The baby vomit is not just a stain, as gastric juice is very acidic and can damage the fabric if not cleaned quickly. Additionally, milk contains fats that leave stubborn stains and a bad odor.
What to do with baby vomit?
- Dry it with cold air from a hairdryer. If the stain remains visible, repeat the process with baby detergent.
- Use paper towels or a spoon to remove the vomit without spreading it. Then, cover the stain with absorbent paper to soak up moisture.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda or detergent with 50-100 ml of cold water. Apply it to the stain. Do not use hot water, as it will set the stain.
- After cleaning with cold water, dissolve baby detergent in warm water and scrub the area with a sponge.
If after cleaning appear rings of stains, the sofa needs professional cleaning. If the vomit has dried or the sofa is light-colored, use a detergent with proteases, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and remove it with paper towels. Then, clean with a mixture of water, citric acid, and hydrogen peroxide.
For leather sofas, wipe with paper towels, scrub with a sponge and baby soap, dry, and apply a leather conditioner.
When to Call a Cleaning Service?
If new stains appear after cleaning or the sofa still smells bad, it means bacteria are present. Without professional cleaning, staphylococci can develop within hours.
Conclusion
Baby vomit stains are not a big problem if cleaned quickly with cold water. Avoid vinegar, as it may damage the fabric. Instead, use soap, baking soda, or citric acid. If you can’t remove the stain, professional cleaning is the best option.