Pork Stains and Bacon Grease on Washable Clothes
If the cut of pork is raw and is dropped on fabric, lift away any solids and then treat the spot like a bloodstain. As soon as possible, flush the stained area by holding the washable fabric with the wrong side directly under a running cold water faucet to force out the stain. Never use hot water for the first treatment because the higher temperature can cook the proteins in the blood, adhering them more tightly to the fabric fibers and making the stain more difficult to remove. After flushing, launder as recommended on the care label. Pork that is cooked and all forms of bacon usually produce an oily stain on the fabric from the rendered fat. Even lean pork will still produce an oily stain. When bits of cooked pork and bacon fall on fabric, use a dull knife or spoon to lift away any solids. Next, blot the stain with a plain white paper towel or napkin to absorb as much oil as possible. If you have a bit of cornstarch or talcum powder handy, sprinkle it on the stain to help absorb the oil. Even a slice of white bread can absorb the oil until you can wash the fabric. When it is time to wash the garment, oily stains require the use of a solvent-based stain remover. If you don’t have one, apply a bit of heavy-duty liquid detergent like Tide or Persil, These brands contain the necessary enzymes to break apart the oil molecules. Apply the stain remover or detergent directly onto the stained area and work it in by gently rubbing the fabric together with your fingers or use an old soft toothbrush. Let the stain remover work on the stain for at least 10 to 15 minutes before tossing in the washer. Wash as recommended on the care label using the hottest water suggested. Of course, many stains caused by pork are combination stains due to the recipe, method of cooking, and added ingredients. You may need to follow additional steps to remove gravy, BBQ sauce, or cheese.
Stains on Dry Clean Only Clothes
If the garment is designated as dry clean only, remove any solids by lifting them away from the fabric with a dull knife or spoon edge. Blot the stain with a white cloth or paper towel. Sprinkle with some talcum powder or cornstarch and as soon as possible, head to the dry cleaner and point out and identify the stain. If the stain is small and you decide to use a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag.
When the Bacon Hits the Carpet or Cushion
If the pork hits the carpet, remove any solids as quickly as possible. Immediately blot the stain with a plain white cloth or paper towel to absorb either the oil or blood. For oily stains from cooked pork, sprinkle the stain with cornstarch, baking soda or talcum powder to absorb the oil. Use a soft-bristle brush to work the powder into the carpet. Allow the absorbing powder to sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes and then vacuum away. Following the product instructions, blot the stain with a dry cleaning solvent. Use a clean white cloth or paper towel. Keep blotting until no more oil is transferred from the carpet to the cloth. If you do not have a dry cleaning solvent or carpet cleaning product, mix one tablespoon of hand dishwashing detergent in two cups of hot water. Add one tablespoon household ammonia. Blot the stain with a sponge or soft-bristled brush dipped in the cleaning solution until the stain is removed. Absorb the cleaning solution with a dry paper towel. Next, use a sponge to “rinse” the stained area with plain water. If you leave the soapy residue in the carpet fibers it will actually attract soil. Keep blotting with a clean white cloth until no more soap remains. Allow the area to dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Vacuum to lift carpet fibers. The same cleaning tips recommended for carpet can be used to remove grease stains from upholstery. Take extra care when cleaning to not overwet the fabric. Excessive moisture in the cushions can cause problems. If the upholstery is silk or vintage, contact a professional upholstery cleaner or if you need more stain removal tips.
