How to Remove Lipstick

The shiny oils in lipstick can be hard to remove from fabric.

The problem with lipstick is that it can easily be transferred to clothing with one simple touch. Lipstick is an oil-based product that tends to stain quite easily and must therefore be removed with a product made to combat grease. Depending on the color of the lipstick, removing a lipstick stain from clothing can be somewhat of a challenge and require multiple attempts.

Things You'll Need

• White cloth
• Rubbing alcohol
• Dishwashing liquid

Instructions

1. Check the garment affected by the lipstick to see if its label reads "Dry Clean Only." If so, take the garment to a professional cleaner to avoid any potential damage to the material.

2. Moisten a clean white cloth by pouring a small amount of rubbing alcohol on it. Blot the lipstick stain on the affected garment until the stain begins to lift.

3. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid, such as Dawn or Sunlight, to the stained area and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes.

4. Use a clean white cloth to gently rub the area, starting on the outside edges of the stain and working toward the middle.

5. Hand wash the garment in warm soapy water and rinse under cool running water. Hang the garment up to air-dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Ammonia can be used in place of rubbing alcohol, simply dip a Q-tip into the ammonia and rub it on the lipstick stain.

References

• Mrs. Clean USA: Lipstick Stain
• Professor's House: Removing Lipstick Stains