How to Remove Soy Sauce Stains

Soy sauce is a staple in many kitchens, but it can be a real pain when it stains clothes, carpet, or upholstery. It is made from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, yeast and water (Source: Diez-Simon et al, 2020). The mixture is then aged for several months to develop its distinct flavor and dark color.

Soy sauce’s dark color can leave noticeable stains when it spills on fabric. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to remove soy sauce stains from clothing, carpets and upholstery.

How to Get Soy Sauce Out of Clothes

Removing stains from clothes can be frustrating. Understanding the type of stain and the fabric is key to finding the most effective solution. When it comes to removing soy sauce stains from clothes, here is what you need to know.

NOTE: Before using any of these methods, it’s important to check the care label and test the stain removal solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. If you are removing soy sauce stains from leather, be sure to use specialized leather cleaners and learn more about how to clean a leather jacket. 

Tools and Materials:

• Clean, white cloths or paper towels
• Cold water
• Liquid laundry detergent

Instructions:

Estimated time to complete: 10 to 15 minutes

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Using a white cloth or paper towel, blot the fresh stain to remove as much of the soy sauce as possible. Make sure to work from the outside in, so you don’t spread the stain.

Step 2: Soak the Stain

Run cold water over the stain and / or let it soak for 5-10 minutes. This will help to loosen the soy sauce stain  and make it easier to remove in the next step.

Step 3: Apply Detergent

Apply a drop or two of detergent to the stain and rub it in gently. Let the detergent sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out with cold water. 

Step 4: Wash the Garment

Once the stain has lifted, wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest setting recommended on the care label, using non-toxic laundry detergent, if necessary.

How to Get Soy Sauce Out of Carpet

Removing soy sauce stains from carpet can be a bit more challenging than removing them from clothes because carpet isn’t so easily rinsed under cold water! But it’s still possible. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tools and Materials:

• Clean white cloths or paper towels
• Soda water
• Liquid laundry detergent

Instructions:

Estimated time to complete: 30 minutes

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Using a white cloth or paper towel, blot the stain to remove as much of the soy sauce as possible. Make sure to work from the outside in, so you don’t spread the stain.

Step 2: Apply the Soda Water

Pour soda water over the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will help to loosen the stain and make it easier to remove.

Step 3: Apply Detergent 

Mix a small amount of detergent with water and apply it to the stain. Rub it in gently and let it sit for a few minutes.

Step 4: Blot Again

Using a white cloth or a paper towel, dry the area by blotting with another clean white cloth or paper towel. If the stain persists, you may need to repeat these steps until it all comes out. 

How to Get Soy Sauce Out of a Couch or Upholstery

If you’ve accidentally spilled soy sauce on your couch or upholstery, don’t worry! With a few simple tools and a little elbow grease, you can get those stubborn stains out in no time.

Tools and Materials:

• Clean white cloths or paper towels
• Warm water
• Liquid dish soap

Instructions:

Estimated time to complete: 30 minutes

Step 1: Blot the Stain

The first step to removing any stain is to blot up as much of the spill as possible. Take a clean, white cloth and gently press it against the stain. Do not rub the stain as this will only spread it further. Repeat this step until you have removed as much of the soy sauce as you can.

Step 2: Clean the Area with Dish Soap

In a bowl, mix a small amount of warm water with a drop of liquid dish soap. Dampen a clean cloth with the soap solution and gently blot the stain. This will help to break down the oils in the soy sauce, making it easier to remove. 

Step 3: Rinse with Water

Rinse the affected area with clean, warm water. Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any soap residue. Repeat this step until the fabric comes up clean.

If Your Stain Persists…

If the stain is still present, it may be time to bring in the big guns. You can try applying a color-safe bleach product, or you may need to invest in specialized stain-removal tools. Here is a list of the best upholstery steam cleaners that we recommend.

If all else fails, consider “outsaucing it” (get it??) and taking your item of clothing to a professional cleaner, or calling in the professional cleaners if it’s for your couch or carpet.

Good luck and soya later!