Lipstick stains on your favorite shirt or dress can be a fashion disaster. You didn’t notice it before, and now the stain has set after drying. No worries! This guide will take you through the steps to restore your fabric to its former glory.
Quick Overview
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Required Tools: Dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, old toothbrush
Why Lipstick Stains are Stubborn
Lipstick contains oils, waxes, and pigments. These substances can adhere to fibers in fabrics, making them tough to remove, especially after drying. The heat from the dryer can ‘set’ the stain, anchoring it more securely to the fabric.
Main Ingredients in Lipstick
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Oils | Base |
| Waxes | Structure |
| Pigments | Color |
Tools You’ll Need
Before starting, gather your stain-removing arsenal:
- Dish soap (Brand recommendation: Dawn)
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Old toothbrush
- White cloth
- Cold water
Step-by-Step Process
1. Examine the Fabric
Check the care label. Delicate fabrics like silk or wool may require specialized treatment.
2. Pre-treat with Dish Soap
Apply a few drops of dish soap onto the stain and gently rub it in using your fingers.
3. Let It Sit
Allow the soap to sit for 10 minutes. This will break down the oils and waxes.
4. Rinse and Check
Rinse under cold water and check the stain. If it’s gone, great! If not, proceed to the next step.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the stain. This acts as a bleach, so test on an inconspicuous area first.
6. Brush It Out
Use an old toothbrush to scrub the stain gently.
7. Wash as Usual
Throw the garment into the washing machine and run a regular cycle.
8. Air Dry
After washing, air dry the item to ensure the stain is fully removed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Never use hot water. It can set the stain further.
- Avoid bar soaps. They can leave a residue.
- Do not rub harshly. It can spread the stain or damage the fabric.
Recommended Stain Removers
- Dawn Dish Soap
- Shout Stain Remover
- OxiClean
Conclusion
Removing lipstick stains from clothes after they’ve dried can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. The key is to act quickly and use the right tools. With some patience and attention to detail, you can get rid of that pesky stain and make your garment look as good as new.
If you found this article helpful, you may also be interested in How to get-rid-of-dark-lips.
Happy cleaning!
