Protein Albumin Stains
What Is The Problem?
Dark stains, streaks or rings mysteriously appear on a garment after cleaning and the garment owner does not remember any previous spillage or contact sources that could have caused the discolorations. These particular stains are from acciden- tal contact with protein substances that contain albumin.
What Does It Look Like?
The stains usually are a dark yellow, gold, tan or brown color. In most cases, they have a drip-like appearance, but albumin stains can vary in shape, color and intensity depending upon the actual staining substance. The appearance of the stain is also dictated by the type of fiber and the length of time it is on the fabric. In some cases, the stained area shows a thin darker edge where the albumin protein component “wicks out” and coagulates as it dries.
What Caused It?
Albumin is found in protein-based substances, such as eggs, milk and dairy by-products found in beverages and foods. It is also in fish products, blood, some glues, vomit and other body excretions. In many cases, after a fabric comes into con- tact with such substances, the moisture evaporates leaving only invisible residue. Over time with exposure to the at- mosphere this residue will oxidize and become noticeable. At this point, normal cleaning doesn’t remove the residue, but the heat of drying or finishing after cleaning can accelerate the oxidation so now the stains appear more prominent.
Can It Be Prevented?
Since this type of staining is initially very water soluble, the sooner the substance is flushed out of the fabric thoroughly with cold water the less chance of a permanent stain later. Whether quick action home stain removal attempts are done or not, it is advisable to take the stained item immediately to a professional cleaner for more complete care. After the residue dries and coagulates it will begin to age and oxidize becoming very difficult to remove.
Protein based food containing albumin was spilled down the left side of this blouse and left a tan gold stain later as the residue oxidized over time.
Who Is Responsible?
Professional cleaning does not originate such staining, nor does normal cleaning always remove albumin, especially if it has been on the fabric for a period of time. The responsibil- ity for albumin stains rests with the owner of the garment who came into contact with the protein substance during some circumstance of wear, transportation or storage.
Is There A Remedy?
Again, once albumin-based protein stains have been in a fab- ric for a period of time, they can be very difficult and some- times impossible to remove. In some cases, depending on the age of the stain, fabric color and fiber type, professional cleaners can use aqueous enzyme digester solutions to reduce or completely remove such stains.
Kelchner Cleaners provides dry cleaning, cleaning services, and wedding gown preservation to people around Kutztown, Fleetwood, Topton, and Reading.