How to Clean Hot Tea From Upholstery

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Things You'll Need

  • Paper towels

  • Mild liquid detergent

  • Clean cloth

  • White vinegar

  • Dry towel

A cup of tea should relax you, not stress you out.
Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images

For many, drinking a hot cup of tea at the end of the day is a relaxing idea. Pair it with a good book or a favorite television show for an ideal way to unwind. Snuggled up in your favorite chair or corner of the couch, it may become all too easy to lose sight of your cup of tea, leading to an unfortunate spill. Hot tea on upholstery creates a situation that's far from relaxing. Removing this stain doesn't have to ruin your entire evening; a few minutes are all that's needed to get back to enjoying yourself.

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Step 1

Leave the area alone for a few minutes to allow the hot tea a chance to cool down.

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Step 2

Blot the area with a wad of two to three paper towels to help get rid of as much of the tea as possible.

Step 3

Stir 1 teaspoon of a mild, bleach-free, liquid laundry or dish detergent into 1 cup of warm water.

Step 4

Dip a clean cloth into the solution and blot it onto the affected area.

Step 5

Combine 1/3 cup of white vinegar with 2/3 cup of warm water.

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Step 6

Dip a clean cloth into the solution and blot it onto the area.

Step 7

Blot the area again with soapy water. Continue alternating between the two solutions until the discoloration from the tea is gone.

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Step 8

Rinse the area by blotting it with a clean cloth dampened with cool water.

Step 9

Blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb any excess moisture before allowing the area to air dry.

Tip

If the spill is on a removable cushion, place it in a cool, dry place until it's dry. Otherwise place a fan nearby to circulate air over the spill to help it dry quickly.

Warning

Avoid oversaturating the area, as this can lead to mold and mildew problems later on.

Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners and anything that contains bleach as this may damage the fabric. If you decide to use a stain removal product, check the manufacturer’s label first to ensure that it's safe to use on your upholstery.

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