How to Remove Lipstick Stains: Expert-Tested Methods That Work

You’ve probably had that panic moment, trying to get lipstick marks off your favorite shirt after a smudge. Lipstick stains are among the most challenging to remove, as they embed colored oils and waxes deeply into fabric fibers.

These solvent-based stains mix waxes, oils, and dyes to create a tough cleaning challenge. Fresh lipstick marks are substantially easier to remove than old, set-in stains. Expert testing shows that dish soap works best to break down the greasy elements of lipstick, and soaking items overnight yields the best results. Learning the proper removal techniques can save your garments from permanent damage.

This guide walks you through proven methods to remove lipstick stains from various fabric types. Delicate materials like silk and wool need special treatment, but even dried stains can often be rescued. These expert-tested techniques will help protect your clothes and give you peace of mind.

Understand the Science Behind Lipstick Stains

Lipstick stains are challenging due to their unique chemical composition, which is comprised of oils, waxes, and pigments. Understanding this helps remove lipstick stains more effectively with the right cleaning approach for each fabric.

1. Why does lipstick stick to fabric

Your favorite lipstick is a colored stick of oil and wax that’s great for your lips but not so great for your clothes. Hayden Hill says lipsticks are “colored oil or wax” that creates two problems simultaneously. You’ll need to address both issues when a stain occurs. Even a lipstick stain that peels off can leave behind residue.

These stains are particularly challenging due to their composition. Grove.co points out that “almost all lipstick stains are solvent-based, made with waxes, oils, and dyes, which are all challenging substances when it comes to removing them from fabric.” This combination of three harsh elements makes a stain that needs special attention.

The pigments in lipstick bind to the fibers of your clothes. Tide scientist Kim Romine explains that lipstick is similar to a solid grease that acts like a glue, binding numerous colored pigments together. That’s why a regular wash won’t remove these stains.

2. Types of lipstick: matte, gloss, long-wear

Different types of lipstick leave behind distinct kinds of stains, each requiring a specific approach for removal depending on their texture, oil content, pigment levels, and how deeply they penetrate the fabric.

• Matte lipsticks have more wax and less oil. The stains are harder to remove, but don’t spread much. Their high pigment levels create deeper stains that need extra work.
• Cream lipsticks are oilier, leaving greasy marks that easily spread into fabric. These stains tend to spread more, but can penetrate deeper into your clothes.
• Gloss lipsticks pack the most moisture and shine boosters. YSL Beauty mentions that glosses “can be sticky and transfer easily.” These stains spread wider but stay more on the surface, making them easier to treat with degreasers.
• Long-wear lipsticks are the toughest to remove. NYX Cosmetics claims to provide a wash of color that lasts for hours with minimal fading. These stains resist standard cleaning methods.

Grove.co‘s tests found that matte cream, gloss, and long-wear lipsticks leave different marks on the fabric. You may need different cleaning approaches depending on the type of lipstick.

2. How fabric type affects stain removal

The material of your fabric significantly affects how lipstick stains are set and how easily they can be removed. The Spruce says, “Different fabrics react differently to lipstick stains. Delicate and porous fabrics, such as silk or chiffon, are more susceptible to absorbing the oils and pigments in lipstick, making stains more difficult to remove”. Even a lipstick stain peeling off the surface can hide deeper residue in sensitive fabrics.

Grove.co‘s tests show that dish soap works best on synthetic blends (such as polyester, nylon, and spandex), pure polyester, and cashmere. Cotton doesn’t respond as well and might keep a greasy mark.

Temperature also plays a vital role. The Spruce notes, “Hot water liquifies oils, fats, and waxes, releasing them from the fibers more easily.” Use water as hot as the fabric can tolerate, but avoid damaging your clothes.

Some cleaning products can ruin certain fabrics. The Smithsonian warns that “Acetone (nail polish remover) and amyl acetate are effective in removing lipstick… However, these will dissolve cellulose triacetate fabrics (including the linings of ties) into a plastic pulp!”

Home Stuff Works suggests that identifying the stained material is the first step in removing lipstick stains. This knowledge helps you choose the proper cleaning method that is effective and safe for your clothes.

Check the Fabric Before You Start

Before removing lipstick stains from clothes, check the fabric type. Each material requires a specific cleaning method, and using the wrong approach can damage your garment irreparably.

1. How to read care labels

Care labels indicate the proper way to clean your stained clothes. Most clothes come with two tags; one shows the brand and size, while the other displays care instructions using universal laundry symbols.

These symbols tell you everything about garment care:

• The washtub symbol indicates how to wash garments safely, including the recommended water temperature and handwashing method.
• The square symbol indicates how to dry clothes properly, such as tumble drying, line drying, or flat drying.
• The triangle symbol guides using bleach or other whitening products when cleaning.
• The iron symbol indicates how to iron the garment, including the appropriate use of heat and steam.
• The circle symbol provides instructions for dry cleaning, indicating whether it is safe or should be avoided.

The circle symbol is most important for lipstick stain removal because it indicates whether professional dry cleaning is the best option. A plain circle indicates that you should have it professionally dry-cleaned. A circle with an “X” indicates that dry cleaning will not work.

It also helps identify any “Do Not Wash” symbols (typically a crossed-out washtub). This means you cannot use water on the fabric at all. This knowledge helps you tackle lipstick stains effectively.

2. Fabrics that need dry cleaning

Some fabrics require professional cleaning when they are stained with lipstick. Dry cleaning experts advise, “Don’t attempt to remove lipstick at home on anything labeled’ dry clean only.” These items require specialized products that only professional cleaners can use to remove lipstick without damaging the fabric.

Professional cleaners should handle these fabrics:

• Viscose (unless specifically marked washable)
• Polyamide blends
• Manufactured pleated items (where pleats aren’t sewn in)
• Structured items with padding or interfacing (like blazers)
• Suede labeled “Not Washable”
• Leather labeled “Not Washable”
• Fur with skin
• Vintage fur

Silk needs special care, too. One source states, “Silk is easily damaged, so it’s best to avoid cleaning a silk blouse with harsh stain removers.” Expensive or beloved silk items with lipstick marks should be taken directly to a professional dry cleaner.

3. What not to use on delicate materials

Some treatments can permanently damage your clothes, even if they are washable at home. Never trust popular advice about using hairspray or alcohol on lipstick stains. Professional cleaners have seen too many beautiful garments ruined by attempts at removing hairspray stains.

Chlorine bleach destroys silk and wool. It breaks down natural fibers and makes fabric tear easily. Instead, use stain removers specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

Stay away from these harmful practices on delicate fabrics:

• Using hot or warm water can set lipstick stains permanently, making them harder to remove from delicate fabrics later.
• Rubbing stains forces lipstick deeper into the fibers, potentially damaging delicate fabrics and making stain removal much more difficult.
• Excessive use of stain remover can weaken delicate materials, causing discoloration or fabric damage instead of helping to remove lipstick stains.
• Applying soap directly to fresh stains can spread the lipstick further and result in stubborn marks that are difficult to remove.
• Mixing different stain removal products can create harmful chemical reactions, which may damage or discolor delicate garments beyond repair.

Test any stain removal method on a hidden spot first. Stop immediately and consider professional cleaning if you notice any damage or color changes.

Professional cleaners offer the safest solution when you’re unsure about fabric care or dealing with stubborn lipstick stains on valuable clothes.

Best Methods for Machine-Washable Fabrics

After spotting machine-washable fabrics, you can remove lipstick stains from your clothing with several proven methods. Dish soap stands out as the champion among household cleaners for washable fabrics.

1. Using dish soap and warm water

Dish soap works remarkably well on lipstick stains due to its grease-fighting properties. Martha Stewart advises that this method works best when you tackle those stains immediately.

Here’s how to get rid of lipstick stains with dish soap:

• Use a dull-edged knife to scrape off extra lipstick without pushing it deeper into the fabric
• Put about one teaspoon of liquid dish soap on both sides of the stain
• Let the soap sit for 30 minutes without touching it
• Mix another teaspoon of dish soap with warm water in a bowl
• Soak the garment thoroughly for at least an hour; you’ll get better results if you leave it overnight

The secret to success is giving it enough time to soak. Clothesline recommends soaking for at least 60 minutes, and Whirlpool notes that “an overnight soak is ideal for removing lipstick stains.” This long soak helps break down lipstick’s stubborn, oily, and pigmented components.

2. When to use baking soda or vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar make a powerful natural cleaning duo that can help if dish soap isn’t doing the trick.

The baking soda method is simple:

• Apply baking soda directly to the lipstick stain to gently break down the color and oil.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub baking soda into the fabric, avoiding damage to the delicate fibers.
• Add three to four drops of white vinegar to activate the baking soda and help lift the lipstick stain.
• Watch for the fizzing reaction; this chemical process helps loosen and lift the lipstick from the fabric’s surface.
• Use a clean cotton ball to gently blot the area, absorbing the stain and cleaning mixture without rubbing.

White vinegar can also tackle lipstick stains. The Spruce suggests using a cotton ball to dab vinegar on the spot instead of rubbing it. Grove.co found that vinegar worked great on cashmere.

Rubbing alcohol offers another option. Just dab; never rub the stain with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol until the lipstick transfers over. Switch to a fresh cotton ball once it picks up too much color.

3. How to use a soft brush without damaging fabric

Your brushing technique is crucial in removing stains without damaging your clothes, regardless of your chosen cleaning solution. Martha Stewart’s method suggests using a soft-bristle brush on the stain after soaking. Remember to work from the edges toward the middle of the stain so it doesn’t spread further.

Clothesline stresses being gentle: “Avoid rubbing the stain, as this spreads the lipstick particles deeper into the fabric fibers.” Try pressing down and lifting straight up with your brush or cotton ball, rather than dragging it across the fabric.

Be sure to rinse out all cleaning products thoroughly before adding them to the washing machine. Check the care label and use the hottest water that is safe for your fabric; hot water helps dissolve oils and waxes more effectively.

Add ½ cup of baking soda to your wash load as an extra boost for white cotton items.

How to Remove Lipstick from Delicate or White Clothes

Delicate fabrics, such as silk, wool, and cashmere, require special care to remove lipstick stains without causing permanent damage. These precious textiles need gentler approaches than machine-washable materials. You must strike a balance between effective stain removal and fabric preservation.

1. Safe methods for silk, wool, and cashmere

Silk creates a unique challenge as it “is easily damaged, so it’s out of the question to clean a silk blouse with harsh stain removers.” Here’s how to safely remove lipstick stains from silk:

• Start with transparent or masking tape, lay it over the stain, smooth it down, and quickly pull it off. Do this several times to lift surface pigment.
• Use a makeup remover, but test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it’s safe for the fabric.
• Dab talcum powder or cornflour lightly on any leftover residue to help absorb oil.
• Lastly, a dry cleaning solvent, such as K2R, is applied to a soft cloth, and then a dry spotter, such as Kleenrite, is used.

Woolmark recommends gently dabbing from the edge of the stain with a cloth soaked in white spirit or a spot-cleaning spray for wool and cashmere. Press with an absorbent cloth to absorb excess solvent before washing with a Woolmark-approved detergent.

Stubborn lipstick stains on cashmere may require just one drop of vegetable glycerine on the stain. Rub well to allow the glycerine to penetrate. Leave for about an hour. After that, wash using a “wool cycle” with reduced spinning (maximum 600 rpm).

2. How to remove lipstick stains from white clothes

Lipstick stains appear more on white garments, so they need extra care. Oxygen bleach works great for white cotton fabrics. Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is safe for any white, colored, or print materials.”

To treat white clothing:

• Mix oxygen-based bleach with cool water, following the package instructions to ensure the solution has the correct strength.
• Submerge the stained white garment completely in the solution, ensuring the entire stained area is fully immersed.
• Let the item soak for at least eight hours, giving the oxygen bleach enough time to lift the stain.
• If the lipstick stain remains, create a fresh oxygen bleach solution and repeat the soaking process for better results.

Rubbing alcohol provides an alternative option for cleaning white items. “Moisten a clean white cloth with rubbing alcohol, blot the stain with alcohol to remove the lipstick, and rinse with water.” This method works quickly and dries fast so you won’t see any wet spots.

3. Avoiding discoloration and fabric damage

Safety comes first during any treatment. “Always test any stain removal method on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it won’t cause harm.” This simple check prevents damage to your favorite clothes, especially when dealing with a lipstick stain on white clothes, where discoloration is more noticeable.

Additionally, it is crucial to avoid machine-drying delicate fabrics after treating stains. “Do not dry the garment in a dryer because the heat will set any remnants that may not be visible when the silk is wet.” Don’t iron until the stain is completely gone.

Very valuable items may require professional help, especially if you are unsure about removing the stain yourself or if the garment is expensive. Tell the cleaners about the lipstick stain so they can use the correct treatment methods.

Note that enzyme detergents, while great for many stains, should “not be used on protein fibers, such as silk, wool, cashmere, or angora.” These natural materials can get damaged.

How to remove lipstick stains from clothes after drying

A lipstick stain you find days later might seem impossible to remove. The good news is that you can still remove dried lipstick marks with specific techniques that break down and lift these tough stains.

1. Why are dried stains more challenging to treat

Dried lipstick stains are more difficult to remove because the oils penetrate deeply into the fabric fibers. Maytag explains, “Dried lipstick is more difficult to remove from clothing as the oils have had time to set into the fabric.” When lipstick dries, its waxy parts harden, and the pigments bond tightly with the fabric.

These oil-based pigments don’t respond well to regular water-based cleaning. The stain becomes more stubborn the longer it remains, and regular washing may not be enough to remove it.

2. Step-by-step for reactivating and lifting old stains

Here’s how you can remove dried lipstick stains:

(i) Apply a Pre-Treatment

Dab nail polish remover (acetone-based) or white vinegar directly on the stain. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the area in circular motions gently. It loosens up lipstick pigments and helps break down waxy residue.

(ii) Rinse with Rubbing Alcohol

Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and blot the stained area. You’ll notice color transferring onto the cotton. Repeat until the fabric stops releasing pigment. Alcohol is excellent at dissolving oils and cosmetic dyes.

(iii) Create a Cleaning Paste

Mix white vinegar and baking soda directly on the stain. The fizzy reaction helps lift stubborn pigments from the fibers of the fabric. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing gently and rinsing with cool water.

(iv) Soak Overnight

Fill a basin with warm water and add a bit of your favorite liquid detergent. Let the stained clothing soak overnight. This extended exposure helps break down lipstick components, including oils, waxes, and coloring agents.

(v) Wash Normally

Complete the process by washing the garment in the warmest water permitted by the care label. Use a strong detergent. Check the stain before drying; heat from the dryer can permanently set any leftover residue into the fabric.

Small circular dabbing motions work better than scrubbing, which can push stains deeper into the fabric. If you’re trying to remove lipstick stains from clothes after they’ve dried, this technique becomes even more crucial; scrubbing can worsen set stains. Heat from the dryer will set any remaining lipstick permanently, so avoid drying if stains are still visible.

Natural and No-Wash Lipstick Removal Options

Lipstick stains can be tricky when you can’t wash your clothes immediately. The good news? You have several no-wash solutions that can rescue your clothing in a pinch, plus some natural ways to get lipstick off your lips.

1. How to remove lipstick stains from clothes without washing

A lipstick stain emergency away from home doesn’t have to ruin your day. These quick fixes can help:

Hairspray does wonders on liquid foundation, liquid lipstick, and self-tanner. Begin by conducting a spot test to check for discoloration. Spray the stain directly and focus on the affected area. Strong-hold hairspray works best since its chemicals effectively grab makeup particles.

Makeup removers can tackle fresh lipstick stains before they set into the fabric. Just dab some oil-free, non-flammable makeup remover wipes on the stain and launder it later.

Hand sanitizer can be your unexpected hero in these situations. The alcohol in it breaks down the oils in lipstick on fabric, making it a quick and effective fix.

2. Using makeup remover wipes or vinegar

Makeup remover wipes are ideal for quickly treating lipstick stains. Grove.co‘s testing showed that vinegar ranked second most effective among lipstick stain removal methods.

Here’s the quickest way to use vinegar:

• Apply vinegar to a small, hidden fabric area to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or weaken the material over time.
• Pour enough plain white vinegar onto a cotton ball so that it becomes saturated, but avoid over-soaking to prevent a dripping mess.
• Press the cotton ball on the stain using soft blotting motions; rubbing can worsen the situation by spreading the lipstick.
• Use a cloth soaked in cool water to gently blot the area, lifting any remaining vinegar and residue from the fabric.
• Set the fabric aside and let it air dry thoroughly; avoid using heat, as it may set in any remaining stains.

Makeup dissolver sprays can also do the trick: spray the stained spot, wait a few minutes, and then wipe it away.

3. How to remove lipstick from lips naturally

Natural oils are great at removing lipstick from lips without harsh chemicals:

Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) is impressive for stubborn lip color. Apply a small amount to your lips, wait 2-3 minutes, then gently wipe with a cotton pad. Board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner explains that petroleum “dissolves the makeup and removes it as it’s wiped off.”

Coconut, olive, or almond oil can cleanse and moisturize the skin. Put 3-4 drops on your lips, let them sit for about 2 minutes while the color melts away, then clean them off.

Celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey suggests mixing equal parts brown sugar, olive oil, and honey for those rigid long-wear formulas. She says, “Brown sugar provides exfoliation, while olive oil hydrates, and honey helps slide the makeup off the lips.”

Product Recommendation

Learning different ways to remove lipstick stains is helpful; specialized stain removal products make the job easier. These products are convenient and work well at different price points.

1. Budget: General Pencil Kiss Off Stain Remover ($7)

General Pencil Kiss Off Stain Remover delivers excellent results at an affordable price. This compact stick resembles a lip balm and fits perfectly in your purse or pocket. You can apply the solid formula to the stain, let it sit briefly, and then blot it away with a clean cloth.

This budget-friendly option stands out because its formula is specifically designed to target makeup stains. Many users say it works well on fresh marks and stubborn dried lipstick stains. The small size allows for precise application without wasting product on the surrounding fabric.

2. Mid Range: Stain Remover Pen On The Go Stain Remover ($24)

The Stain Remover Pen On The Go earns its mid-range price through versatility and ease of use. The pen’s precision tip delivers a stain-fighting solution exactly where you need it.

This option works well even when you can’t wash your clothes immediately. The formula breaks down lipstick’s waxy parts and holds the pigments until you can properly wash the item. The slim design fits easily into purses, desk drawers, or travel bags, allowing you to tackle stains quickly.

3. Premium: Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Remover ($37)

Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Remover is the premium choice for tough lipstick stains on your favorite clothes. The price might seem high, but this professional-grade formula proves its worth, especially with delicate fabrics that other removers might damage.

The product excels at removing dried and set-in lipstick stains. The non-toxic, biodegradable formula works without harsh chemicals that could harm your clothes or skin. It works great on white clothing, where lipstick stains show up the most, and provides professional results without the need for dry cleaning costs.

These specialized products work better than household remedies, regardless of which price point aligns with your budget.

Final Thoughts

Lipstick stains are challenging to clean due to their complex composition of oils, waxes, and pigments. The good news is you can save your favorite clothes from these marks with the right approach. Quick action works best; fresh stains come out much easier than dried ones.

Your fabric type decides the treatment method. Check care labels first before trying any cleaning technique. Dish soap works great on machine-washable fabrics. Silk and cashmere need a gentler touch to avoid damage. Dried stains require specialized methods to break down and lift the adhered pigments.

Makeup remover wipes or hand sanitizer can help with surprise lipstick marks when you’re out. You can also stock up on budget-friendly stain removers, such as General Pencil Kiss Off, or premium ones, like Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater, to make your stain-fighting job easier.

Patience is key when removing these stains. Stubborn marks might take several tries before they disappear. Notwithstanding, your clothes can look new again if you stick to these expert-tested methods. Note that heat from dryers or irons can permanently set any leftover stain, so wait until the mark is completely gone.

The science behind lipstick stains is relatively straightforward. These proven techniques will help you handle lipstick accidents without damaging your clothes.