Removing Stains from Hemp Fabric

Introduction  

Hemp fabric is famous for its eco-friendly, tough, and breathable properties. One of the oldest fibers used in clothing, it is becoming more fashionable because of its sustainability and strength. Because hemp fibers are extremely sturdy and resilient, hemp clothing and products are durable. But hemp is not immune to the all-too-common staining problem, just like any natural fibre. Since hemp fabrics are naturally fibers, they are more soaked than synthetic fabrics and are therefore more susceptible to stains. Whether it’s a meal spill, grease stain or ink stain, hemp fabric needs to be treated and cleaned properly to maintain its durability and appearance. 

This post is aimed at giving you useful, quick and easy ways to clean hemp fabric from stains while maintaining it’s environmentally-friendly integrity. Learning how hemp reacts to different stains and the right techniques will prolong the fabric’s appearance, durability and longevity, keeping your hemp clothes fresh and clean for years to come. 

1.  Learning about Hemp Fabric and What it Needs For Stain Removal? 

Natural Fiber Composition  

Hemp textiles are made from the threads of the hemp plant, part of the cannabis family. Hemp fibers are naturally robust, durable, and permeable, making it a popular option for sustainable consumers. This toughness is enhanced by softness and flexibility – qualities that make it more susceptible to staining. 

In contrast to synthetics, which are stain-resistant and often infused with chemicals, hemp’s natural fibers can absorb liquids more easily. Because it’s so absorbent, spills and stains can soak deeper into the fibers, making them difficult to remove after they’ve dried. 

Porosity of Hemp  

The material made from hemp is porous, which means that the air circulates through it, which makes it breatheable. Yet, the same porosity also allows hemp fibres to quickly soak up liquids, oils and other materials. Stains become more stubborn after absorption because the fabric can cling to the stain longer than artificial materials. 

For instance, if a hemp outfit is exposed to oil or oily food, the liquid seeps down through the fabric, forming a stain that may not peel off after a simple wash. In the same way, coffee or tea can quickly soak into your fabric, etching it into the material if not addressed immediately. 

Challenges in Stain Removal  

The absorbency of hemp fabric means that staining adheres quickly and the longer it is left unattended, the more resistant it becomes. This feature means that stains on hemp garments should be handled immediately, ideally before they have a chance to penetrate the cloth. 

Hemp fibers are also less resilient to damage from harsh chemicals or stain removal procedures. This could affect the fabric’s texture, color, and feel. It is important to know how hemp fabric responds to various stains, and use safe, efficient stain-removal methods in order to preserve its integrity. 

Also Read : How to Prevent Wrinkles in Hemp Clothing

2.  General Hemp Fabric Stain Remover – How to Remove Hemp Fabric Stains! 

Act Quickly  

This is probably the most fundamental lesson in stain removal: hurry up. The more time you can spend working on a stain, the greater the chance that it will be completely removed. Hemp fabrics are so absorbent that stains are likely to sink deep into the fibers, making them difficult to remove after they’ve dried. The faster you can clean the stain whether it’s a food spill, an ink stain, or a grease mark, the more chances you have to remove it. 

To remove food or beverage stains, you can just wipe off the liquid quickly with a dry cloth. Rub the stain: rubbing will force the liquid deeper into the fabric and spread it. Rather, simply blot the area with your finger to soak up as much of the liquid as you can before cleaning up the stain. 

Test Before Using Stain Removers  

Make sure to test any stain-removal product or procedure on an unseen portion of the fabric first. The test will ensure that the product doesn’t harm or smudge the hemp fabric. Although most natural cleaning supplies are safe, some chemicals or even organics react with the fabric, leaving it faded, discoloured or damaged. 

To test, rub a small amount of the stain remover onto an unnoticed part of the garment, including the inside edge or hem. Let it sit for a few minutes and see how the fabric responds. If there is no unwanted reaction (such as discoloration or damage), you can go ahead and apply the product to the stain. If you do experience problems, consider a different stain-removal process or product. 

Avoid Harsh Chemicals  

Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or strong fabric softeners to remove stains from hemp fabric. These chemicals can attack the fabric’s natural fibers, degrading them over time and making the cloth soft and brittle. 

Particularly, bleach erodes the fibers of hemp clothing, causing it to turn brown and weak. Fabric softeners, which purport to soften fabric, often build up on the fibers, making them stiff and preventing the fabric from absorbing. Be sure to choose natural stain-removal solutions or non-toxic, biodegradable cleaners that are not damaging to the fabric or the environment. 

Gentle Handling  

In order to treat stains on hemp cloth, don’t rough up the cloth. The natural fibres of hemp are robust, but can be damaged when pressed hard enough that they will tear or fray. Don’t scrub the fabric too hard, as this will break the fibers and make the stain worse. 

Instead, dab the stain removers with soft cloths, sponges or brushes, and never rub the stain, never blot it. If you are using a brush, opt for softer bristles so that the cloth stays intact while being effectively cleaned.

3.  Simple and Proper Ways To Clean Different Kinds Of Marks On Your Surface 

Oil-Based Stains (such as Grease, Makeup, Food Oils) 

Oily stains like food oils, grease or makeup are notoriously difficult to get rid of. Hemp’s soft structure means that it is susceptible to absorbency and these oils are difficult to expunge without the right tools. Fortunately, you can effectively remove such stains. 

1: Boil Baking Soda/ Cornstarch to Liquidize Oil Method 1: Boil Baking Soda/ Cornstarch 

Baking soda and cornstarch are both very absorbent ingredients that can lift oil and grease stains off hemp fabrics. The porous nature of hemp means that the oils permeate deep into the fibers, but the powders can trap the oils prior to their onset. 

Steps:  

• Apply a little baking soda or cornstarch to the sprayed area. Make sure you seal the stain completely. 
• For 15 to 20 minutes, let the powder sit on the stain. During this time the powder will absorb the oil. 
• Upon completion of the period, brush or shake the powder from the fabric. 

Care Instructions: Wash the garment as directed, in cold or warm water if possible. 

Why It Works: The powder absorbs the oils without compromising the natural fibres, thus keeping the stain from absorbing deeper into the fabric. This process is effective for a new grease or oil stain and can often erase the mark without using other chemicals. 

Method 2: Use Dish Soap or a Natural Degreaser and Leave It To Dry Before Washing. 

Dish soap is a natural degreaser designed to dissolve oils. Since hemp fabric is receptive to oils, dish soap dissolves oil molecules, making them easier to release when washed. 

Steps:  

• Put a bit of natural dish soap over the oil stain. Work the soap in with your fingers or a brush. 
• Let soap remain on the stain for 5-10 minutes to dissolve the oils. 
• Wash thoroughly in cold water to eliminate soap and oil. 
• Wash as usual and care for hemp fabric according to the instructions. 

How It Works: Dish soap is made of surfactants that dissolve oils and fabric, causing the stain to skid away easily. Using a natural biodegradable dish soap means you’re not killing the fabric with chemicals. 

Protein Stains (blood, sweat, milk, etc.) 

Blood, sweat or dairy protein stains are notoriously hard to remove as they attach to the fibers more strongly than other stains. Hemp is particularly susceptible to such stains because of its inherent absorbency, but treatments that do the trick will easily take them away without destroying the fabric. 

2: Cold Water Rinse Off Protein Grease (Why Use Cold Water) 

Protein stains such as blood or sweat need to be rinsed out with cold water, as heat can make the proteins thicken and stick to the fabric. Hot water can harden the stain and render it almost insoluble. 

Steps:  

• Once you see a protein-based stain, simply rinse it off with cold water. 
• Wipe away as much of the stain as you can with a clean tissue. 
• Do the cold-water rinse again, if necessary, to loosen the stain further from the fabric. 
• Use warm water and a gentle detergent to clean the dress. 

Why It Works: Cold water does not bind protein stains to fibers, which is important for removing stains effectively. It’s a particularly effective treatment for clean blood or sweat stains, since it keeps the proteins from embedding in the fabric. 

Method 2: Enzyme Cleaning Solutions for High Proteins 

Enzyme-based cleaners can work great on tougher protein stains. Enzymes break down protein molecules, which are easy to strip from clothing. These cleaners are soft on natural fibers such as hemp but tough on stains. 

Steps:  

• Apply the enzyme cleaner to the protein spot. 
• Let the cleaner sit on the cloth for as long as recommended (usually 15-30 minutes). 
• Scrub the stain with a dry towel to remove the stain from the fabric. 
• Take it off and wash in cold water, just like any other fabric. 

Why It Works: Enzyme cleaners are especially effective at removing protein stains by breaking down proteins into particles that are easier to remove. This works best with ink stains, such as blood or sweat, particularly if the stain has dried into the cloth. 

Tannin Spots (Coffee, Tea, Wine) 

Tannin stains, like coffee, tea or wine, are not rare, but they can be easily cleaned using the right methods. Hemp’s soft fibers quickly absorb these stains and they can be difficult to remove if not treated early. 

1. Vinegar or Lemon Juice To Remove Acidic Tannin Stains Method 1: Use Vinegar/Lemon Juice To Remove The Acidic Tannin Stains 

Acidic ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice break down tannin stains. These organic acids will also remove coffee, tea or wine stains without harming the hemp. 

Steps:  

• Combine equal amounts of white vinegar or lemon juice with water. 
• Pour the solution onto the tannin stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. 
• Clean up with a towel to get the stain out. 
• Rinse the cloth with cold water and dry it. 

Why It Works: The acidity of vinegar or lemon juice neutralizes tannins in coffee, tea, or wine, making them easier to release from the fabric. Such organic treatments are gentle on hemp and dissolve the stain. 

Method 2: Pre-Treating with a Mixture of Water and Gentle Detergent. 

You can also prep them with a mild detergent and water solution for tannin stains. The detergent will dissolve the stain and lift it from the fabric. 

Steps:  

• Combine some mild detergent with water to form a sudsy mixture. 
• Soak the stain in the solution and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. 
• Wipe it with a dry cloth to remove the stain. 
• Take it out, rinse with cold water, and wash as usual. 

How It Works: Detergents formulated for fine fabrics dissolve the tannin molecules in coffee, tea, or wine stains and allow them to be rinsed off without tearing the hemp fibers. 

Dye-Based Stains (e.g., Ink, Grass)  

It’s very difficult to scrub hemp cloth clean from stains, like ink or grass, because it’s so absorbent. These stains can set up very fast, so it’s important to address them immediately. 

1: Rubbing Alcohol (or Vinegar/Water Mixture for Ink Stains) 

You can use rubbing alcohol to scrub ink stains from hemp fabric. It dissolves the ink and permits it to come off the paper. 

Steps:  

• Rub a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a dry towel or cotton ball. 
• Rub the ink stain with the cloth gently, starting from the tip to the center of the stain. 
• Continue to blot until the ink starts to pull away from the cloth. 
• Wash the fabric with cold water, as usual. 

Why It Works: Rubbing alcohol dissolves the ink stains and prevents them from adhering to the fabric. The smooth blotting motion keeps the ink from dissipating or settling deeper into the hemp stalks. 

Method 2: Grass Stains – Soap and Water, And a Toothbrush to Rub… 

Grass spots are quite common, especially when outdoors. The natural fibers of hemp are extremely porous and grass stains are not easily scrubbed off. But if you scrub them clean promptly, soap and water can easily wash out the stains. 

Steps:  

• Combine mild soap with water to make a soapy paste. 
• Rub the solution into the grass stain and scrub it with a toothbrush. 
• Let the solution sit on the stain for a few minutes. 
• Clean off with cold water and rinse the item as usual. 

Why It Works: The compounds present in grass stains can be removed with soap and a toothbrush’s bristles allow you to scrub without breaking the hemp fiber. 

4.  Natural and Eco-friendly Stain Removers. 

Baking Soda  

Baking soda can be used as an eco-friendly stain remover. It can be used to soak oils, dispel odours, and dissolve dirt. It is especially useful on oily stains and combined with other remedies to help eliminate tough stains. 

White Vinegar  

White vinegar is an organic acid that dissolves oils, tannins and other staining materials. It does not harm fabric and is effective in removing stains without using abrasive chemicals. 

Castile Soap  

Castile soap is a natural, plant-based soap that softens the fabric and is aggressive against stains. It’s good for all types of stains, including protein stains, and it’s biodegradable and eco-friendly. 

Lemon Juice  

Lemon juice has a natural bleaching effect so you can use lemon juice to lighten and remove stains, especially stains made from tannins like coffee or wine.

5.  Using Stain Removal Products on Hemp Fabrics. 

Hemp fabric is durable and sustainable, but just like any fabric, it’s susceptible to staining. Stains on hemp, be they from food, ink or grease, need to be carefully brushed away without ruining the fibres. While you can use the home remedies such as baking soda, vinegar and lemon juice, there are many professional stain removal products available that are both safe and effective for hemp cloth. Using the right product will preserve the quality and durability of the fabric. 

Here, we’ll talk about enzyme-based stain removers, green stain removers, and hemp-safe pre-treatment sprays. Once you learn how to use these products properly, you can easily address the worst stains. 

Enzyme-Based Stain Removers: How To Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners for Dark, Hard-To-Push Stains? 

Enzyme based stain removers break down organic stains (blood, sweat, dairy), food stains, and other biological stains. These contain natural enzymes that target and dissolve the molecules of stains to pull them off the fabric. Enzyme-based cleaners are great for soft surfaces, but they’re super efficient at getting off stains. 

How Enzyme-Based Stain Removers Work  

Enzymes are proteins that promote the process and, in the case of stain removal, enzymes dissociate the bonds that bind the stain particles together so that water and detergent can easily dissolve them. Enzyme cleaners are best suited to proteins (blood or sweat), food stains (sauces or oils), and even pet stains. 

Enzyme-based cleaners come in liquid or powder versions. Liquid enzyme cleaners are easier to use as you can rub it on stains, and powdered versions are typically mixed into the laundry basket. 

How To Clean Hemp Fabric With Enzyme-Based Cleaners 

• Recognize the stain: Before using any cleaner, consider the kind of stain you’re cleaning. Enzyme cleaners will wash well off protein stains (blood, sweat, dairy). 
• Pre-clean the stain: Immediately rub a little enzyme cleaner into the stain. Swirl the cleaner through the fabric with your fingertips or a soft brush, working from the edges of the stain to the center. 
• Pat it sit: Let the enzyme cleaner sit for 15 to 30 minutes to break down the stain molecules. Enzyme cleaners work best when they have a little time to sit around but always read the product label. 
• Rinse and wash: Remove the enzyme cleaner from the surface with cold water after letting it sit. Wash the garment as you would normally do, using cold or warm water to help retain hemp’s natural fibers. 

What Time To Use Enzyme Stain Removers? 

• Stains on proteins: For blood, sweat, dairy, and other protein stains. 
• Stains on food: Food stains such as oils, sauces, or organic matter. 
• Insidious stain: For stains that cannot be removed by normal washing, such as pet stains or stains from sweat that has embedded themselves in the fabric. 

Precautions  

• The enzyme-based cleaners should be tested on a small surface first, because hemp fabrics will respond to cleaning agents differently. 
• Make sure you follow the instructions as you don’t want to damage the fabric, especially if it’s a concentrated product. 

Stain Removers That Don’t Hurt The Environment: Green, Biodegradable Hemp Fabric Stain Removers 

Hemp fabric is not only sustainable in production but also in preservation. Most commercial stain removers are laden with toxic chemicals, which eventually eat away at hemp fibres, and pollute the planet. Fortunately, there are several biodegradable and non-toxic stain removers for hemp fabrics available. They are made from naturals that are just as potent as the chemicals but do not pollute the environment or the fabric. 

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Stain Removers  

• Biodegradable Ingredients: Biodegradable stain removers are typically made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients that easily dissolve in the environment. This reduces chemical pollution.  
• Non-Dangerous to Natural Fabrics: Most natural stain removers employ enzymes, citrus or natural oils to dissolve stains. They are soft on hemp and will not damage the fibers of the fabric. 
• Safe: Eco-friendly products don’t contain toxic chemicals such as chlorine bleach, phosphates and artificial scents that can harm you or the environment. 
• Ethical Packaging: Many eco-friendly stain removers are packaged in recyclable or reusable packages, which also aids in sustainability. 

Types of Eco-Friendly Stain Removers  

• Citrus Cleaners: Lemon and orange extracts contain natural oils which decompose stains, particularly oils and grease. 
• Enzymes: These enzymes naturally dissolve stains and work well on protein, food, and organic stains. 
• Baking soda and Vinegar: Pantry staples that find their way into eco-friendly brands for their cleaning and stain removal abilities. 
• Oils: You can use a natural stain remover that includes essential oils such as lavender or tea tree oil, which will make your clothes smelling fresh. 

How To Use Green Stain Removers 

• Use the Cleaner: Rub the natural stain remover onto the stained surface. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to achieve optimal results. 
• Let it Sit: Wait for the cleaner to sit a few minutes so it can process the stain. 
• Wash the Clothes: Wash the hemp cloth as you would normally after treatment. Take it as directed on the label and dry it under cold or warm water to keep the fabric intact. 

When To Use Eco-friendly Stain Removers 

• To clean from food, drink, or body fluids. 
• To wash everyday dirt and grime from hemp fabric. 
• To regularly vacuum clothes to keep them clean. 

Precautions  

Make sure you test the stain remover on a hidden spot of the fabric before applying it to the stained spot so that it won’t stain or ruin the fabric. 

Stain Remover Sprays: How to Use Pre-Treatment Sprays to Pull Stains Up! 

Pre-treatment sprays are meant to remove stains before washing. These sprays are excellent for removing stains from hemp fabrics, especially stains that have been allowed to dry. A pre-treatment spray directly on the stain dissolves the stain particles and loosens them from the cloth, which can then be easily rinsed away. 

How Pre-Treatment Sprays Work  

The vast majority of pre-treatment sprays have surfactants, enzymes, or other stain-fighting compounds that stick to the fabric’s fibres. These chemicals dissolved in the water help disintegrate the bonds between the stain molecules, thus facilitating removal during washing. 

How To Use Stain Remover Sprays 

• Spray the Stain: Shake the pre-treatment spray bottle and dab a thick layer directly on the stain. Make sure to apply it all over the affected area. 
• Let the Spray Sit: Let the spray sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes, or as directed by the manufacturer. 
• Apply or Blot the Stain: Rub the cloth with your finger to push the spray into the fibers, or blot it with a dry cloth. Don’t rub too hard, or it will harm the fibers of hemp. 
• Rinse the Clothes: Immediately after treatment, rinse the clothes as indicated with cold or warm water. 

When to Use Pre-Treatment Sprays  

• For dried or etched stains. 
• To remove tough stains before washing. 
• For larger or more difficult stains because the spray can reach deeper into the fabric than a liquid detergent. 

Precautions  

• Be sure to read the label to ensure it works with hemp fabric. 
• Test the spray on an unsightly object before use to prevent harm or odor. 

6.  Stain Removal from Hemp Fabric: When Do I Wash Hemp Fabric? 

Once the stain is removed, washing the fabric appropriately is the second essential step. Hemp fabrics are resilient, though still prone to shrinkage or loss when handled poorly. How you wash hemp fabric after removing the stain will affect how well the fabric is held together and how the stain doesn’t come back. 

Cold/Lukewarm Water: You should Wash your garments in Cold/Lukewarm Water. 

The natural fibres of hemp fabric are sensitive to extremes of temperature, particularly warm water. It’s important to wash hemp in cold or warm water to preserve its texture, avoid shrinkage, and maintain its durability. 

Why Cold/Lukewarm Water Matters 

• Prevent Shrinkage: Hemp shrinks when it is in hot water or is washed with a high temperature. This risk is mitigated by cold or warm water. 
• Preserve Color: if you have hot water, it will wash the colors out of hemp fabrics. You can clean your hemp clothes using cold water to keep them bright and fresh. 
• Maintain The Stitch: Cold water softens the natural fibers of hemp and lessens oxidation damage from time to time. 

When Is Hemp Fabric Ready To Be Washed? 

• Choose the Right Temperature: Wash your dishes with cold or warm water. Hot water will ruin the fabric and cause it to shrink. 
• Use a Gentle Detergent: Select a mild, green, hemp-friendly detergent that does not contain toxic chemicals. 
• Adjust the Washer to a Gentle Cycle: Select a delicate or gentle cycle that minimizes agitation and relieves the tension on the fibers. 
• Gentle Cycle: How A Delicate or Gentle Wash Cycle Will Save Your Fabric from Additional Stress. 

Hemp is resilient, but too much movement can wear it out or stretch it. The slower spin speed and less agitation make a gentle cycle the perfect machine for keeping hemp clothing stable. 

Why Use a Gentle Cycle?  

• Minimize Stress: The smooth cycle removes friction and stress on the hemp fibers, maintaining the fabric’s texture and strength. 
• Eliminate Pilling: Too much agitation will cause hemp fibres to pill. A gentle cycle reduces pilling and preserves the surface texture of the fabric. 
• Make the Wear Last Longer: A gentler wash cycle means less wear and tear, which will make your hemp garments last longer. 
• Rinsing Carefully: Garments Should Be Rinsed Carefully In order to Remove Them. 

Whenever you wash your hemp fabric, be sure to rinse it well to ensure there is no detergent or stain remover left. Left-over chemicals may reduce fabric quality and affect the texture and appearance of the garment. 

Why Thorough Rinsing Is Important  

• Do Not Let Chemicals Get In The Way: Soil from detergents and stain removers can cause the hemp fibers to be stiff or coarse. 
• Stay Fresh: Rinse your hemp garment thoroughly to get rid of lingering odors from stain removers or detergents and keep your hemp clothing looking clean. 
• Keep Fabric Fresh: Properly rinsing ensures no sour chemicals stay on the fabric and cause long term damage.

7.  Drying Hemp Fabric After Cleaning It from Stains. 

Drying hemp fabric thoroughly after stain removal is just as important as washing and stain-removal itself. If you don’t do it right, drying will take away all of your effort by embedding the stain, shrinking the fabric, or overworking the fabric. Hemp is an adobe, and while resilient, it’s also prone to extreme heat and extreme drying methods. In this post, we’ll discuss how to properly dry hemp clothes after stain removal including air-drying, avoiding high heat, and line-drying to keep your hemp clothing looking and lasting as long as possible. 

Air-Drying: Why Air-Drying Is The Proper Way to Remove Any Extant Stains Without Further Setting, and To Maintain Fabric Firmness. 

The best way to dry hemp after stain removal is air-drying. This gentle drying retains the fabric’s durability and minimizes the chances of re-staining. Hemp fibres are durable but may still be damaged by direct dryer heating. Let hemp fabric air dry, and you’ll ensure that the fabric is in its best condition without it shrinking or deforming. 

Benefits of Air-Drying Hemp Fabric  

• Maintains Fabric Integrity: Hemp is a naturally tough fiber, which is susceptible to the dryer’s excessive heat. Air-drying is where the fabric dries without putting it in a hot environment and losing its integrity. 
• Stops Stains From Setting: The high temperature of dryers can cause stains not completely removed to set, rendering them difficult to remove in future wash cycles. Air-drying ensures that lingering stains are not irreversible. 
• Restricts Shrinkage: Hemp fabric can shrink under heat, especially when washed in hot water. Air drying preserves the original fit and feel of the fabric. 
• No Pilling Potential: Heat from the dryer can irritate the fibers, making them pill in nature. Air-drying eliminates this risk.  
• Environmentally Friendly: Air-drying is the most environmentally friendly way of drying as you don’t need electricity while drying clothes in a clothes dryer. It saves your carbon footprint and saves the fabric from the mechanical stress of a dryer. 

What Is The Correct Way To Air Dry Hemp Fabric? 

• Flat Drying: If you’re working with clothing that will shrink when you hang it (cardigans, delicate blouses), lay the hemp cloth flat on a clean dry object, such as a drying rack or towel. This preserves the fabric’s structure and keeps it from stretching or wrinkling. 
• Hang Drying: If you are washing clothes such as shirts, dresses, or pants, hang the fabric on a line or a drying rack. Make sure to place clothes evenly spaced, lest they bunch or fall apart. 
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can expedite the drying process, but direct sunlight can fade and harm the hemp fabric, particularly if the fabric has been treated with natural stain removers. You should hang the clothes in a shaded area or inside where you can ventilate them. 
• Keep it Well Ventilated: air-drying only does its job in a well-ventilated space. When drying indoors, turn on a fan or open windows to circulate the air and speed drying time. 
• Refrain from High Heat: Why Dryers With High Heat Are More Likely to Leave Stains Unscratchable and Burn Soft Fibers 

It may be convenient to just throw hemp clothes into the dryer after stain removal, but avoid extreme heat while doing so. High dryer temperatures do several things, such as blotting up whatever remains of the stain, shrinking the fabric, and wilting the fibres with use. The next section describes why avoiding excessive heat is important for preserving the quality of the fabric. 

What Happens When Heat Can Damage Hemp Fabric? 

• Setting Stains: If any stains remain on the fabric after washing and care, high heat will set the stain, making it more difficult to remove. It’s the heat that sequesters the stain into the fibers, and repeated washing might not get rid of it. 
• Shrinkage: Hemp fabric, like any other natural fiber, shrinks when it is exposed to high heat. Hemp clothes might shrink from their original form and size, especially if they were rinsed beforehand in hot water. 
• Broken Fibers: Continuous heating can destroy hemp’s natural fibres over time. The fabric can become less durable, brittle, and susceptible to tears or fraying. 
• Fading: As with the hemp fabrics, dyes can fade over time under the high heat, making the fabric look aged and drab. 

How To Keep From Drying Too Hot? 

• Use the Low Heat Dryer: If you must use a dryer, never forget to use the low setting. This reduces shrinkage and fabric damage. 
• Stay Away From Dryer Sheets: Dryer sheets sold on the market are often loaded with chemicals that damage natural fibers. So try wool dryer balls instead, which sanitize fabrics naturally without chemical intervention. 
• Limit Drying Time: If you have to use the dryer, dry the fabric for a shorter period of time to prevent excessive heat. You can air-dry the piece at a time and finish in the dryer on low. 
• Dry In Small Scales: Dry the fabric sparingly and evenly to save your fabric from the heat. Overcrowded areas will cause the cloth to cling together and dry unevenly, making future stain removal difficult. 
• Line Drying: How to Line Dry Hemp Fabric To Prevent Wrinkles and Remove Stains Effectively. 
• Hemp fabric can be line-dried outdoors to maintain its integrity and get all the moisture out. Many like to dry it using a line because it allows the fabric to dry naturally and not burn or damage it with excessive heat. In this section, we’ll teach you how to line-dry hemp fabric successfully. 

Line Drying Hemp Fabric Benefits Of Line Drying Hemp Fabric 

• Reduced Shrinkage: As mentioned earlier, hemp fabrics shrink when heated. Line drying is more gentle and avoids this problem. 
• Gentler to the Fabric: Line drying is gentler to the fabric than machine drying. It retains the organic feel and feel of the fabric — making it smooth and velvety. 
• Less Wrinkling: If done correctly, line drying can eliminate wrinkles. You just need to hang the clothes high enough that they don’t bunch. 
• Green: Line drying is one of the greenest drying techniques because it does not require any electricity. It also conserves energy and minimizes your carbon footprint. 

Tips for Line-Drying Hemp Fabric  

• Hang Items Consistently: If you’re line-drying hemp, hang your items uniformly. This dries the fabric more evenly and avoids deep creases and wrinkles. 
• Use Clothespins for Extra Comfort: If you’re putting the clothes on the clothesline, tie it with clothespins. This prevents the fabric from swaying in the wind or fluttering off the line. 
• Stay Out Of Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can help dry things out faster, but direct sunlight can make hemp fabric yellow over time. Dry them outside in the shade, or take them in the room once they’re nearly dry to save their colour. 
• Smooth out wrinkles : Before putting the fabric up, pat wrinkles with your hands. This saves on later ironing and it also makes the fabric look better when drying. 

8.  Avoiding Future stains on Hemp Fabric. 

It’s essential that the hemp fabric is not stained to ensure the longevity of the clothing and reduce the cleaning requirements. While there are no guaranteed methods to avert stains, here are a few ways you can reduce the risk of stains and keep your hemp clothes fresher longer. 

Stain Repellent Sprays: We Talk About Using Natural, Sustainable Stain Repellent Sprays. 

Stain-repellent sprays are a great way to keep hemp fabric free of spills, dust and stains. Such sprays insulate the fabric and repel liquids from getting absorbed into the fibers. There are many natural, non-toxic stain repellent sprays on the market that don’t contain toxic chemicals that are great for hemp fabric. 

How Stain-Repellent Sprays Work  

Stain repellent sprays work by impregnating the fabric with a water or oil-repellent barrier. This keeps liquids from getting through the fabric, which eliminates food or drink stains, even dirt. 

How to Apply Stain-Repellent Sprays  

• Tidy the Fabric: Before applying the stain repellent spray, make sure the fabric is clean and dry. Use the spray to coat the entire dress. 
• Dry: Let the spray completely dry before wearing the garment. This helps keep the fabric’s breathable, organic feel while protecting it from spills. 
• Reapply Often: Depending on the use, the stain repellent spray may require reapplying every couple of washes or when exposed to dust or water for extended periods of time. 
• Proper Storage: Store Hemp Clothes Carefully To Avoid Accidental Spills or Contact With Harmful Agents. 

Storing properly is another important step to avoid future staining on hemp cloth. Having your hemp clothes stored properly will eliminate the possibility of accidental spills or exposure to chemicals that might destroy the garment. 

Storage Tips for Hemp Clothing  

• Store In A Cool Dry Area: Do not store hemp fabrics in humid, moist, or hot environments, as it may develop mildew or deteriorate the fibers. 
• Protect with Garment Bags: When you are handling something more delicate, keep in garment bags so the fabric is not exposed to dust, dirt, and stains. 
• Do Not Overpack: Make sure to allow for clothes to hang out without being squeezed against clothing or making it wrinkled or damaged. 

Preventing Stains: Never Wait Too Long If You Find A Stain: It’s Always Best to Do It As Soon As You Know You Have One. 

The quickest way to eliminate stains before they become a big issue is to clean them immediately. The longer a stain lingers, the more challenging it is to clean. Early removal prevents the stain from sticking to the fabric, making it much easier to wash away. 

9.  Mistakes When It Comes To Stain Removal: 

Although there are many ways to get rid of stains on hemp cloth, the mistake you make can hinder the cleaning and may even ruin the cloth. By not making these errors, you’ll avoid causing your hemp clothing to be dirty and stained. 

Use Hot Water For Stains: Why Hot Water Can Dampen Some Stains, Especially Protein Stains. 

If you use hot water to remove stains such as blood, sweat, and dairy, then the proteins may attach themselves to the fabric and make it more difficult to remove. When working with protein-based stains make sure to apply cold or warm water to prevent the stain from setting. 

Too Much Scrubbing: How Heavy Scrubbing Hurts Hemp Fabric 

If you scrub too hard, the fibres in hemp fabrics degrade, resulting in wear and tear. You can rub or blot the fabric with a soft cloth or sponge rather than rubbing stains with your hands. This keeps fabric stress at a minimum and prevents wear. 

Refusing To Test Products: Why It’s Always Better to Test a Stain Remover On A Small Spot Before Using It On the Garment As A Whole? 

Every stain remover and cleaning solution you use on a hemp garment should be tested on a small area that isn’t visible to ensure that it won’t ruin the fabric. Occasionally, stain removers or cleaning agents will discolor or shrink the fabric, so you should test them.

Yashvi Jain

Yashvi Jain, a writer by day and reader by night, is an accomplished content writer and published author of ‘Mind Under Construction. Yashvi possesses extensive knowledge of fabrics, sustainability, and literature. On occasions, you would catch her scripting for her YouTube channel, engrossed in fiction, or ardently dedicating her time to research and storytelling.