Lipstick contains pigments, oils, and waxes that help it stay on your lips but also make it difficult to remove from fabric. However, with a few simple tricks, you can effectively get rid of lipstick stains without damaging your clothes.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Removing Lipstick Stains
- Blot the stain: Use a tissue or paper towel to gently blot the stain and remove excess lipstick. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
- Let the stain remover soak in: Lipstick stains take time to break down. Allow 15-30 minutes for the stain remover to penetrate before washing.
- Use hot water (if possible): When washing lipstick-stained clothing, use the hottest water temperature the fabric can tolerate to help break down the wax and oils in the lipstick.
Effective Steps to Remove Lipstick Stains
- Blot the stain: Use a tissue or paper towel to gently blot away as much lipstick as possible without smearing it.
- Pre-treat: Apply a stain remover or cleaning solution to the stain and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
- Wash: Launder the garment as usual, following the care label instructions. Use hot water if the fabric allows.
- Check the stain before drying: Before putting the garment in the dryer, make sure the stain is gone. If the stain remains, repeat the treatment process. Heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently.
Best Lipstick Stain Removers
- Dawn Platinum Dish Soap: This is one of the most effective products for removing lipstick stains. Apply directly to the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for 20 minutes before washing.
- Commercial stain removers:
- De-Solv-it Laundry Saver: Spray on the stain, rub the fabric against itself, then wash as usual.
- Kiss Off Stain Remover: A compact stain remover stick. Apply it to the stain, blot with a tissue, rinse, and repeat as needed.
- OxiClean Max Force: A foaming stain remover that breaks down lipstick’s waxes and pigments. Apply, let it sit for 5-30 minutes, then wash.
Household Items That Can Remove Lipstick Stains
- Rubbing alcohol: Works well to dissolve oils and waxes in lipstick. Apply directly to the stain, rub gently, rinse with cold water, and repeat if necessary.
- Liquid laundry detergent: A great pre-treatment solution. Apply directly to the stain, let it sit for 20 minutes, then wash.
With these tips, you can easily remove stubborn lipstick stains and keep your clothes looking fresh and clean!