How to remove coffee or tea stains

Tannin stain, often with milk fat. Treat the tannin first, then any greasy residue.

Method

1. 1

   Flush cool

   Rinse from the reverse with cool water as soon as possible.

2. 2

   Detergent

   Work a little liquid detergent in and leave 10 minutes.

3. 3

   Oxygen boost

   On white and colour-fast items, follow with an oxygen-based remover.

4. 4

   Wash and check

   Wash per the care label, then check before drying — heat sets any remainder.

What makes it worse

• Do not dry before the mark has cleared
• Do not use hot water on milky coffee (it sets protein)

Last reviewed 2026-09-01. Your item's care label always takes priority.