Whether you’re looking to elevate a dish’s taste, smell, texture, or appearance, kimchi has got you covered. It adds contrast and complexity to any dish. Unfortunately, the pungent stench and vibrant red color are also the reasons why people want to get rid of kimchi stains as soon as possible! The following article will talk about how to remove kimchi stains from different materials such as clothing, plastic, or kitchen utensils. We’ll also give you tips for preventing kimchi stains in the first place.
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What do kimchi stains look like?
Kimchi stains are typically red due to the pigments of the Korean red pepper flakes and can pack a pungent smell. However, it depends on the kimchi itself and what gets stained. Kimchi can be very wet and acidic, which makes it more susceptible to staining fabric.
How to remove kimchi stain from plastic?
The kimchi paste has an intense flavor that can be transferred to other objects it comes into contact with. Because of this, kimchi stains on Tupperware or plastic containers are tough to remove. Therefore, we always prefer fermenting kimchi in glass jars like these, as they are much easier to clean due to their smooth surface. Luckily though, there are many ways you can clean your containers from kimchi stains.
- You should start by soaking the stained object in warm water mixed with some dish wash liquid for at least ten minutes before scrubbing gently with soap and hot water. If you have access to vinegar or lemon juice, try adding these as well.
- If you are having trouble removing kimchi stains from your plastic containers, try using baking soda instead of soap. It will also help keep the smell of kimchi out of your Tupperware.
How to remove kimchi stain from clothes
Typically, the combination of detergent and water can do the magic on removing common stains like mud and dirt, but not Kimchi stains. Kimchi stains on clothes can be hard to clean, but it is possible to get rid of them.
Onion
Onion is not only adding flavor to your food but also helps remove red stains on clothes. It is cheap, easy to find, and won’t damage your shirt as it is a natural ingredient.
- Cut your fresh and juicy onion in half and rub the cut end on the stain.
- In addition, you can also grate it into a bowl, then rub the stain with the grated onion and blot it with as much onion juice as you can.
- Let the clothes sit for 8-10 minutes.
- Once the stain is gone, wash it as usual.
Dawn dishwashing liquid
Dawn dishwashing liquid can be your best bet. It works exceptionally well on greasy stains as it is designed to break down oils.
- Apply Dawn dishwashing liquid directly on the stained area.
- Spread evenly and rub using your fingers.
- Leave for about 10 to 20 minutes until the stain is gone.
- Wash regularly.
Baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two versatile products that people use for household cleaning solutions. It works great for removing food stains, as well as brightening your white shirts.
- Make a paste of baking soda and vinegar.
- Rub the paste on the stain by using a brush.
- Let it sit for about an hour.
- Rinse with water and wash normally.
OxiClean
OxiClean is a multipurpose cleaning agent formulated to remove stain problems.
- Blot the stains with a clean towel.
- Mix 1 tbs of Oxiclean and a cup of water.
- Spray evenly on the stained area.
- Rinse and wash as usual.
How to get kimchi stains out of carpet
Kimchi stains are usually tough to get out, as we do not want to damage the carpet. The kimchi mixture is acidic and can erode fibers if left for too long.
- Soak kimchi stain with water.
- Mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar, ¼ cup dish soap, and 2 cups warm water in a spray bottle.
- Shake well.
- Before the kimchi mixture dries, spray it with your kimchi stain solution and repeatedly blot until the kimchi is gone.
- Repeat with warm water if kimchi stains remain.
- Allow to air dry before walking on it again.
How to get kimchi stains out of a cutting board
A kimchi stain on your cutting board is not only unsightly, but it can also pose some hygiene issues. In addition, kimchi stains are hard to get rid of once they dry, so act fast.
- Soak kimchi-stained cutting board in warm water for an hour.
- Mix dish soap and ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle.
- Shake well.
- Spray the kimchi-stained area with the solution and scrub with a kitchen brush for 30 seconds.
- Repeat if kimchi stains remain.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water and let it dry before using it for food preparation again.
Cleaning kimchi containers is crucial to food safety and hygiene
Kimchi containers can be easily overlooked during regular cleaning but cleaning them is essential for food safety and hygiene. Kimchi is known to stain everything it comes in contact with, like clothes, carpets, or countertops. If you eat kimchi regularly, then it is necessary to clean kimchi containers regularly too!
Kimchi can grow various bacteria that are safe to consume as it is fermented. However, if not cleaned and stored correctly, those bacteria can cause food poisoning during the fermentation process.
Why does kimchi stain so bad?
The primary reason why kimchi stains so bad is because it is a fermented food product. Kimchi stains result from kimchi ingredients such as gochujang (fermented chili paste), gochugaru (Korean chili powder), and brine, which can contain lactic acid.
Can kimchi stain teeth?
Due to its fermentation process, kimchi is an excellent source of probiotics that is great to help reducing gum inflammation. However, kimchi has high acidity and low pH that may stain your teeth, especially when consumed frequently without proper dental hygiene. Always rinse with water after eating kimchi.
