Getting makeup stains out of clothes can be a daunting task. The oils and dyes found in your favorite cosmetics can be difficult to remove from fabrics without the proper products and techniques. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can easily remove makeup stains from washable fabrics.
Whether it’s liquid foundation, mascara, lipstick, or blush, the same formulas that help create a long-lasting makeup look can also lead to pesky clothing stains. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of removing makeup stains from your clothes, using techniques that work well for all washable fabrics. If you’ve accidentally gotten makeup on a dry-clean-only garment, don’t worry – we’ll also provide tips for handling those types of stains.
How to Remove Foundation Stains from Clothes
Getting foundation stains out of clothes can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be done effectively. Here are some steps you can take to remove foundation stains from your clothes:
Remove the Excess Without Rubbing
Before you start treating the stain, remove any excess foundation from the fabric. For liquid foundation or concealer, avoid rubbing the stain as it can push the foundation deeper into the fabric fibers. Instead, use the edge of a spoon, butter knife, or old credit card to lift the excess from the surface of the clothes. For powder foundations, use a hairdryer set on low heat to blow the grains of powder off the fabric. You can also use a sticky lint roller or tape to pick up the powder.
Pretreat the Stain
Once you have removed the excess foundation, it’s time to pretreat the stain. Apply a dab of heavy-duty laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, or a laundry stain remover to the stained area. Rub the cleaner into the fabric with your fingers and set it aside for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the cleaner time to start breaking the bond between the fabric and the stain.
Hold the stained area inside out facing a running hot water stream to flush out the stain from the back. This will help remove any remaining foundation from the fabric.
Wash the Garment
Check the care label and wash the garment in the hottest water recommended for the fabric. Use your regular detergent and check for any remaining stains before tossing the clothes in the dryer. If the stain is still visible, move to the next step.
Get Out Tough Makeup Stains
If the stain wasn’t treated promptly, went through the dryer before it was treated, or just wasn’t removed in the first round of cleaning, it will need additional treatment.
Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach and cool water following the package directions. Mix enough solution to submerge the entire garment. Submerge the item and allow it to soak for at least eight hours. Drain the solution and check the stain. If traces remain, repeat the steps with a fresh oxygen bleach and water solution. Wash as usual when the stain is gone.
Remember not to put the makeup-stained garment in the dryer until the stain is completely removed, since the heat from the dryer can further set the stain. By following these steps, you can effectively remove foundation stains from your clothes and keep them looking their best.
How to Get Lipstick Stains Out
Lipstick stains on your clothes can be frustrating to deal with, but there are some effective ways to remove them. First, start by removing any solids from the fabric without rubbing the lipstick deeper into the fabric. Then, follow the same steps recommended for foundation stains to remove the remaining oil, wax, and dye combination stains.
Here are some additional treatments you can try:
- Dampen a clean white cloth with rubbing alcohol and blot the stain. Keep moving to a clean area of the cloth as the lipstick transfers from the fabric. Then wash the garment as usual.
- Blot the stain with distilled white vinegar on a white cloth. Keep moving to a clean area of the cloth as the color transfers so the stain won’t spread. Wash the garment as usual.
With these treatments, you can effectively remove lipstick stains from your clothes and keep them looking their best.
How to Get Mascara Stains Out
Mascara stains on clothes can be a real pain to remove, but with the right approach, it can be done. Since mascara stains are composed of oil, wax, and dye, it’s important to pretreat the oily or waxy component before washing. Here are some steps you can take to get rid of mascara stains:
- Apply a good quality laundry detergent or stain remover directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the garment following the care label instructions.
- Another effective method is to use an oil-free eye makeup remover. Apply a small amount of the remover to the stain with a cotton swab and work it in with your fingers. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then rinse it out with hot water before washing the garment.
Remember to always check the care label instructions before washing the garment and avoid using hot water if it’s not recommended. With these tips, you can easily remove mascara stains from your clothes and keep them looking clean and fresh.
How to Remove Blush and Eyeshadow Stains
To remove blush, eyeshadow, or any powdered makeup stain from fabrics, follow these steps:
- Gently scrape off any excess powder with a clean, dry cloth.
- Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and blot the stain from the outside in.
- Mix a small amount of laundry detergent with cold water and apply to the stain.
- Let the detergent sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse the stained area with cold water until the water runs clear.
- If the stain persists, apply a stain remover and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
- Launder the garment as usual, using cold water and a gentle cycle.
Note: Do not use hot water or a dryer to remove the stain, as heat can set the stain permanently.
Tips to Avoid Makeup Stains
To prevent makeup stains on your clothes, try these tips:
- Slip on an old shirt or robe over your clothes before applying makeup to prevent any accidental spills or smudges.
- Wait until your makeup has completely dried before getting dressed to avoid any transfer onto your clothes.
- After applying makeup, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent any accidental smudging or transfer.
- Place a silk scarf over your face after applying makeup before pulling any garment over your head to avoid any smudging or transfer onto your clothes.
