:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/makeup-stain-on-clothes-GettyImages-1785806447-5e211faea1b24e88af319a170879abe7.jpg "How to Get Makeup Stains Out of Clothes, Because It Happens to the Best of Us (1)")
The same formulas that help create a long-lasting makeup look can also lead to some pesky clothing stains. Liquid and powder foundation, mascara, lipstick, blush, and more contain oils and dyes that can be tricky to remove from fabrics unless you know the right products and steps to treat the stains. Below, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to get makeup out of clothes.
The following steps work well for all washable fabrics. If the makeup ends up on a dry-clean-only garment, you'll need to follow slightly different steps. Start by lifting away any liquid solids with the edge of an old credit card or blow away loose powders with cool air from a hair dryer. But no rubbing! Then, head to your favorite dry cleaner as soon as possible to get the stain treated.
Equipment / Tools
- Spoon, butter knife, or old credit card
- Sticky lint roller or hair dryer
Materials
- Heavy-duty laundry detergent
- Stain remover spray
- Dishwashing liquid
- Oxygen-based bleach
Instructions
How to Get Foundation Stains Out of Clothes
Remove the Excess Without Rubbing
- For liquid foundation or concealer, resist the urge to wipe it off the fabric. Rubbing will only push the stain deeper into the fabric fibers. Use the edge of a spoon, butter knife, or old credit card to lift the excess from the surface of the clothes.
- For powder foundations, grab a hairdryer set on low heat and blow the grains of powder off the fabric. You can also use a sticky lint roller or tape to pick up the powder.
Pretreat the Stain
- Apply a dab of heavy-duty laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, or a laundry stain remover to the stained area.
- Rub the cleaner into the fabric with your fingers.
- Set it aside for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the cleaner time to start breaking the bond between the fabric and the stain.
- Hold the stained area inside out facing a running hot water stream to flush out the stain from the back.
Wash the Garment
- Check the care label and wash the garment in the hottest water recommended for the fabric.
- Use your regular detergent and check for any remaining stains before tossing the clothes in the dryer. If the stain is still visible, move to the next step.
Get Out Tough Makeup Stains
If the stain wasn't treated promptly, went through the dryer before it was treated, or just wasn't removed in the first round of cleaning, it will need additional treatment.
- Mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach and cool water following the package directions. Mix enough solution to submerge the entire garment.
- Submerge the item and allow it to soak for at least eight hours.
- Drain the solution and check the stain. If traces remain, repeat the steps with a fresh oxygen bleach and water solution.
- Wash as usual when the stain is gone.
Be mindful not to put the makeup-stained garment in the dryer until the stain is completely removed, since the heat from the dryer can further set the stain.
How to Get Mascara Stains Out of Clothes
Mascara stains are composed of oil, wax, and dye. The oily or waxy component is the most tricky to remove and must be pretreated with a good quality laundry detergent or stain remover before washing. To treat mascara stains, follow the steps recommended above for getting out foundation stains.
A product that also works to help remove mascara stains is an oil-free eye makeup remover. Place a dab of the remover on the stain with a cotton swab and work it in with your fingers. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes then rinse it out with hot water before washing the garment following the care label instructions.
The 10 Best Eye Makeup Removers
How to Get Lipstick Stains Out of Clothes
Lipstick, lip glosses, and balms also produce combination stains of oil, wax, and dye. Always start by lifting away any solids you can; don't rub the lipstick deeper into the fabric. Your best chance of getting out lipstick is following the same steps recommended for foundation stains.
You can also give these treatments a try:
- Dampen a clean white cloth with rubbing alcohol and blot the stain. Keep moving to a clean area of the cloth as the lipstick transfers from the fabric. Then wash the garment as usual.
- Blot the stain with distilled white vinegar on a white cloth. Keep moving to a clean area of the cloth as the color transfers so the stain won't spread. Wash the garment as usual.
How to Get Blush and Eyeshadow Stains Out of Clothes
Follow the steps recommended for powdered foundation to remove blush, eyeshadow, or any powdered makeup stain from fabrics.
Tips to Prevent Makeup Stains
- If you're fully dressed, slip an old shirt or robe over your clothes before applying makeup.
- Allow makeup to dry completely before getting dressed.
- Wash your hands after applying makeup.
- Place a silk scarf over your face after applying makeup before pulling any garment over your head.
