Cosmetic Stains

Combating greasy and non-greasy stains…

Cosmetics come in two types greasy and non-greasy. Non greasy cosmetics include powdered makeup, eye shadow, blusher and similar items. Greasy cosmetics are lipstick, rouge, liquid makeup and mascara.

Cosmetic stains on your clothes usually don't ruin your garments. Generally, these stains can be removed from your clothing with just a little effort.

Cosmetics come in two types, greasy and non-greasy. Non- greasy cosmetics include powdered makeup, eye shadow, blusher and similar items. Greasy cosmetics are lipstick, rouge, liquid makeup and mascara.

To remove non-greasy cosmetic stains…

Dampen the stain with water first. Then, rub the area with a paste made of detergent granules and water. You also can use liquid detergent and water.

If the stain is from oily cosmetics; you should pre-treat the area with a pre-wash soil and stain remover.

Cleaning solvents…

Place the stain face down on paper towels. Sponge the back of the stain with a dry cleaning solvent such as Renuzit, Energine, Carbona or some other spot remover. You can buy these at drug stores and grocery stores, and sometimes in clothing and department stores.

As you sponge the back of the fabric, move the fabric to a clean area of the paper towel, frequently, so the towel will take out more of the color. Dampen the stain with water and work detergent into the stained area. Rinse and launder your garment. If the stain is still there, treat it with chlorine bleach. If, that's safe for the fabric. If the item is non-colorfast, use a bleach that's safe for colors.

Consult professionals…

For stains on suedes, leather garments and other valuable non washable items, have them professionally cleaned. It's safest not to try to remove stains from these garments at home. When you take the garment to the cleaners, point out the stain to the clerk.

For cosmetic stains on other dry clean-only items, a cleaning solvent or spot remover may be used. If in doubt about care for the fabric, check the label.

In emergency situations…

Non-greasy spots may be dabbed with club soda. The bubbling of the carbonated water will generally remove the stain. Don't over wet the spot, though. Follow the club soda dab, with a brisk rub using a clean, dry paper towel or handkerchief.

The Georgia Cooperative Extension Service does not endorse any of the items mentioned. There may be other products that will work equally as well. You may check labels or ask for such products where cleaning supplies are sold.

For more information on removing cosmetic stains; contact your local County Extension Office.