Winter Coat Care: Removing Makeup Stains

Makeup stains on winter coats can be a pain to remove, especially if they're made from fabric that grips onto the product. However, there are several methods you can use to tackle these stains. One option is to use a stain remover and a good-quality detergent. Alternatively, you can try cleansing water or tissues, micellar water, or even high-proof vodka. It's important to avoid scrubbing or using hot water, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric and cause it to bleed. Instead, opt for cold water and gently dab at the stain.

Characteristics of Removing Makeup Stains from a Winter Coat

Use micellar water or cleansing water on a cotton pad to wipe off stained areas

Micellar water or cleansing water on a cotton pad can be used to wipe off stained areas on your winter coat. This method is especially useful for removing makeup stains from padded jackets, which are not easy to wash or dry-clean. The makeup stains on these jackets are oily and won't come off easily with regular detergent, so using cleansing water is an effective solution.

To use this method, wet a thick cotton pad with micellar water or cleansing water and wipe off the areas where the makeup is present. It is important to wipe lightly without rubbing too hard to avoid damaging the fabric. This method is preferred over using cleansing cream, as it may leave stains on the fabric.

If you don't have micellar water or cleansing water, you can also use oil-free makeup remover wipes or cotton swabs. Apply the liquid makeup remover gently to the stained area and then dab at it. This method is particularly useful for removing waterproof makeup products like mascara.

Avoid hot water and scrubbing, as this pushes the stain deeper into the fabric

When removing makeup stains from a winter coat, it's important to avoid using hot water and scrubbing. This is because the stain will be pushed deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Instead, opt for cold water and a gentle approach.

If you've spilled a semi-liquid or concealer product on your coat, start by applying a pre-wash stain remover. You can also add a drop of dish soap to help break down the grease. Work the stain remover or liquid detergent into the stain with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. Avoid the temptation to scrub, as this will only push the stain further into the fabric. Allow the product to sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes.

For dry powder stains, use a lint roller to remove as much of the product as possible without wiping or rubbing, as this can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibres.

After treating the stain, wash your coat in the hottest water suitable for the fabric, as advised by its care label. Be sure to check the garment for any remaining stains before drying. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process or try using a different product.

It's worth noting that some sources recommend using warm or hot water to remove stubborn stains, but this should be done with caution. If you do use hot water, avoid scrubbing the fabric, as this can damage the coat's fibres and push the stain deeper into the material. Instead, opt for a gentle cycle on your washing machine and a heavy-duty detergent to effectively remove the stain.

Use a stain remover or liquid detergent and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes

When removing makeup stains from your winter coat, it's important to be gentle and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the fabric. Instead, you should pretreat the stain with a stain remover or liquid detergent and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes. This will help loosen the oils in the stain and make it easier to remove. You can use a product like Shout, Puracy, or Oxiclean Max Force, which are all effective stain removers. Alternatively, a good-quality liquid detergent, such as Tide Hygienic Clean Laundry Detergent or Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry Detergent, will also do the trick.

To apply the stain remover or liquid detergent, you can use your finger or a soft-bristled brush. Work the product into the stained area gently, making sure to cover the entire spot. If you're using a powdered detergent, mix it with water to form a paste before applying it to the stain. Once you've applied the product, let it sit for at least 15 minutes. The longer it sits, the better, as this gives the enzymes in the stain remover more time to break down the stain.

While you're waiting, you can prepare the next step of the process. Check the care label of your winter coat to determine the hottest water temperature it can be washed in. It's important to use the hottest water that's suitable for the fabric, as this will help remove the stain more effectively. If your coat is made of a delicate fabric, you may need to use a perm press or gentle cycle when washing it.

After the stain remover or liquid detergent has sat for at least 15 minutes, it's time to wash your coat. Use the hottest water recommended for the fabric and add detergent or an all-fabric bleach to the wash to help remove any remaining colour in the stain. Gently scrub the stained area with a soft-bristled brush, being careful not to damage the fabric. Then, wash the coat as usual in the washing machine using the appropriate cycle for the fabric.

Before drying your coat, be sure to check the garment for any remaining stains. It's important to remove all detergent residue from the stained area before drying, as this can attract dirt and dust while the fabric is still damp. If the stain is no longer visible, you can dry your coat according to the care instructions. However, if the stain is still there, you may need to repeat the process or consult a professional dry cleaner.

Wash with a heavy-duty detergent in the hottest water suitable for the fabric

When removing makeup stains from a winter coat, it is important to use a heavy-duty detergent in the hottest water that is suitable for the fabric. Heavy-duty detergents, such as Tide or Persil, contain adequate enzymes to remove the stain.

Before washing the coat, it is recommended to pre-treat the stain with a stain remover to help loosen the oils in the stain. You can use a pre-wash stain remover solution or a liquid detergent. Work the stain remover or liquid detergent into the spot using your fingers or a soft-bristled brush.

Once the stain remover or detergent has been applied, allow it to sit on the fabric for at least 15 minutes. This will give the solution time to work on the stain. After the solution has been applied and allowed to sit, scrub the stain lightly with a soft-bristled brush.

It is important to note that you should never put a garment in a machine dryer before the stain is completely removed. If there is still detergent residue on the coat, it can attract dirt and dust while it is still damp. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all detergent residue is removed before drying.

After pre-treating and scrubbing the stain, wash the coat in the hottest water suitable for the fabric, as advised by its care label. Use a heavy-duty detergent and an all-fabric bleach to remove any remaining colour in the stain. Check the garment for any remaining stains before drying. If the stain is still visible, it may be necessary to repeat the process or try a different method.

Repeat if necessary, and dry with a towel

If the makeup stain on your winter coat is still visible after washing, you may need to repeat the stain removal process. The steps you take will depend on the type of makeup and the fabric of your coat.

For semi-liquid and concealer stains, apply a pre-wash stain remover. For liquid foundation stains, add a drop of dish soap to the stain. Work the stain remover or liquid detergent into the fabric using your finger or a soft-bristled brush. You can use a heavy-duty liquid detergent or make a paste from powdered detergent and water.

Let the stain remover or cleaning solution sit on the fabric for at least 15 minutes. Then, lightly scrub the stain with a soft-bristled brush. Wash the coat in the hottest water suitable for the fabric, as advised by its care label. Use detergent or an all-fabric bleach to remove any remaining colour.

Check the coat for any remaining stains before drying. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process. If you are using a washing machine, try a warmer temperature setting.

If you are using cleansing water or cleansing tissues to remove makeup stains from a padded jacket, lightly wipe the area to avoid damaging the fabric. After removing the stain, dry the coat with a towel.

Frequently asked questions