How to Get Makeup Out of Clothes - HumeShed (2025)

Getting makeup on your clothes can feel like a nightmare. Whether it’s foundation, lipstick, mascara, or powder, stains happen. Makeup stains are common because they often contain a mix of oils, pigments, and waxes, which can easily bind to fabrics and make removal tricky. But don’t panic. Learning how to get makeup out of clothes is simple if you act fast and use the right techniques. Picture this: you’re rushing to get ready, and just as you pull on your favourite shirt, a dab of foundation lands right on the fabric. It’s frustrating, but with the right steps, you can tackle the stain quickly and save your outfit.

This guide breaks down the best methods to tackle different types of makeup stains, from foundation to powder, so you can keep your favourite outfits looking flawless. Even delicate fabrics can often be saved with the right steps, so don’t lose hope if a stain seems tough to tackle. Plus, we’ll share extra tips and tricks to make stain removal a breeze, even for stubborn or old stains.

Here’s everything you need to know to save your clothes from makeup mishaps. Whether you’re dealing with foundation smudges, lipstick stains, or powder spills, we’ve got step-by-step solutions to tackle each type of stain effectively.

How to Remove Foundation Stains from Clothes

Foundation stains are tricky because they often contain oils and pigments. Follow these steps to remove them effectively:

Don’t rub the stain. Blot it gently with a clean cloth or tissue to avoid spreading it further.

Scrape off excess makeup. Use a spoon or blunt edge to lift any dried foundation without damaging the fabric.

Apply shaving cream. Yes, shaving cream works wonders! Dab a small amount on the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The foam breaks down the makeup, making it easier to remove.

Rinse with cold water. Gently rub the area with your fingers under running water. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain.

Use liquid laundry detergent. Apply a small drop of detergent directly onto the stain, work it in gently, and rinse well.

Repeat if needed. For stubborn stains, repeat the process or add a small amount of baking soda to the detergent for extra stain-fighting power.

Tip: For oil-based foundations, use dish soap instead of shaving cream to break down the oils effectively.

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How to Get Lipstick Out of Clothes

Lipstick stains can be stubborn due to their waxy and pigmented nature. Here’s what to do:

Freeze the stain. Place the garment in the freezer for 30 minutes to harden the lipstick. This makes removal much easier.

Scrape off excess. Use a spoon to gently remove the hardened residue without spreading it further.

Use rubbing alcohol. Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain with a cotton ball or cloth. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.

Apply dish soap. For tougher lipstick stains, apply a small amount of dish soap to break down the oils and wax.

Rinse and wash. Rinse under cold water and wash as usual with laundry detergent. Check the stain before drying; repeat if needed.

Important: Avoid using hot water; it can set the stain and make it nearly impossible to remove.

Bonus Tip: If rubbing alcohol isn’t available, try using a makeup remover wipe or micellar water.

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How to Remove Mascara and Eyeliner Stains

Mascara and eyeliner are usually oil-based or waterproof, so regular washing won’t cut it. Follow these steps:

Blot with makeup remover. Use an oil-free makeup remover and dab gently on the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this pushes the mascara deeper into the fabric.

Apply dish soap. Dish soap helps break down oils. Apply a small amount to the stained area and work it in with your fingers.

Let it sit for 5 minutes. Allow the soap to penetrate the stain before rinsing.

Rinse with cold water. Wash under running water until the stain begins to lift.

Wash in the machine. Launder the garment on a cold cycle with a quality detergent.

Check before drying. Make sure the stain is completely gone before placing the garment in the dryer. Heat will set any remaining residue.

Pro Tip: For waterproof mascara, rubbing alcohol or micellar water can help break down the formula more effectively.

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How to Get Powder Makeup Stains Out

Powdered makeup, like blush, eyeshadow, or setting powder, tends to sit on the surface of clothes. Here’s how to deal with it:

Shake off excess powder. Gently shake the garment or use a lint roller to remove loose powder without smudging it further.

Use sticky tape. Press sticky tape over the stain to lift more powder. Be gentle to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.

Blot with cold water. Use a damp cloth to blot the stain lightly. Avoid rubbing.

Apply dish soap. Mix dish soap with cold water and dab it onto the stain with a clean cloth.

Rinse thoroughly. Wash under cold water until the stain lifts completely.

Wash as usual. Launder the garment on a gentle cycle to remove any remaining residue.

Note: Avoid smudging powder stains further into the fabric by blotting instead of wiping.

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Tips for Removing Makeup Stains

No matter the type of makeup, these tips will help you avoid making stains worse:

Act fast: The quicker you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove.

Avoid heat: Heat sets stains, so always use cold water first.

Test cleaning solutions: Before applying alcohol or detergents, test on an inconspicuous area to ensure they won’t damage the fabric.

Use gentle dabbing motions: Never rub a stain, as it pushes the makeup deeper into the fabric.

Repeat if necessary: Tough stains may require a second or third treatment, so don’t give up too quickly.

Extra Tip: Keep a stain-removal pen or wipes on hand when you’re out and about. Quick action can prevent stains from setting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Makeup Stains

Even with the right techniques, certain mistakes can make makeup stains worse. Here’s what to avoid:

Rubbing the stain: Rubbing pushes the makeup deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Always blot gently instead.

Using hot water: Hot water sets stains, especially those containing oils and pigments. Stick to cold water for the best results.

Using bleach on delicate clothes: Bleach can damage fabrics like silk, satin, or lace. Use gentler alternatives like dish soap or baby shampoo instead.

FAQs About Getting Makeup Out of Clothes

How do I get makeup out of delicate fabrics like silk?
Blot the stain gently with rubbing alcohol or baby shampoo. Avoid excessive water and always test any product first to avoid damaging the fabric.

Can I use micellar water to remove makeup stains?
Yes! Micellar water works well on light stains like powder or foundation. Apply it with a cloth and blot gently until the stain lifts.

What if the makeup stain is old?
Old stains are tougher but not impossible. Pre-treat with a mix of dish soap and baking soda, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then wash in cold water.

Is makeup remover safe to use on clothes?
Yes, as long as it’s oil-free and tested on the fabric first. Oil-free formulas prevent the stain from worsening.

Can hairspray really remove makeup stains?
Surprisingly, yes! For lipstick or mascara stains, spray a little hairspray on the stain, let it sit for 5 minutes, and blot with a damp cloth. Rinse well afterward.

Final Thoughts

Makeup stains don’t have to ruin your clothes. By following these tips, you’ll know exactly how to get makeup out of clothes without stress. Whether it’s foundation, lipstick, or mascara, acting fast and using the right techniques will save the day.

Remember to avoid heat, test solutions on delicate fabrics, and repeat treatments for stubborn stains. With these methods in your toolkit, your wardrobe is safe from makeup mishaps.

Got any tried-and-tested tips for removing makeup stains? Share them in the comments below! Your advice could help someone save their favourite outfit.