Well now that tomatoes are allowed to be eaten again I thought I might remind people of a simple way to get tomatoes stains out of your clothes, just in case you decide to go hog wild with the recently sanctioned food again.
# Remove as much of the excess tomato sauce as possible from the fabric. I use a spoon or the back of a butter knife. This won't damage your clothing, but will allow all the excess to come off.
# Run cold water through the back of the stain as quickly as possible. This will force the stain back out through the fabric. Don't run it through the front of the tomato stain, which will only force it more deeply into your clothing.
# Rub a liquid detergent into the stained portion of the fabric. Work it into the fabric gently in a circular motion beginning on the outside of the stained area, and working in.
# If the garment is white, or you have tested it for colorfastness, apply a mild bleaching agent. Possible agents include hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar applied with a sponge. You can also use lemon juice on white fabrics. Rinse well.
# Repeat with detergent followed by mild bleaching agent until the stain no longer appears.Hold the stain up to the light to make sure it is fully gone.
# Apply a stain remover stick, gel, or spray. Allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes while you wait.
# Wash normally with detergent. Before drying, double-check the stain. Stains that are dried will often be permanent.
# If it remains, rub detergent into the tomato stain. Next, soak in warm water for 30 minutes. Rinse well.
# If the tomato stain is still stubborn, apply stain remover stick, gel, or spray and launder according to directions. I usually do this step even if I can't see any lingering stain, just to be sure I get all traces of tomato stain out.
