To remove red coloring from water and stains on a tablecloth caused by red Kool-Aid, follow these steps:
Act quickly: The sooner you attend to the stain, the better the chances of successful removal.
Blot the stain: Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to gently blot the excess liquid without spreading the stain further. Avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Rinse with cold water: Hold the stained area under cold running water, which helps to flush out as much of the stain as possible.
Pre-treat the stain: There are a few methods you can try to pre-treat the stain:
a. Vinegar and water solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and cold water, and soak the stained area in the solution for a few minutes before rinsing again with cold water.
b. Lemon juice and salt: Sprinkle some salt on the stained area and then squeeze fresh lemon juice over it. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water.
c. Dish soap: Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Launder the tablecloth: Check the care instructions on the tablecloth's label to make sure you use the appropriate washing settings. Wash the tablecloth separately from other items to prevent color transfer.
Check before drying: After washing, check to see if the stain is completely gone. If it's still visible, do not dry the tablecloth, as heat can set the stain. Instead, repeat the pre-treatment and washing process until the stain is gone.
Use a stain remover: If the stain persists, you can try using a commercial stain remover according to the product's instructions.
Bleach (if suitable): If the tablecloth is white or labeled as color-safe for bleaching, you can use oxygen bleach or chlorine bleach following the manufacturer's guidelines. Always perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area before using bleach.
Sunlight: If the stain is proving difficult to remove, hanging the damp tablecloth in direct sunlight can help fade the stain over time. Sunlight has natural bleaching properties.
Remember that not all fabrics and dyes are the same, so always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the tablecloth before applying it to the stain directly. Additionally, some stains might be particularly stubborn, and professional dry cleaning may be necessary in those cases.