Tomato Sauce or Ketchup on a Fabric Bag

Take off the excess without rubbing, run cold water through the stain from the back if the fabric is washable, and work in a liquid detergent. The American Cleaning Institute adds that a mild bleaching agent may be used on white fabric or after a colourfastness test.

What the guide says

• For ketchup, ACI says to remove the excess with a spoon or knife without rubbing it in, and to run cold water through the stain from the back on a washable item. It says to avoid dabbing, which can spread the stain.
• For tomato sauce, ACI says to run cold water through the back of the stain to push it out, and not through the front, which forces it deeper.
• It then suggests working liquid laundry detergent into the stain in circular motions, from the outside in.
• If the fabric is white, or you have tested for colourfastness, ACI says a mild bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar may be applied with a sponge, and then rinsed well.
• It advises checking before drying, since dried stains are often permanent.

What to do on a bag

1. Scoop off what you can with a spoon.
2. Turn the bag lining out if you can, and flush from the back.
3. Work in a little liquid detergent and rinse by sponging.
4. Test a bleaching agent first, on a hidden spot.
5. Let it air dry and look again.

Where this answer stops

ACI’s guide is written for washable clothing. A bag may have a base, glue or trim that does not like water, and a stain that is old or deep can remain. This is general guidance.