Lipstick enhances your look but can be a nightmare when it ends up on clothing, carpets, or upholstery. Despite its stubborn nature, removing lipstick stains doesn’t have to ruin your day. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to tackle lipstick marks swiftly and efficiently, as recommended by the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab.
Removing Lipstick from Clothes
- Scrape Off Excess: Gently scrape off any excess lipstick from the fabric. Using a piece of clear tape can help lift smaller particles without spreading the stain.
- Apply Stain Remover: Treat the stained area with a prewash stain remover like Shout Advanced Gel ($14 for a 3-pack, amazon.com). Apply it as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting.
- Launder Immediately: Wash the garment according to the care label instructions, using the hottest water safe for the fabric. Check the stain before drying; heat can set the stain, making it permanent.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the stain persists after washing, reapply the stain remover or try sponging with a dry-cleaning solvent, then launder again.
Tips for Lipstick Stain Removal on Carpets
- Remove Excess: Carefully remove any excess lipstick from the carpet to avoid deeper stains.
- Use Dry-Cleaning Solvent: Dab the area with a dry-cleaning solvent like lmperial Cleaner and Spot Remover (amazon.com), using a clean white cloth. Blot the stain repeatedly, absorbing the lipstick into the cloth.
- Detergent and Vinegar Solution: If traces of the stain remain, mix one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent like Dawn Dish Soap ($17, amazon.com) and one tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water. Apply this solution to the stain and blot until the stain lifts. Finish by sponging with cold water and blotting dry to remove cleaning solution residues.
Cleaning Lipstick from Upholstery
- Scrape Off Excess Lipstick: Similar to carpet, start by gently scraping off any excess lipstick from the upholstery.
- Blot with Dry-Cleaning Solvent: Apply a dry-cleaning solvent to a clean white cloth and dab the stain. Continue blotting until the stain no longer transfers to the cloth.
- Repeat as Needed: If the stain is stubborn, keep applying solvent and blotting until the lipstick mark is completely removed.
General Advice
- Act Quickly: The sooner you tackle the lipstick stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Check Colorfastness: Always test cleaning solutions on a hidden area of the fabric first to ensure they do not cause discoloration or damage.
- Prevent Future Stains: Always check pockets for lipsticks or balms before washing clothes. Lip products can melt in the wash, creating additional stains.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove lipstick stains from various surfaces, saving your clothes, carpets, and upholstery from permanent damage. Remember, patience and the right cleaning techniques are key to dealing with makeup mishaps.
