Make-up can make you look amazing, but accidents happen in a flash. Before you know it, there’s foundation on your favorite blouse or a mascara stain on your new pants. Luckily, you don’t have to give up on those clothes right away! We’ll show you how to quickly and effectively remove different make-up stains from your clothing.
How do I get foundation out of my clothes?
Step 1: Remove excess foundation
Use a dull knife or the back of a spoon to gently scrape off any excess makeup from the fabric. This helps prevent the stain from sinking deeper into the material. For powder makeup, you can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to blow the powder off the fabric.
Step 2: Act fast with household solutions
Don't have a special stain remover? Just use products you already have at home:
- Makeup wipes: For fresh stains, you can gently dab with a makeup wipe.
- Liquid detergent: Mix some detergent with warm water. Apply it to the stain and let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Shaving foam: Apply a little shaving foam to the stain, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
Step 3: Specific stain removers for stubborn stains
For stubborn stains like lipstick or foundation, use a special stain remover. Dab the product onto the stain and follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
Step 4: Rinse and wash
After pre-treating, wash the garment in the washing machine on the warmest temperature that's safe for the fabric. Avoid the dryer until you're sure the stain is completely gone, since heat can set stains deeper into the fabric.
Here’s an extra tip to prevent makeup stains: use a setting spray and/or primer. This way, your makeup stays perfectly in place.
Different Types of Makeup Stains
Foundation Stains
Foundation stains, especially oil-based ones, can be stubborn. Start by gently removing any excess foundation with a spoon. Next, dab the stain with a cotton pad soaked in an oil-free makeup remover. Then, apply liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for ten minutes. Wash the garment in the washing machine at the warmest safe temperature.
Lipstick Stains
Lipstick stains are often brightly colored and contain oil, which makes them tough to remove. Apply a generous amount of shaving foam to the stain and let it sit for ten minutes. Then rinse with cold water. Still see a stain? Dab with a little dish soap and rinse again. If needed, wash the garment in the washing machine.
Mascara Stains
Mascara is often made of oil and wax, which means it can easily soak into fabric. Use a white cloth and gently dab to remove any excess mascara. Dip a cotton pad in makeup remover or alcohol and dab it onto the stain. Repeat this until the stain fades. Rinse with warm water and then wash the garment as usual.
Powder Makeup Stains (Blush, Bronzer)
Powder makeup can quickly show up on clothes, especially on dark fabrics. Use a hairdryer on the cool setting to blow the powder away. Next, make a solution of warm water and detergent. Gently dab this onto the stain until it disappears. Rinse the fabric with water and wash as usual in the washing machine.
Eyeliner Stains
Waterproof eyeliner can be really stubborn. Apply a stain remover directly to the spot and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then dab with a bit of dish soap and lukewarm water to help lift the stain. Rinse well and wash the garment on a regular wash cycle.
With the right treatment and products, you can remove foundation from clothing without much effort. Always remember to gently remove any excess makeup first and act quickly with a suitable stain remover. Every type of makeup stain needs its own approach, so choose the method that matches the stain, whether it’s foundation, lipstick, or mascara. Wash the garment at the right temperature and repeat if necessary. By following these steps, you’ll keep your favorite clothes free from makeup stains and looking as good as new!
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