes curry stains so difficult to remove? The culprit is a pigment called curcumin, which is found in tumeric. It's important to act fast to try and remove this — just follow our guidance.

First, remove as much as possible using a blunt knife, then absorb as much of the stain as you can with white paper towels or a clean dry cloth.

Spot treat the stain with Stain Devils – Fat & Sauces which is specially formulated for curry stains and is also safe for use on wool and silk, follow the manufacturer’s advice for use. You may need to repeat the process if the stain is really bad.

If any further stain remains soak the garment in an oxygen-based bleaching product following manufacturers guidance for the strength of the soaking solution, then wash as normal using a biological detergent.

Alternatively, apply methylated spirits to the stained area (if in doubt, check for colour fastness in an inconspicuous area first) and leave it for a short time. The mark will turn bright red initially, but don't be alarmed, this is quite normal. Blot with white paper towels to remove as much colour as possible, moving to a clean area of the towel regularly. Repeat this process until there is no further transfer of colour to the towels.

Flush with cold water, then apply a mild solution of liquid biological detergent to the stained area. Allow this to soak in for a few minutes, then machine-wash the item as normal, at as high a temperature as the fabric allows using a biological detergent.

GHI Tip: If traces still remain placing the affected item in direct sun for a few days should fade the stain further.

Try treating with Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover following manufacturer’s instructions. But if you don’t have these to hand, try mixing one tablespoon of washing up liquid with two cups of water and one tablespoon of white vinegar.

Remove any solids with a blunt knife and blot up as much of the stain as possible with paper towels, being careful not to spread the stain. Then sponge the stain with the detergent/vinegar solution and blot regularly with paper towels to lift away any of the stain that has been loosened.

You may have to repeat this process several times but try not to over wet the carpet. If any of the stain remains it might be time to call in a professional carpet cleaner.

Check the care labels, if your upholstery can be spot cleaned, try treating it with the detergent and vinegar solution detailed above for carpet. Again, try not to over wet the area and blot regularly to remove as much stain as possible.

A slightly abrasive paste made from bicarbonate of soda and water works well on curry stains on hard surfaces.

GHI Tip: Our best advice is not to eat curry while wearing white clothes that matter or anything made of silk or wool!

How to remove mayonnaise stains

How to remove grass stains

How to remove antiperspirant deodorant stains

How to remove pigment and tanin-based stains

What not to put in the dishwasher

How to clean white trainers

How to remove lipstick stains

7 things we forget to wash and how to clean them

9 ways to get rid of smelly laundry

5 dishwasher settings to start using and 2 to stop

How to clean an air fryer

How to look after your cashmere

Good Housekeeping, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network

Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.