Whether it’s a swift swipe of mascara, a deliberate application of foundation, or an artistic dab of lipstick, makeup can do wonders for the self-image. However, when makeup finds its way onto your clothing, it can quickly transform from confidence booster to pesky problem. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss how to get makeup out of clothing and save your favorite garments from these tricky stains.
Recognizing and Classifying Makeup Stains
Before we delve into how to remove makeup stains, it’s crucial to understand that different types of makeup create different types of stains. Lipstick stains, mascara stains, foundation stains, liquid foundation stains, and concealer stains, for example, all require different stain removal strategies. Moreover, powder makeup, which might leave less obvious stains, also necessitates its unique approach for complete removal.
Lipstick Stains
Lipstick can leave a variety of stains on clothes, from subtle, waxy spots to glaring, colorful smears. These stains are typically greasy, so treating lipstick stains can be a bit challenging. The most common methods to remove lipstick stains include the use of
Foundation and Concealer Stains
Both liquid foundation and regular foundation leave greasy stains due to their oil content. This property can make removing makeup stains of this kind a little tricky. But don’t worry, liquid
Mascara and Eyeliner Stains
Mascara and eyeliner stains can be stubborn. They’re typically oil-based, so water alone won’t lift these stains from clothes. In this case, a good quality detergent or a specific makeup stain remover might be required to remove lipstick too.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Makeup Stains
Now that we’ve discussed the types of makeup stains, let’s focus on how to remove makeup stains from clothes. In removing lipstick stains in general, remember to always test your stain remover on an inconspicuous part of the garment to ensure it won’t discolor or damage the fabric.
Step 1: Identify the Stain
Look closely at the makeup stain to determine what type it is. This step is vital to ensure that you use the right methods and products to remove makeup stains effectively. If you wear makeup regularly, you’ll likely recognize the type of stain quickly.
Step 2: Remove Excess Makeup
Use a dull knife, butter knife, or even a plastic knife to gently scrape off any excess makeup from the fabric. For liquid makeup stains, a paper towel can be used to gently blot the stain and absorb as much of the makeup as possible. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the paper towel on stained area, as this can push the makeup stain deeper into the fabric fibers.
Step 3: Pre-treat the Stain
Depending on the type of makeup stain, different pre-treatment methods are recommended.
- For lipstick stains, try blotting the stain with a damp cloth, then applying a few drops of dish soap. Gently rub the soap into the stain with your fingers or a soft bristled brush. Then, rinse the stained area with warm water.
- If you’re dealing with foundation stains or concealer stains, a makeup wipe can be effective at removing the initial layer of makeup. Then, use a liquid laundry detergent or dish soap, apply it to the stained area and rub gently with a soft bristled toothbrush.
- Mascara and eyeliner stains might require more specialized treatment. An oil free makeup remover can be applied using a cotton ball or swab. Allow the makeup remover to sit on the stain for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Step 4: Launder the Garment
abel suggests hand washing, fill a basin with cool water and a liquid detergent, then gently clean the garment. If a machine wash or washing is permitted, ensure you use a high-quality detergent and set your washer to the appropriate settings.
For particularly stubborn makeup stains, you might want to add a stain remover or an instant stain remover to your wash cycle. Make sure to using cold water and avoid using hot water as it can set the stain.
Step 5: Inspect the Garment Post-Wash
After washing, check the stained area carefully. If the stain remains, it’s important to not air dry the garment yet as heat can set the stain permanently. Instead, repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps. If the stain has been completely lifted, you can the dry cleaner and proceed to dry your garment according to the care label instructions.
Alternative Methods for Removing Makeup Stains
In addition to the conventional stain removal steps described above, there are a few other techniques you can try to remove stains yourself.
Using Shaving Cream to Remove Makeup Stains
Shaving cream can be surprisingly effective at removing makeup stains from clothes. Apply the shaving cream to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a clean cloth or a damp paper towel to gently blot the shaving cream away. Launder the garment as usual, and the makeup stain should be gone.
Using Hairspray to Remove Lipstick Stains
Hairspray is another unconventional but often effective method for treating lipstick stains. Simply spray a small amount of hairspray onto the lipstick stain and let it sit for about ten minutes. Then, dab the hair spray on area with a damp cloth, and launder as usual.
Using Makeup Remover to Treat Various Makeup Stains
Professional makeup artists often have an array of tools at their disposal to remove makeup, and one of those is a makeup remover. You can apply a small amount of makeup remover to a cotton ball or a clean paper towel and gently blot the stained area. Follow this with regular laundering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get foundation stains out of clothes?
Removing foundation stains from clothing involves a few key steps. Start by removing excess, liquid foundation stains first with a dull knife or plastic knife, being careful not to rub or smear the stain further into the fabric. Next, pre-treat the stain by applying a few drops of liquid dish soap or liquid laundry detergent directly onto the stained area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently rub the detergent into the stain. Rinse with cool water, then launder as usual following the garment’s care label instructions. If the foundation stain persists after washing, repeat the pre-treatment and laundering process.
Can makeup be washed out of clothes?
Yes, makeup can usually be washed out of clothes with the right technique and products. It’s important to remember that different types of makeup stains may require different methods. For instance, lipstick stains might require a grease-fighting dish soap, while mascara stains may be best treated with a makeup remover. In most cases, pre-treating the stain, followed by laundering, will effectively remove makeup stains from clothes.
How do you get foundation and concealer out of clothes?
Foundation and concealer, similar in composition, are oil-based products, which can make these stains a bit challenging to remove. Start by blotting the stained area with a makeup wipe to remove any excess product. Apply a liquid laundry detergent or dish soap directly to the stained area, then gently rub it in with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse with warm water, then wash the garment as per the care label instructions. Always check the stained area after washing. If the stain remains, repeat the pre-treatment and washing process.
How do you remove permanent makeup from clothes?
Permanent makeup, like any long-wear or waterproof makeup product, can be more challenging to remove. Rubbing alcohol can be effective in breaking down these stubborn stains. To start, test the rubbing alcohol on an inconspicuous area of the garment to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric. If it’s safe, apply the alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and blot the stain. Rinse thoroughly, then launder stained garment as usual.
How do you get foundation out of clothes ASAP?
For a quick removal method, use a makeup wipe to remove as much of the foundation as possible without rubbing it deeper into the fabric. Apply a few drops of dish soap or liquid laundry detergent to the stained area to remove foundation further, gently rubbing it with your fingers or a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse the area with warm water. If possible, launder the garment immediately following the garment’s care label instructions.
Will Dawn remove makeup from clothes?
Dawn dish soap is known for its grease-fighting power, making it an excellent tool for removing makeup stains, especially those from lipstick and foundation. Apply a few drops of hot water directly to the stain and gently rub it in with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water. Follow up by laundering the garment as per the care label instructions.
Does vinegar remove makeup from clothes?
Vinegar can be an effective natural stain remover, especially for color-based stains like those from lipstick or blush. To use this stain alone, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and apply this solution to the stain. Gently rub it with a soft-bristled toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly before washing as usual.
How do you remove makeup from a shirt?
The process of removing makeup from a shirt involves identifying the type of stain, removing any excess makeup with a paper towel or knife, pre-treating the stain or cleaning cloth with a suitable agent (like dish soap or makeup remover), and laundering the shirt according to its care label.
Tips for Preventing Makeup Stains
While understanding how to remove makeup stains is crucial, prevention is always the best approach. Here are a few tips that can help you avoid makeup stains in the first place:
- Consider wearing a smock or an old t-shirt when applying makeup.
- When dressing, cover your face with a clean cloth or a scarf to prevent makeup from transferring onto your clothes.
- Use makeup wipes to clean any makeup residue off your hands and neck before getting dressed.
- If you’re a professional makeup artist, it might be wise to keep a stain remover handy, just in case.
Remember, the sooner you treat a makeup stain, the better the outcome. So, the next time you find yourself with a lipstick stain or foundation smears on your favorite outfit, don’t panic. Follow the steps and tips mentioned in this guide, and you’ll know exactly how to get makeup out of clothing.
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