An expert-approved no cost, non-toxic, natural solution that promises to remove turmeric stains from clothes and more

Intrigued, we followed the usual drill of reaching out to experts. This is what we found.

Dr Karuna Malhotra, cosmetologist and aesthetic physician at Cosmetic Skin Clinic, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, affirmed and noted that sunlight, due to its bleaching properties, is an effective natural remedy for removing turmeric stains from utensils and clothes.

“For utensils, washing the stained surface with soap and water and then placing them in sunlight can accelerate the stain-removal process,” said Dr Malhotra, emphasising that this “eco-friendly method is not only effective but also avoids the need for harsh chemicals”.

Process decoded

When turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice, comes in contact with sunlight, the ultraviolet (UV) rays trigger a photochemical reaction that breaks down the stain’s pigments. “This reaction gradually fades the intense yellow colour,” said Dr Malhotra.

According to chef Shipra Khanna, turmeric contains curcumin, which is highly pigmented. “When exposed to sunlight, curcumin molecules undergo photochemical reactions that break them down, making the stain fade,” said Khanna.

 

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For clothes, Dr Malhotra recommended “rinsing the stained area with water, applying a mild detergent or lemon juice, and then leaving the fabric in direct sunlight for a few hours.”

What to note?

Khanna shared that sunlight works better if the turmeric-stained item is pre-treated with soap or an alkaline solution. These solutions react with turmeric and enhance the breakdown under UV light.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.