Ah, Easter. That charming time of year when chocolate eggs breed with wild abandon and one’s home quietly transforms into something resembling a low-level crime scene. Sticky fingerprints bloom on every available surface. Children, flushed with sugar and purpose, smear chocolate with a sort of creative abandon, clothes, sofas, walls, even the cushions you were irrationally fond of.
Still, all is not lost. With a few sensible, natural tricks, order can be restored and sanity, just about, preserved.
Before you start
Gently scrape off as much chocolate as possible with a spoon. Do not be tempted to smear it about in a moment of misguided optimism. And avoid heat at all costs, hot water and tumble dryers will only set the stain, turning a fleeting Easter mishap into something rather more permanent.
Clothing
Cold water is your ally. Rinse thoroughly, then soak in equal parts scented vinegar and water for 10–15 minutes. A gentle stain solution works beautifully too. Lightly brush, rinse again, and wash as normal with a natural detergent. Only dry once the stain has completely disappeared. A final spritz of garment refresher leaves everything smelling quietly triumphant.
Upholstery
Blot, don’t rub, however strong the urge. A little baking soda with vinegar and warm water works wonders. Dab, blot, repeat. The chocolate will, eventually, concede defeat.
Painted walls
A soft cloth with diluted scented vinegar, or a touch of washing-up liquid in cold water, will do the job. Dab lightly, no scrubbing, and dry straight away. Best to avoid adding watermarks to the list of seasonal decorations.
And now I’m curious, what are your tried-and-tested chocolate-saving tricks? I suspect there are a few ingenious ones lurking out there.
Talk soon,
B x
