How to Get Lipstick Stain Out of Clothes Within Minutes

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Getting lipstick on your pretty dress is certainly frustrating, and when it does happen, your first thought would probably be how to get lipstick out of clothes. While a tiny smudge won’t initially ruin the overall quality of your clothes, time will come though that it will when the fabric absorbs the stain deeper into its fibers.

So how do you remove lipstick stain before it spreads, or worse, become permanent? Fortunately, there are different lipstick stain removal techniques that you can try anytime, and many of them you can do effortlessly. Keep reading to learn what these are!

Why is Lipstick Stain Often a Problem?

Almost all lipstick stains are solvent-based, and made with waxes, oils, and dyes, which are all challenging substances. Lipstick shades, especially those in vivid or deep colors, often contain concentrated pigments. These intense pigments are designed to provide striking lip color. However, when lipstick comes into contact with fabric, its composition can make it challenging to remove.

Different fabrics react differently to lipstick stains. Delicate and porous fabrics, such as silk or chiffon, are more susceptible to absorbing the oils and pigments in lipstick, making stains more difficult to remove.

Lipstick stains can withstand standard laundering processes. Washing machines alone may not be sufficient to completely eliminate the stain, especially if it has already set.

How To Prevent Lipstick Stains on Clothing in the First Place

To prevent lipstick stains, consider the following precautions:

• Apply lipstick carefully, ensuring it doesn’t smudge onto clothing.
• Use lip liners or lip primers to create a barrier between lips and fabric.
• Opt for long-lasting or transfer-resistant lip products.
• Be mindful when eating or drinking to avoid contact between lips and clothing.
• Carry a stain remover pen or wipes for quick action if a stain occurs.
• Check clothing for lipstick marks before laundering or dry cleaning to prevent setting stains.

What to Do When You Get Lipstick On Your Clothes

When you find yourself with a fresh lipstick stain on your clothing, swift action is key to getting the stain out. Here’s a concise guide on what to do when lipstick has just come into contact with your clothes:

• Act quickly. Old stains are much harder to deal with than new stains.  So when you notice a lipstick stain on a piece of clothing, act quickly. You may scrape off the excess lipstick using the edge of a credit card. This will make removing the stain much easier.
• Check the label. The most important part of that label is what your clothing is made from. Since some materials react poorly to certain chemicals, it’s best therefore to entrust them to your trusted local dry cleaner. Delicate fabrics like silk may need gentler treatment, while more robust materials like denim can withstand more rigorous approaches.
• Blot, don’t rub: Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it and embed it deeper into the fabric. Instead, gently blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel. This helps lift excess lipstick without worsening the situation.

6 Ways to Remove Lipstick Stain From Clothes

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#1: Use Dish Soap and Warm Water

Dish soap is an excellent option for removing lipstick from garments. Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water and apply it directly to the stain. Gently rub the fabric together, and then rinse it with cold water. This method is particularly effective for fresh red lipstick stains.

#2: Try Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can be a lifesaver when it comes to getting lipstick stains out of clothing items. Dampen a white cotton ball with isopropyl alcohol and gently dab it onto the stain. Blot the stain with a clean cloth until the lipstick transfers onto the cloth. Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary.

#3: Hairsprays are a must-try too!

Hairspray isn’t just for your hair – it can also help you remove lipstick from clothes. Spray a small amount of hairspray onto the lipstick stain and let it sit for a few minutes then blot it with a clean cloth. Rinse with cold water and check if the stain is gone. If not, repeat the process.

#4: Clean it with Baking Soda and Lemon Juice

A paste made from baking soda and lemon juice can work wonders on stubborn lipstick stains. Mix the two ingredients to form a thick paste, and then apply it directly to the stain. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then gently scrub the stain with a toothbrush. Rinse with cold water and check for any remaining residue.

#5: White Vinegar Solution

White distilled vinegar is known for its stain-removing properties. Mix equal parts of vinegar and warm water, and apply the solution to the lipstick stain. Blot the stain with a cloth and rinse with cold water. This method can be effective for both fresh and set-in lipstick stains.

#6: Consider Laundry Detergent and Stain Remover

For particularly stubborn lipstick stains, consider using a liquid detergent and a stain remover. Apply the detergent directly to the stain, followed by the stain remover. Follow the instructions on the stain remover’s label for the best results. After treating the stain, wash the garment according to the care label instructions.

Did You Find These Tips Helpful?

We hope you’ve found our tips on removing lipstick stains from clothing both informative and practical. Lipstick stains can be a pesky issue, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can tackle them effectively. Whether you’re dealing with a fresh smudge or an old set-in stain, prompt action and the right approach can help you keep your clothes looking their best. Remember, a little patience and a touch of know-how can make lipstick stains vanish without a trace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is it important to check the care label?

A: Care labels typically include information on washing, drying, ironing, and other specific care instructions. When dealing with stains like lipstick, following the care label’s recommendations can help you avoid using methods or products that might damage the fabric or color.

Q: Is it safe to use rubbing alcohol on all types of fabrics?

A: Rubbing alcohol helps remove a lipstick stain from many fabrics, but it’s not suitable for all types. It is generally safe for most cotton, polyester, and synthetic fabrics. However, it’s essential to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it won’t cause damage or discoloration. Avoid using this cleaning solution on delicate fabrics like silk or wool, as it may harm them.

Q: Can lipstick stains be removed from delicate fabrics like silk or wool?

A: Yes, they can be removed from delicate fabrics like silk or wool, but extra caution is needed. Use gentle stain removal methods, such as a mixture of mild dish soap and water, and avoid vigorous rubbing or scrubbing, which can damage the fabric. Always test any stain removal method on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it won’t cause harm. If you’re uncertain or concerned about potential damage, consider consulting a professional dry cleaner experienced in handling delicate fabrics.

Q: Is lemon juice really effective as a lipstick stain remover?

A: The natural acidity of lemon juice can help break down and lift lipstick from fabric, so yes, it can be effective. To use it for this purpose, apply it to the stained area, allow it to sit for a brief period, and then gently blot and rinse the area. However, it’s important to be cautious when using it on fabric, as it has an acidic nature.