Easy Ways To Remove Makeup Stains From Your Coat

Makeup stains on coats and other clothing items can be a real headache, but there are several methods to remove them. The key is to act fast and treat the stain as soon as possible. Oil-based makeup stains, such as liquid foundation, lipstick, and mascara, are notoriously difficult to remove and usually require the use of oil-fighting products.

One method to remove liquid foundation stains from coats is to first scrape off any excess makeup and then apply shaving cream or a stain remover to the affected area. After letting it sit for a few minutes, gently rub the stain with a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth, and then rinse with cold water. For lipstick stains, gently blot the area with a cotton swab and then apply a mixture of dishwashing liquid and cold water. For mascara stains, gently scrape off any excess and then apply dish soap, gently rubbing it in with a soft-bristled brush before rinsing.

Other methods include using a mixture of liquid detergent, water, and nail polish remover for cream makeup stains, or applying alcohol to stubborn lipstick stains. For powder makeup stains, a hairdryer on a cool setting can be used to blow off the pigment, followed by blotting with a stain remover pen.

Remember to always check the care label of your coat and perform a spot test if necessary to avoid any damage to the fabric.

Removing liquid foundation stains

Step 1: Act Quickly

The golden rule for removing any makeup stain is to act fast. Liquid foundation can quickly soak into the fabric of your coat, so it's crucial to treat the stain as soon as possible to prevent it from setting in permanently.

Step 2: Scrape Off Excess Makeup

Use a dull knife or the edge of a credit card to gently scrape off any excess liquid foundation from the stained area. Be careful not to rub or spread the stain further.

Step 3: Apply a Stain Remover

There are a few different options you can use as a stain remover:

• Shaving Cream: Apply a generous amount of color-free shaving cream to the stain and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This will help break down the makeup particles.
• Dish Soap or Stain Remover: If you don't have shaving cream, you can use a grease-fighting dish soap or a commercial stain remover. Gently rub or blot the soap or remover onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Pour a few drops of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain and work it into the fabric with your fingers or a toothbrush.

Step 4: Rinse and Wash

After allowing the remover to sit, rinse the stained area with cold water. Then, launder your coat as usual in the washing machine. Check the care label on your coat to ensure it is safe to machine wash.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

If the stain persists, don't panic! Simply repeat the above steps until the stain is completely gone.

Bonus Tip: Prevent Future Stains

To prevent liquid foundation stains on your coat, consider wearing a scarf that can act as a barrier between your makeup and your coat collar. Alternatively, you can use a robe, cover, or napkin to protect your coat while getting ready.

Banishing lipstick stains

Lipstick stains can be a real nuisance, but they don't have to be permanent. Here are some methods to banish lipstick stains from your coat:

Blotting

Use a cotton swab or cotton ball to gently blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this may spread the stain.

Dishwashing Liquid and Water

Apply a mixture of dishwashing liquid and cold water to the stain and gently rub it in. Any grease-fighting dish soap will work well since lipstick is an oil-based stain. Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary.

Rubbing Alcohol

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and gently dab it onto the stain until it's gone. Be sure to treat the stain as soon as it happens.

Hairspray

Spray the hairspray onto the lipstick stain and allow it to sit for up to 15 minutes. Then, dip a clean cloth in warm water and wipe the hairspray and lipstick off. Wash the fabric as usual.

White Vinegar

Apply white vinegar directly to the affected area with a cotton ball and gently dab at the stain. Wash as usual.

Shaving Cream

Apply shaving cream to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently rub the shaving cream into the fabric. Rinse with cold water and wash the garment in the washing machine. Repeat the process if necessary.

Stain Remover

Begin by carefully scraping off any excess lipstick with a blunt knife or dull edge. Then, apply a pre-wash stain remover or a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain. Spray the remover on both sides of the stain and follow the guidelines on the product and garment label. Rinse the stain in warm water, making sure not to rub to avoid further damage. Wash the fabric as usual once all the stains have been removed.

Remember to always check the care label of your coat and test any products or methods in a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging the fabric.

Rescuing your coat from mascara mishaps

Mascara stains can be tricky to remove, especially if they've dried and set into the fabric of your coat. However, there are several methods you can try to rescue your coat from mascara mishaps. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive steps to help you remove those stubborn mascara stains:

Act Quickly

The golden rule for removing any makeup stain is to act swiftly. The longer a mascara stain sits on your coat, the harder it will be to remove it. So, as soon as you notice the mascara stain, don't procrastinate. Start the stain removal process as soon as possible.

Scrape Off Excess Mascara

Gently scrape off any excess mascara from the stained area. Use a dull knife or the edge of a credit card to gently lift away the excess product without rubbing it deeper into the fabric. This step will make it easier to treat the stain.

Choose a Stain Removal Method

There are several options for removing mascara stains:

• Dish Soap: Apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain and gently work it in with a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth. Rinse the area with cold water, then repeat the process if necessary.
• Makeup Remover or Makeup Wipe: Gently apply a small amount of makeup remover to the stain or use a makeup wipe to lift the mascara from the fabric.
• Shaving Cream: Apply shaving cream to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes to break down the mascara. Then, gently rub it in and rinse with cold water.
• Rubbing Alcohol: For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth or cotton ball and gently dab it onto the stain until it's removed.

Treat the Stain

Once you've chosen your preferred method, follow these steps:

• If using dish soap, gently rub it into the stain with a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth.
• If using makeup remover, gently apply it to the stain with a cloth or cotton ball.
• If using shaving cream, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the mascara, then gently rub it in.
• If using rubbing alcohol, dab it directly onto the stain until it's removed.

Rinse and Repeat

After treating the stain, rinse the area with cold water. If the stain is still visible, repeat the chosen method until it disappears.

Launder Your Coat

After successfully removing the mascara stain, launder your coat as usual. Follow the care instructions on the coat's label, and always check the stained area before drying. If any remnants of the stain remain, repeat the stain removal process.

Prevent Future Mishaps

To prevent mascara stains in the future, remember to store your makeup and clothing separately. Additionally, when applying makeup, consider wearing something over your clothes, such as a robe or a cover, to catch any stains.

DIY vs. commercial stain removers

When it comes to removing makeup stains, there are several options available, ranging from DIY solutions to commercial stain removers. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

DIY Stain Removers:

DIY stain removers utilise common household items such as dish soap, liquid detergent, shaving cream, and rubbing alcohol. These cost-effective solutions are often just as effective as commercial products. For example, lipstick stains, which are oil-based, can be removed by gently blotting the area with a cotton swab and then applying a mixture of dishwashing liquid and cold water. Similarly, a small amount of rubbing alcohol can be used to remove foundation stains.

Commercial Stain Removers:

Commercial stain removers offer a ready-made solution specifically designed for makeup stain removal. These products use enzymes or oxidation to break down tough stains. While they can be more expensive, they provide a targeted approach to spot removal. For instance, the Method Stain Remover, which features a plant-based formula, effectively removes various stains, including makeup, with minimal effort. Another popular option is the Shout Advanced Grease Busting Foam, which is easy to apply and performs well across different types of stains.

Factors to Consider:

When deciding between DIY and commercial stain removers, there are a few factors to keep in mind. DIY solutions are cost-effective and often easily accessible, as they use household items. However, they may require more elbow grease and time for effective removal. On the other hand, commercial stain removers offer convenience and targeted treatment, but they can be more expensive. Additionally, it is important to read the labels of commercial products to ensure their suitability for the fabric and stain type.

Both DIY and commercial stain removers have their advantages and disadvantages. DIY solutions are cost-effective and easily accessible, but they may require more effort and time. Commercial stain removers provide convenience and targeted treatment but can be more expensive. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, the type of stain, and the fabric that needs to be treated.

Stain removal techniques for different fabrics

When it comes to removing makeup stains from clothing, it's important to act fast. Makeup stains can be notoriously difficult to remove, but understanding the type of makeup and the fabric of your coat will help guide your approach. Here are some stain removal techniques for different fabrics:

Cotton, Polyester, and Other Sturdy Fabrics

For sturdy fabrics like cotton or polyester, you can be more aggressive with your stain removal techniques.

• For liquid foundation stains, start by scraping off any excess makeup with a dull knife or a credit card. Then, apply shaving cream or a stain remover to the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for about ten minutes before rinsing with cold water.
• For lipstick stains, gently blot the area with a cotton swab to remove excess product. Apply a mixture of dish soap and cold water to the stain, gently rub it in, and then rinse. For stubborn stains, you can also try using rubbing alcohol.
• For mascara stains, gently scrape off any excess with a credit card or dull knife. Apply dish soap to the stain, gently rub it in with a soft-bristled brush, and then rinse with cold water.
• For powder foundation, lightly brush off as much of the powder from the coat as possible. Then, pretreat with a stain remover or liquid laundry detergent before laundering using the hottest water safe for the fabric.

Silk, Lace, and Other Delicate Fabrics

Delicate fabrics like silk or lace require a more gentle approach to stain removal.

• For liquid foundation stains on delicate fabrics, pre-soak the fabric in cold water before treating with a mild detergent.
• For lipstick stains, blot the stain with a cloth soaked in cold water and vinegar.
• For mascara stains, use a mild detergent and gently blot the stain with a clean cloth, avoiding any vigorous rubbing.
• For powder foundation, lightly brush off the powder, then take the coat to a professional dry cleaner.

General Tips

• Always check the care label on your coat and follow any specific instructions.
• Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the stained area vigorously, as this can push the makeup deeper into the fabric.
• After treating the stain, launder your coat as usual and check the stained area before drying. If the stain persists, repeat the stain removal process.
• Store your makeup and coat separately to prevent future mishaps.

Frequently asked questions