How to Remove Lipstick Stains from Clothing: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Lipstick stains can be stubborn. Packed with pigment, oil, and wax, they often bond quickly to fabric—especially if they aren’t treated right away. But don’t worry. Whether the stain is fresh or set-in, this two-step method will help remove lipstick stains from nearly all types of clothing, safely and effectively.

What you’ll need:

Dish soap or liquid laundry detergent
Oil-free makeup remover or micellar water (optional, for stubborn stains)
Cold water
Clean white towel or cloth (for blotting)
Cotton pads or swabs (for applying makeup remover)
A dull-edged tool (like a spoon or pen cap) for pressing the stain
Soft-bristled brush (optional, for detergent application)

SKIP TO:

- Step-by-Step Instructions

- What is the Ink Stain Still Wont Budge?

Remove Lipstick or Lip Gloss Stains From Clothing.jpg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Blot and Scrape Gently

If the lipstick is fresh, gently scrape off any excess using a dull-edged tool like a spoon or butter knife. Be careful not to spread the stain further.

Then, blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to soak up as much lipstick as possible. Avoid rubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Apply Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent (Towel Blotting Method)

Use the towel blotting method to pull the stain out of the fabric:

Place a clean towel behind the stained area.
Apply a small amount of dish soap or liquid laundry detergent directly to the lipstick stain.
Using the back of a spoon, pen cap, or other rounded plastic tool, gently press and work the soap into the fabric. You should start to see the lipstick transferring onto the towel underneath.
Move the fabric to a clean area on the towel and repeat until progress stalls.

This method removes most lipstick stains. If color still remains, try the next step.

Step 3: Rinse with Cold Water

Once the lipstick stops transferring, rinse the area thoroughly with cold running water to flush out any remaining residue and soap.

Step 4: Apply Liquid Laundry Detergent (If Needed)

If there’s still a faint stain, apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the spot and gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.

Step 5: Wash Normally

Launder the garment on the coldest water setting. Avoid heat-drying until you’re sure the stain is gone—dryers can set any leftover pigment permanently.

Tip: Use old or disposable towels, as they may get permanently stained during the process.

What if the Lipstick Stain Still Won’t Budge?

If the stain persists after regular detergent, try using oil-free makeup remover or micellar water—they're designed to break down pigments, wax, and oils found in lipstick.

How to use:

Dab a small amount of makeup remover or micellar water on the stain using a cotton pad or cloth.
Let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
Place a towel behind the fabric, reapply a bit of dish soap, and repeat the towel blotting method from Step 2.
Rinse and wash again once the stain fades.

Always test the makeup remover on a hidden area of the fabric first to make sure it won’t cause discoloration.

Tip: Use old or disposable towels, as they may get permanently stained during the process.

Final Tips for Lipstick Stain Removal

1. Act Quickly
Lipstick contains oils and waxes that can bond with fabric over time. The sooner you treat the stain, the easier it will be to remove.

2. Blot, Don’t Rub
Always blot gently rather than rubbing. Rubbing can push the pigment deeper into the fibers and make the stain worse.

3. Repeat as Needed
Some lipstick stains—especially long-wear or matte formulas—may need multiple treatments. Repeating the steps is often more effective than using harsh chemicals.

4. Use Cold Water
Hot water can set wax and oil into fabric. Always rinse with cold water when treating lipstick stains.

5. Be Cautious with Delicates
Fabrics like silk, rayon, or wool may not tolerate detergent or makeup remover. When in doubt, take delicate items to a professional cleaner.

6. Test on a Hidden Area First
Before using any stain remover, makeup remover, or detergent, test it on an inside seam or hidden spot to make sure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.