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How to Get Feces Stains Out

Protein stain — remove solids, cold-rinse, enzyme-treat.

Quick answer

Fresh Feces on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Scrape off any solids gently, without rubbing.
  2. Rinse under cold water — never hot.
  3. Apply an enzyme-based detergent and let it work.
  4. Launder per the care label in cold or warm water.
  5. Air-dry and check before machine-drying.

Don’t do this

  • Hot water cooks protein stains into fibers.

Sources: The Spruce; Tide

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

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Feces on specific materials

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

Frequently asked questions

What's the first step?

Remove solids gently without rubbing, then rinse with cold water — hot water sets protein stains.

How do I sanitize afterward?

After the enzyme treatment, wash at the warmest temperature the care label allows.

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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