Removing ketchup stains

A bottle that squeezes too hard, a chip that falls off your plate or a child who spills something on the sofa: ketchup stains appear quickly and are immediately noticeable. Ketchup is particularly troublesome because it not only stains red, but also contains sugar and acids. This can cause it to dry sticky and leave a visible ring. The colour absorbs quickly into textiles, and often leaves a red haze on floors when smeared.

Acting quickly helps to prevent discolouration. If you wait too long, ketchup will dry into a hard, sticky layer that attracts dirt and is more difficult to remove.

Fortunately, ketchup stains can usually be removed effectively with the right approach. Below are the factors to consider for each type of surface.