If you love matcha, you know the joys of sifting that bright green powder, whisking it into a delicious foam, and settling in with your first sip. But you’ve probably also had the less joyful moment when that antioxidant-rich powder ends up on your favorite sweater, white pants, or kitchen counter. Matcha’s vibrant color is part of its magic (and its many health benefits), but it can also make it a bit messy. 

So, does matcha stain clothes permanently?

The good news is that most matcha stains are totally removable, especially if you know what to do (and what not to do). Below is your complete guide for cleaning up matcha messes, from fresh spills to dried stains, using simple, DIY methods.

What gives matcha its color?

Matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves. It contains a high amount of chlorophyll thanks to the unique way it's grown and harvested. Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for its bright green color.

Matcha also contains other natural plant compounds that can cling to fabric fibers. A sign of good quality matcha is a powder that is ultra-fine and almost silky smooth. But this also means that when it comes into contact with fabric, especially after being mixed with warm water, those pigments can sink into fibers. Time and heat are what turn a simple spill into a stubborn stain.

Does matcha permanently stain clothes?

Thankfully, usually no! Matcha is plant-based, which makes it much easier to remove than oil-based or synthetic dyes. Whether the stain comes out depends on a few factors:

• Type of fabric: Cotton and linen clean fairly easily, whereas silk and wool may need extra care.

• Temperature: Hot water sets stains, whereas cold water can help lift them

• Speed: The faster you act, the better

Most matcha stains can be removed; however, they are more likely to become permanent if left untreated for days, washed or dried with heat before stain removal, or ground into delicate fabrics. 

How to get matcha stains out (step-by-step)

If you catch the spill quickly, this method often removes stains completely:

1.   If you’ve spilled your made matcha tea, blot the stain immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb any excess liquid.

2.  Turn the fabric inside out and rinse using cold running water

3.  Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or dish soap and gently work it in with your fingers

4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water

5. Air dry and check that the stain is gone before washing and drying

Spilling dry matcha powder is different from spilling brewed matcha or a latte. But the good news is that dry powder stains are often easier to remove, as long as you handle them correctly.

1.   Gently shake or flick the fabric to remove as much powder as possible.

2.  Use a dry brush, like a makeup brush or toothbrush, and brush away from the fabric, not into it.

3.  Only after the powder is removed, turn the fabric inside out and rinse with cold water. Apply a small amount of liquid detergent if needed

For oily matcha stains

If matcha powder was mixed with oil (like skincare or cooking oils):

• Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda to absorb oils

• Let sit for 15–20 minutes

• Brush off before rinsing with cold water and detergent

And what NOT to do

If matcha tea spills, here’s what to avoid:

• Don’t rub the stain - this pushes pigment deeper into fibers

• Don’t use hot water first - heat sets chlorophyll

• Don’t put stained clothes in the dryer until the stain is fully gone

If dry matcha powder spills, here's what to avoid: 

• Don't add water right away
• Don't toss it straight into the wash until you've removed the stain

• Don’t rub the powder into the fabric
  

If you remember nothing else: cold water + gentle handling is key.

DIY Matcha Stain Removal Methods (For Dried or Stubborn Stains)

1. Baking Soda + Cold Water

Best for cotton, linen, and durable fabrics.

• Mix baking soda with cold water to form a paste

• Apply to the stain and let sit for 15–30 minutes

• Gently rinse and repeat if needed

2. White Vinegar + Water

Great for deeper stains on sturdy fabrics.

• Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts cold water

• Dab onto the stain using a clean cloth

• Rinse thoroughly

Avoid using vinegar on delicate fabrics like silk or wool.

3. Lemon Juice + Sunlight

Best for white or colorfast fabrics only. Lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent, so use with caution.

• Apply fresh lemon juice to the stain

• Place in direct sunlight for 1–2 hours

• Rinse well

4. Oxygen-Based Stain Removers

A good option for older stains.

• Follow product instructions carefully

• Test on a small area first

• Avoid chlorine bleach, which can set green stains

What About Matcha on Other Surfaces?

• Countertops: Baking soda + water paste

• Mugs & Ceramics: Baking soda or vinegar soak

• Wood: Wipe immediately with a damp cloth; avoid soaking

• Carpet & Rugs: Blot with cold water or diluted vinegar — never scrub

Bottom Line:

Matcha can be a bit messy, but a spill doesn’t mean your favorite shirt is ruined. With quick action and a few simple ingredients you likely already have at home, most matcha stains will come right out!