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How to Get Vomit Stains Out

Acidic protein — scrape, cold-rinse, enzyme-treat.

Quick answer

Fresh Vomit 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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Vomit on specific materials

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

Frequently asked questions

Hot water to sanitize?

Not first — hot water sets the protein. Rinse cold, enzyme-treat, then wash at the label's warmest safe temperature.

How do I handle the smell?

The enzyme treatment addresses odor as well as the stain. Baking soda on the dried area can help residual odor.

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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