How to remove lipstick stains from fabric

Lipstick stains can be one of the most stubborn marks to remove from fabric. Whether it’s a smudge on your collar, a kiss on your shirt, or a mishap with your napkin, lipstick’s oily/waxy base combined with strong pigments makes it a formidable opponent in the laundry battle.

However, with a few household items and a bit of know-how, those stains can often be lifted without leaving a trace. In this guide, we’ll walk through a series of steps to effectively remove lipstick stains from your beloved fabrics.

Begin by gently scraping off any excess lipstick from the fabric. Use a dull knife or the edge of a credit card to lift the substance from the material. Be careful not to spread the stain or embed it further into the fabric threads.

Apply a lipid-based stain remover, such as dish soap or laundry detergent, directly onto the stain. Lipid-based cleaners are particularly adept at breaking down the oils in lipstick. Gently work the detergent into the fabric with an old toothbrush, dabbing rather than scrubbing to avoid working the stain further into the fabric fibers.

Once the detergent is applied, allow the fabric to soak in warm water for at least 15 minutes. The soaking process helps to loosen the lipstick pigment's grip on the fabric fibers, making it easier to remove.

After soaking, rinse the fabric thoroughly with warm water. Inspect the stained area closely; if any trace of the stain remains, repeat the detergent application and soaking process. It’s crucial not to dry the fabric until the stain is completely removed, as heat can set the stain permanently.

Once the stain is no longer visible, launder the fabric as you normally would, according to the care instructions on the label. Use the warmest water setting safe for the fabric type.

After washing, air dry the fabric instead of putting it in the dryer. This will prevent any remaining trace of the stain from setting. Once the fabric is completely dry, check the stained area again to ensure the mark is gone.

If the above steps have not removed a stubborn lipstick stain, consider taking the fabric to a professional cleaner. They have specialized solvents and techniques at their disposal that can often remove tough stains without damaging the fabric.

1. Test any stain removal method on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it won’t damage or discolor the material.

2. Do not mix cleaning agents, as some combinations can create harmful fumes or damage the fabric.

3. Always handle stained fabrics gently to avoid spreading the mark or making it worse.

4. Keep in mind that different fabrics and lipstick formulations may require specific approaches; if in doubt, seek professional advice.

Lipstick stains can be a nuisance, but with patience and the right technique, they don’t have to mean the end for your stained clothing or textiles. By following these steps, you should be able to tackle lipstick marks effectively and restore your fabric to its former glory. Remember, the quicker you act, the better your chances are of completely eradicating the stain.