How to Remove Makeup Stains

How to Remove Makeup Stains from Washable Clothes

Even the most careful makeup application can result in a stain on your favorite shirt. However, don't panic. You can work to remove the stain using a few simple at-home steps. When dealing with liquid foundation stains, add a drop of dish soap and allow it to rest. This extra step will help loosen the oils in the stain from the fabric before using your washing machine.

1. Scrape Excess

   Use a butter knife or the edge of a credit card to lift liquid makeup away from the fabric. For dry powders, bronzers, and rouge, use a lint roller to remove powder from the fabric. Be sure not to rub or wipe the stain because it will push the makeup deeper into the fibers, making it harder to remove.

2. Apply Stain Remover

   Apply a pre-wash stain remover solution, especially on semi-liquid foundation and concealer stains.

3. Work in the Stain Remover

   Work the stain remover into the spot using your finger or a soft-bristled brush. You may use a heavy-duty liquid detergent such as Tide or Persil. If you own powdered detergent, you may combine it with water to form and apply a paste.
   

4. Let It Sit

   Allow the cleaning solution to sit on the fabric for at least 15 minutes, then scrub the stain lightly with a soft bristled brush and rinse in hot water.
   

5. Wash the Item

   Wash the stained item in the hottest water suitable for the fabric as advised by its care label. Use detergent or an all-fabric bleach to remove any remaining color in the stain. Check the garment for any remaining stain before drying.
   

6. Mix a Solution

   If the stain is still visible after laundering, mix a solution of oxygen-based bleach, such as OxiClean, Clorox 2, Country Save Bleach, or Purex 2 Color Safe Bleach, and cool water and apply to the stain. Follow the package directions for the amount of product suitable per gallon of water. 

7. Submerge the Garment

   Submerge the garment completely and allow it to soak for at least eight hours. Remove the garment and check the stain. If any remains, repeat the soaking with a fresh solution. Wash as usual if the stain is gone.

How to Remove Makeup Stains from Carpet and Upholstery

Even if you manage to keep your clothes spotless while putting on makeup, a splash of foundation may find its way to your carpet or couch. You can use similar methods to remove makeup stains on carpet and upholstery as you would for makeup stains on clothing.

1. Remove Excess

   Lift away as much makeup residue as possible using a dull knife. Don't wipe or rub the makeup because it only pushes the stain deeper into the carpet's fibers or upholstery.

2. Apply a Solution

   Apply a commercial carpet cleaning solution or mix one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent in two cups of cool water, stirring well to combine. Dip a clean white cloth or paper towel into the solution and wring lightly—work from the outside edge of the stain toward the center. Blot until no more color is transferred from the carpet to the cleaning cloth.

3. Sponge the Stain

   Dip a second clean white cloth in tepid water and sponge the stain to remove any traces of the cleaning solution.
   

4. Blot Dry

   Finish by blotting with a clean, dry cloth, allowing the carpet to air dry. Once dry, vacuum the area to lift the carpet fibers.
   

When to Call a Professional

If your stained fabric is dry clean only, visit your dry cleaner and point out the stain. If you're using a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag. Silk and vintage clothing and upholstery always require specialty cleaning. 

Additional Tips for Handling Makeup Stains

If you own an oil-free eye makeup remover, you can apply a small amount to your stained item. This works best on waterproof products like mascara. Apply the liquid makeup remover gently using a cotton swab and dab at the area after it's saturated. If you have oil-free makeup wipes, you may use them too. You can apply these methods to face paint stains as well.