How To Get Makeup Out Of Clothes?

Whatever you do, do not rub the makeup trying to get it out. It’s an instinctive reaction but it’ll only spread the stain and make it harder to remove.

Most makeup stains on clothes are easy to remove, if you use the right method and products. Read on to learn more about how to get makeup out of clothes.

Appropriate Solutions to Use

Rubbing alcohol, ammonia based cleaners and laundry bleaches are appropriate for lipstick stains.

Petroleum-based dish soaps like Fairy are ideal for removing oil-based makeup like mascara or lipsticks. For foundations, it is best to use alcohol cleaners or hydrogen peroxide.

Stain Removal Hacks

Try to get rid of the makeup as quickly as possible. The longer you ignore it, the deeper it soaks into the cloth fibres, making removal harder.

Here are some removal tips for different types of makeups.

A. Lipstick stains

Most lipsticks are oiled-based, so using an oil or alcohol based cleaner is best. You can use Fairy washing-up liquid, a commercial stain remover like Shout or acetone.

Blot the stain with a clean tissue or towel to remove excess lipstick. Apply the cleaner of choice on the stain spot.

Then using a clean towel, rub on the spot in circles from the outer edges towards the centre. Finish by dabbing a clean dry towel on the spot.

Repeat the process if the stain isn’t completely removed.

B. Foundation (liquid) and Self-tanner stains

Liquid makeup soaks into fabric fast so you need to work on them quickly. Start by dabbing off the excess stain.

Pour few drops of hydrogen peroxide onto the stain then follow with a circular rubbing motion on the stain using your fingers or a clean towel. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove the stain.

Launder the fabric using a washing machine. Remember to use cold water and check the washing instructions on the fabric’s care label.

If the stain is noticed hours after the accident, soak the clothing in a water solution made using oxygenated bleach before laundering.

C. Mascara

Mascara stains are the toughest to remove but are made easier using Shout cleaners.

Apply the shout cleaner (or any other pre-treating cleaner) on the stain spot using a soft-bristled toothbrush and leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with hot water. Immediately launder the garment using the fabric’s cleaning specifications.

Let the garment air-dry instead of using a dryer especially if the stain is not completely removed. The heat of the dryer can set the stain further.

D. Powdered Makeup Stains

Loose powder makeup easily gets on clothes and can spread easily when you attempt to wipe it away.

You actually don’t need water to remove powder makeup. Instead, use a pair of dry nylon tights or stockings to gently brush the powder makeup. This method is handy when you are on the move or away from your home.

Another water-free hack is using a blow dryer to blast off the powder.

If the mess is big, you can always throw the clothing in the washing machine without using any special detergents. Powder makeup should easily get off in the washing machine.

Other General Methods

Commercially produce instant cleaners like the Detergent pen or wipes and makeup wipes can be used by applying them on the stain spot and gently rubbing in circles.

Shaving cream can also be used. Just apply a squirt or more on the stain and leave it for 10-15 minutes to allow the cream to dissolve the stain. Afterwards, wipe off the cream with cold water. The garment can then be laundered using the washing machine remove the stain completely.

If you don’t have a stain remove on hand, you can use alcohol-based hairspray. Apply the spray on the stain and allow it to dry. Follow up by wiping the stain with a wet wipe and then launder the garment when you get a chance.

Final words

When using the above stain removal methods, the solutions used might leave a distinct smell. Follow-up laundering in a washing machine gets rid of the smell and ensures the stain is completely gone.