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How to Get Coffee Stains Out

A tannin stain that darkens as it dries; cream or milk adds a protein component.

Quick answer

Fresh Coffee on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Blot up excess — never rub.
  2. Flush the back of the stain with cool running water.
  3. Mix 1 tablespoon dishwashing liquid, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 2 cups warm water.
  4. Blot the solution onto the stain and let it sit 15–20 minutes.
  5. Sponge with cold water, then launder in the warmest water safe for the fabric.
  6. Do not dry until the stain is gone.

Don’t do this

  • Test first — vinegar and dish soap can affect some dyes.

Sources: Apartment Therapy (Martha Stewart Living method); The Spruce; Iowa State University Extension (AnswerLine)

For dried stains or other materials, use the lookup tool below.

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Coffee on specific materials

Coffee on CottonFresh & dried steps Coffee on LinenFresh & dried steps Coffee on PolyesterFresh & dried steps Coffee on NylonFresh & dried steps Coffee on SilkFresh & dried steps Coffee on WoolFresh & dried steps Coffee on DenimFresh & dried steps Coffee on LeatherFresh & dried steps Coffee on SuedeFresh & dried steps Coffee on Upholstery fabricFresh & dried steps Coffee on Carpet/rugFresh & dried steps Coffee on WoodFresh & dried steps Coffee on Stainless steelFresh & dried steps Coffee on Stone/marbleFresh & dried steps Coffee on Plastic/laminateFresh & dried steps

Frequently asked questions

Does hot coffee stain worse than iced?

Heat helps the stain bind, so a hot spill sets faster. Blot immediately and rinse with cool water.

What about coffee with cream?

Treat it as a tannin stain first; the dish-soap step also cuts the milk's protein and fat.

Will coffee come out of a white shirt?

Fresh stains usually do with the dish-soap and vinegar method. Dried coffee may need a soak before laundering.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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