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How to Remove 5 Common Sarawak Food Stains

  • Writer: Sinar Saredah
    Sinar Saredah
  • Apr 20
  • 3 min read

(Laksa, Kolo Mee & Friends)

Sarawak food is legendary—fragrant, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. But when that laksa broth lands on your shirt or a drop of kolo mee oil hits your pants, panic sets in.

As a professional laundry team based right here in Kuching, we’ve seen it all. From curry-stained baju kurung to turmeric-tinted curtains, here’s how you can tackle five of the most common local food stains—and when it’s time to let the pros step in.

1. Sarawak Laksa (Chili Oil + Coconut + Shrimp Paste)

The stain culprit: A fiery blend of oil, sambal, and spiceFabric danger: Deep-set orange stains + strong lingering smell

DIY Steps:

  • Blot (don’t rub!) with a dry tissue as soon as the spill happens.

  • Dab with dishwashing liquid + vinegar (1:1 mix).

  • Soak the stained area in lukewarm water with baking soda for 20–30 minutes.

  • Launder with enzyme-based detergent on warm.

🧼 Pro tip: The sambal oil can bind with synthetic fibers. If the stain is older than 24 hours, bring it to a professional cleaner ASAP.

2. Kolo Mee (Lard Oil + Soy Sauce)

The stain culprit: Clear oil spots that darken over timeFabric danger: Spreads easily and attracts dust

DIY Steps:

  • Sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder on fresh oil to absorb it.

  • After 15 minutes, brush off and apply dish soap directly.

  • Gently rub and rinse with warm water.

  • Wash with the hottest temperature your fabric allows.

🧼 Pro tip: Use a soft toothbrush to agitate the stain without damaging the weave.

3. Kampua Mee (Lard + Light Soy + Shallot Oil)

The stain culprit: Greasy residue with pale brown hueFabric danger: Hard to spot until it sets

DIY Steps:

  • Blot with a tissue, then pretreat with lemon juice and baking soda paste.

  • Let sit 10–15 minutes.

  • Rinse with warm water, then wash as normal.

🧼 Pro tip: Air dry first—don’t use the dryer until you're sure the stain is gone. Heat sets oil stains permanently.

4. Manok Pansoh (Herb & Turmeric Broth)

The stain culprit: Turmeric-based yellow brothFabric danger: Very stubborn, especially on white cotton

DIY Steps:

  • Mix white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (equal parts), apply directly.

  • Leave under sunlight for 30 minutes—the UV light helps bleach the yellow out.

  • Wash with colour-safe bleach or oxygen-based cleaner.

🧼 Pro tip: Turmeric is photoreactive. Letting sunlight do some work is surprisingly effective!

5. Teh C Peng Special (Milk + Gula Apong)

The stain culprit: Sugar syrup and milk comboFabric danger: Sticky residue + dairy protein = potential sour smell

DIY Steps:

  • Rinse immediately with cold water (never hot—it cooks the milk).

  • Pre-soak with detergent and white vinegar.

  • Wash on cold, repeat if necessary.

🧼 Pro tip: Use enzyme-based detergent to break down milk protein.

When to Call the Professionals

Some stains need more than elbow grease—especially if:

  • It’s been more than 48 hours since the spill

  • The fabric is delicate (e.g. silk, wool, linen-blends)

  • The item has sentimental or high replacement value

  • You're dealing with bulk spills on curtains, rugs, or seat covers

That’s where we come in.

We Can Help You With:

Got a stubborn stain? Contact us and send us a photo—we’ll tell you if it can be saved and how we’ll treat it.

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