Lipstick Stains? Here’s How to Get Them Out Without Damaging Fabrics

 

Lipstick stains can be tricky because they often combine pigments, oils, and waxes, making them difficult to remove without harming the fabric. However, with the right approach, you can successfully get rid of these stains while preserving your garments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing lipstick stains from your clothes.

1. Act Quickly for Best Results

• Blot the Excess: Use a paper towel or cloth to gently blot any excess lipstick from the fabric. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibers.
• Lift the Stain with Tape: For fresh lipstick stains, you can use a piece of scotch tape to gently lift some of the surface pigment. Lightly press the tape onto the stain and peel it off.

2. Pre-Treat the Stain with Dish Soap

• Dish Soap and Warm Water: Apply a few drops of liquid dish soap directly onto the stain. Dish soap is designed to break down oils, which is perfect for the oil-based components in lipstick.
• Gently Rub the Fabric Together: Rub the fabric together or use a soft cloth to work the soap into the stain in a circular motion. Be gentle to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
• Let It Sit: Allow the dish soap to sit on the stain for about 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

3. Removing Stubborn Stains with Rubbing Alcohol

• Dab with Rubbing Alcohol: If the stain persists, use a cotton ball or clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. Dab the stained area gently, lifting the lipstick from the fabric. Alcohol is effective at breaking down the waxy and pigmented elements in lipstick.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Be careful not to rub too hard, as this could damage the fabric or spread the stain.

4. Use Makeup Remover for Delicate Fabrics

• Oil-Free Makeup Remover: If you’re dealing with a delicate fabric like silk or wool, an oil-free makeup remover can be effective. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and dab the stain. Makeup remover is designed to break down cosmetics without being too harsh on fabrics.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After treating the stain with makeup remover, rinse the area with cold water to remove any residue.

5. Stain Removal with Baking Soda or Cornstarch

• Absorb the Oils: For particularly oily lipstick stains, sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the oils, then brush it off with a soft cloth or brush.
• Follow Up with Dish Soap: Once the powder has absorbed some of the stain, follow up with dish soap treatment as mentioned above.

6. Launder as Usual (With a Few Precautions)

• Check the Care Label: Before laundering, check the fabric care label and wash the garment according to the instructions. Use the warmest water that is safe for the fabric.
• Add a Stain Remover: If the stain is particularly stubborn, apply a commercial stain remover before laundering.
• Avoid Heat Until the Stain is Gone: Don’t dry the garment until you’re sure the stain is completely gone. Heat from the dryer can set the stain, making it much harder to remove.

7. Alternative Methods for Delicate or Vintage Fabrics

• Hairspray Trick: Lightly spray hairspray onto the lipstick stain and let it sit for a few minutes. The alcohol in the hairspray can help break down the stain. Blot with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water.
• Vinegar Solution: Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and dab the stain gently. Vinegar is effective for lifting stains without being too harsh.

8. Final Check Before Drying

• Inspect for Residual Stain: After washing, check the stained area. If the stain is still visible, repeat the treatment steps. Only dry the garment once the stain is fully removed.

Conclusion

Lipstick stains can be challenging, but with the right techniques, they can be removed without damaging your favorite clothes. By acting quickly, using household items like dish soap, rubbing alcohol, or makeup remover, and following the proper steps, you can keep your garments looking fresh and stain-free.