Semen is a protein-based fluid made up of a mixture of sperm from the testicles and fluids from the prostate and other sex glands. Because it is a protein-based liquid it can, in some instances, be difficult to remove from fabrics. But like any hard-to-remove stains, even semen has an enemy.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Dish soap

Laundry detergent

Dishwashing solution

Lemon juice

Oxy-clean

Stain remover

Know that not all semen spots will necessarily stain. It can depend on the consistency and amount of the semen, as well as the color and texture of the fabric. In some cases, you might find that washing with normal detergent in a normal warm (never hot) wash cycle can remove these stains. If the stain lifts than you can repeat the washing with hot water in order to fully clean and disinfect the fabric.

Consider that hot water can set protein stains into fabric--it can literally cook the stain into fibers--while cold water won't disinfect clothes, so it's best to wash in warm water. Rinse the stained area with cold water and apply a stain remover before tossing it into the washing machine.

Know that it is the protein in semen, like other organic stains, that is the problem. You need to fight the protein base in order to remove the stain. Seltzer water works well on protein-based stains that haven't yet set. Blot the stain with a sponge or towel soaked in seltzer water and rub gently. Immediately wash in a normal cycle with warm water.

Consider that dish soap and dishwashing fluids and powder specialize in cleaning protein-based stains, so these products can often work better than your average laundry detergent when it comes to stain removal. If the stain is on a white fabric, combine one tablespoon of dish soap with one cup of hydrogen peroxide. Using a cloth or sponge, blot the area and rub gently until the stain has lifted. Wash in the washing machine on a normal cycle with warm water.

Know that if the stain is on colored fabric, you will want to avoid using peroxide, which can remove the color from fabric. Instead, combine the one tablespoon of dish soap with one cup of warm water. Using a cloth or sponge, blot the area and rub gently until the stain has lifted. Wash in the washing machine on a normal cycle with warm water.

Know that if the fabric is dry clean only, do not pretreat it. Take it to your dry cleaners as soon as possible and let them handle it.

Consider that Nature's Miracle, Oxy-Clean, Kiss-Off, and good old fashioned lemon juice are other stain removal options available. Make sure to test a rag or scrap of fabric with the same color and texture as the one you want to treat in order to ensure that you don't bleach or burn your fabric.

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