Dealing with Breastmilk Stains: Step-by-Step Stain Removal

Breastmilk stains – whether from a leaky letdown, a spit-up explosion, or an overflowing bottle – are an inevitable part of life with a baby. While they may seem harmless at first, these stains can leave behind a yellowish tinge and a sour smell if not treated properly. The good news? With the right approach, you can keep your baby’s clothes (and yours!) fresh and stain-free. Here’s how.  

Step 1: Act Fast (If You Can!)  
The sooner you tackle a breastmilk stain, the easier it is to remove. If possible, rinse the stain immediately under cold water to stop it from setting. But let’s be real – sometimes that’s just not an option when you’ve got a baby in your arms!  

Step 2: Pre-Treat the Stain  
For dried or stubborn stains, pre-treating is key. Here are a few effective options:  

Bicarb Soda & Water:
Make a paste and gently rub it into the stain. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before rinsing.  

Dishwashing Liquid & Warm Water:
This works particularly well for breaking down the fatty components of breastmilk. Dab a few drops onto the stain, rub gently, and rinse.  

White Vinegar Solution:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, soak the stain for 30 minutes, then wash as usual. This helps remove both stains and odours.  

Step 3: Wash with the Right Detergent  
Use a good-quality laundry detergent that’s gentle on baby clothes but tough on stains. For extra stain-fighting power, add a scoop of oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach) to your wash. If possible, wash in warm water – but always check the care label first.  

Step 4: Sun-Dry for Natural Whitening  
Sunlight is a miracle worker when it comes to removing breastmilk stains! Hang clothes outside in direct sunlight, and you’ll notice stains start to fade naturally. The sun also helps eliminate any lingering smells.  

Step 5: Check Before You Dry  
Before tossing clothes in the dryer, check that the stain is completely gone. Heat can set stains permanently, making them much harder to remove later. If the stain is still visible, repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps.  

Bonus Tip: Enzyme Soak for Stubborn Stains  
For extra-tough stains, try soaking the clothes in an enzyme-based stain remover (such as one designed for baby clothes or cloth nappies). These break down proteins in the milk, making stain removal easier.  

By following these steps, you can keep your little one’s wardrobe fresh, clean, and stain-free – ready to be loved again and again!