Chocolate: the perfect treat, but also the perfect storm of potential stains on your bright white shirt or brand new dress. Chocolate is a combination of fat, sugar, tannins (brown dye), and protein (milk), making it more difficult to remove.

Add yet another challenge into the mix when you've spilled hot chocolate on clothing, carpet or upholstery. The heat from the hot chocolate will cause it to penetrate deeper into the material.

Fabric & Clothes

When in doubt about a surface, always spot test first.

1. Remove excess chocolate. If necessary, use a butter knife or spoon to remove any leftover pieces or spots from the surface. If the chocolate has already dried and hardened into the fabric, be careful not to damage the fibers when peeling it away.
2. Rinse with cold water. If cleaning a piece of fabric, rinse the back of the stained area with cold water. This allows the stain to travel back through the least amount of fabric instead of seeping further into it. Avoid hot water, as this can actually help set the protein-based part of the stain.
3. Spray full strength Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner onto the stained area. Allow the cleaner to soak into the stain for a few minutes. This will allow it to break down the chocolate stain.
4. Agitate the stain. Gently blot the stained area with a clean, damp towel or absorbent cloth from the outer edges toward the center of the stain.
5. Rinse with clean water. Run the fabric under clean water to wash away any product or stain remnants.
6. Wash fabrics as usual. Be sure to wash in cold water. Hang or air-dry the item if possible.
7. Check the stain. Only tumble dry or iron if the stain is entirely gone.
8. Repeat if necessary.

Upholstery & Carpet

When in doubt about a surface, always spot test first.

1. Remove excess chocolate. If necessary, use a butter knife or spoon to remove any leftover pieces or spots from the surface. If the chocolate has already dried and hardened into the carpet or fabric, be careful not to damage the fibers when peeling it away.
2. Rinse with cold water. Gently blot with a towel that you've dampened with cold water. Avoid hot water, as this can actually help set the protein-based part of the stain.
3. Spray full strength Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner onto the stained area. Allow the cleaner to soak into the stain for a few minutes. This will allow it to break down the chocolate stain.
4. Agitate the stain. Gently blot the stained area with a clean, damp towel or absorbent cloth from the outer edges toward the center of the stain.
5. Rinse with clean water. Gently rub the fabric or carpet with a different clean, damp cloth.
6. Allow to air dry. Prevent anyone from using or walking on the treated area until it's completely dry.
7. Repeat if necessary.