How to Remove Makeup Stains from Clothes: 8 Easy Steps

To remove makeup stains from clothes, first, gently blot the stain with a paper towel to remove any excess. Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap or laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse the area with cold water. If the stain persists, repeat the process or try using a makeup remover wipe on the spot before washing the clothing in cold water as usual.

Step 1: Identify what type of makeup stains

Identify what type of makeup stains

Before diving into stain removal, it’s important to identify the type of makeup that caused the stain. Different types of makeup require different treatments:

  • Foundation: Liquid, powder, or cream-based
  • Lipstick: Oil-based or long-wearing
  • Mascara and Eyeliner: Waterproof or regular
  • Blush and Eyeshadow: Powder or cream-based

Step 2: Pre-Treatment Techniques

makeup stains Treatment

Once you know what kind of makeup you’re dealing with, you can use these specific pre-treatment techniques to tackle the stain:

 Foundation: 

  • Blot the excess: Use a clean cloth to blot (not rub) the excess foundation.
  • Dish soap or liquid detergent: Apply a small amount to the stain.
  • Rub gently: Rub the fabric together gently, then rinse with cold water.

 Lipstick: 

  • Scrape off excess: Use a spoon or dull knife to scrape off as much lipstick as possible.
  • Rubbing alcohol or makeup remover: Dab the stain with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or makeup remover.
  • Rinse: Rinse the area with cold water.

 Mascara and Eyeliner: 

  • Makeup remover wipe: Dab the stain with a makeup remover wipe.
  • Laundry detergent: Apply a small amount of detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Rinse: Rinse with cold water.

 Blush and Eyeshadow: 

  • Stain remover spray or liquid detergent: Apply directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Rinse: Rinse with cold water.

Step 3: Washing the Garment

makeup stains washing

After treating the stain beforehand it’s time to wash the clothing item:

  • Care label instructions: Always follow the washing instructions on the care label.
  • Water temperature: Use the recommended water temperature for the fabric.
  • Stain-fighting detergent: Add a stain-fighting detergent to the wash cycle.
  • Check the stain: Before drying, check if the stain is gone. If Stains still there, repeat the pre-treatment steps.

Step 4: Post-Wash Care

After washing, take these steps to ensure the stain is completely gone:

  • Air dry: Avoid using the dryer as heat can set any remaining stain.
  • Inspect the garment: Look for any remaining traces of makeup.
  • Repeat if necessary: If the stains keep at it , repeat the stain removal process.

More Cleaning Articles to Read:

How to Remove Makeup Stains from Clothes without Washing

Got a makeup stain but no time for laundry? Here’s a quick fix! Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth, then use a makeup remover wipe or a bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball to dab it away. For oily spots, sprinkle baby powder or cornstarch, let it sit, and brush it off. You can also try shaving cream—just apply, wait, and blot with a damp cloth!

Additional Tips to Take off Makeup Stains from Clothes

Remove Makeup Stains from Clothes

Here are a few extra tips to help you succeed in removing makeup stains:

  • Use cold water to avoid the stain from becoming permanent.
  • Test any cleaning solution on a hidden spot first.
  • Act quickly to stop the stain from setting.
  • Blot gently to prevent spreading the stain.
  • Always follow the care instructions label.

How to Remove Makeup Stains from Polyester

  • Gently blot the stain with a paper towel to remove any excess makeup.
  • Apply a small amount of dish soap or liquid laundry detergent to the stain.
  • Rub the fabric gently to work in the soap, then rinse with cold water.
  • Repeat if needed, then wash as usual on a cold setting to avoid setting the stain.

How to Remove Makeup Stains from Carpet

Blot the stain with a damp cloth, then apply a bit of dish soap and water. Gently scrub, blot with clean water, and let it air dry.

How to Remove a Makeup Stain from a White Shirt

  • Blot the Stain: Use a paper towel or cloth to lift any excess makeup without rubbing.
  • Apply Dish Soap: Dab a small amount of dish soap on the stain and gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
  • Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the fabric under cold water to remove soap and makeup residue.
  • Repeat if Necessary: Repeat these steps if the stain persists, then wash the shirt as usual in cold water.

Conclusion

Makeup stains on clothes can be frustrating, but with these easy steps, you can remove them effectively and keep your wardrobe looking great. Remember to act quickly, identify the type of stain, and follow the appropriate pre-treatment and washing techniques. With these hacks, you’ll never have to worry about makeup stains ruining your favorite outfits again!

FAQS

 Can I use hot water to remove makeup stains? 

No, hot water can set the stain and make it harder to remove. Always use cold water when treating makeup stains

 Can I use regular laundry detergent to remove makeup stains? 

Yes, regular laundry detergent can be effective, especially when combined with pre-treatment methods like dish soap, rubbing alcohol, or a stain remover spray.

 Does Vinegar Remove Makeup from Clothes? 

Yes, vinegar can effectively remove makeup stains from clothes.

 Does Shaving Cream Remove Makeup Stains? 

Yes, shaving cream can help remove makeup stains. Rub a bit on the stain, let it sit, then blot and rinse with cool water.