How to Remove Lipstick Stains From Sweaters in a Snap
Erika Marie is a fashion and beauty writer as well…
When you accidentally get lipstick on your favorite sweater, it can be a total bummer. But don’t worry—you can easily remove that pesky mark with the right supplies and knowledge. From store-bought cleaners to everyday household items, removing lipstick from clothing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. So before tossing that beloved sweater into the trash, try these steps to see if you can help restore it to its original condition.
Do a patch test first.
First, start by dabbing a bit of cold water onto the affected area with a soft cloth or paper towel. This will help loosen up the lipstick so you can easily remove it.
Before using any cleaning method, you’ll want to do a patch test. A patch test involves using a small amount of cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of your sweater, such as an inside seam, to ensure that it does not damage the fabric. You can confidently move forward with full-on stain removal if the patch test passes.
Method 1: Alcohol
One way to remove lipstick from a sweater is to use alcohol. You can either use isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol. Dab a cotton ball in the alcohol and then rub it onto the lipstick stain. The alcohol will help to break down the lipstick, making it easier to remove. You may need to repeat this process a few times to remove the stain.
Method 2: Stain Remover
Another option is to use a stain remover. There are a variety of stain removers on the market that you can use on clothing. Be sure to read the labels to find one safe to use on delicate fabrics like wool. Apply the stain remover to the lipstick stain, and then wash the sweater according to the care instructions.
Method 3: Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent is also helpful for getting lipstick stains out of clothes. Start by soaking the stained area of the sweater in warm water and detergent for about 15 minutes before washing with a regular laundry wash cycle. This can help break up the stain and make it easier to remove during the wash cycle.
For tougher stains, try using a toothbrush and scrubbing the affected area with a mixture of detergent and baking soda. This will help lift any remaining residue from the fabric fibers without damaging them.
Method 4: WD-40
If the above methods don’t work, you can use WD-40. Yes, the same WD-40 you use to oil your door hinges can also remove lipstick stains!
First, make sure the stain is as fresh as possible. Blot any excess lipstick with a paper towel before spraying some WD-40 onto the spot.
Next, make sure you do a patch test in an inconspicuous area of the garment. Once complete, spray some WD-40 directly on the affected area. Allow this to sit for a few minutes, and then blot with a clean paper towel. Do not rub, as this could cause further damage and spread the stain around more than it already is. Afterward, launder your sweater as usual.
Wrapping Up
With a few simple tips, you can successfully remove lipstick from your sweater without causing any damage. So next time you accidentally get lipstick on your sweater, don’t panic – follow these steps, and your garment will look new!
Whether you use a commercial stain remover, laundry detergent solution, or one of the other options mentioned above, following these steps will help you get the job done quickly and effectively.
Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of your garment first and work gently. If all else fails, contact a professional dry cleaner with the experience and expertise to remove the stain.
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Erika Marie is a fashion and beauty writer as well as a hardcore vintage clothing enthusiast. In her free time, she can be found thrifting for hidden gems to add to her collection.