3 Ways to Remove Lipstick Stains, Including Martha's Favorite Method

Our founder's trick for removing lipstick stains uses a few common household ingredients.

While a bold lip is an easy way to round out any look, few wardrobe malfunctions are more frustrating than getting a swipe of lipstick on your favorite blouse. Once it's there, a lipstick smudge can feel next to impossible to get rid of. Luckily, Martha has a foolproof method for removing lipstick stains that works on everything from clothing to dinner napkins.

Meet the Expert

Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company

Related: How to Remove Every Common Holiday Stain

Materials

The materials you'll need depend on the cleaning method you choose.

• Dull-edged knife

• Eyedropper

• Dry solvent

• Soft-bristled brush

• Isopropyl alcohol

• Liquid dish soap

• Water

• Enzyme detergent (or regular detergent)
  

• Rubbing alcohol

• Cotton ball

• Hairspray

Warning

Do not use enzyme detergents on protein fibers, such as silk, wool, cashmere, or angora.

Martha's Method for Removing Lipstick Stains

Remove stubborn lipstick stains by following this method from Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook. Note: this method is only meant for washable items, so be sure to send any dry-clean only pieces out for their best chance at lipstick stain removal.

1. Use a dull-edged knife to remove excess lipstick.

2. Using an eyedropper, apply a dry solvent (such as mineral spirits or acetone) to the stain in a well-ventilated area.

3. Tap the solvent with a soft-bristled brush.

4. Apply isopropyl alcohol to flush the area and tamp. Repeat until all of the lipstick color is removed and let dry.

5. Combine 1 tablespoon of liquid soap and 9.5 ounces of water.

6. Pour it into a tiny spray bottle. Shake to combine.

7. Spray the diluted dishwashing soap solution onto the stain.

8. Treat the garment with an enzyme detergent.

9. Wash according to care instructions.
   

How to Remove Lipstick Stains With Rubbing Alcohol

For a quick fix, use rubbing alcohol to get rid of stubborn lipstick stains. "The rubbing alcohol not only takes care of the stain but also dries quickly so you’re not left with a wet spot where the stain was," says Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company.

1. Use a dull-edged knife to remove excess lipstick.

2. Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or clean cloth and dab (don't rub) the stain away. Repeat until the lipstick color is removed.

3. Wash according to care instructions.

How to Remove Lipstick Stains With Hairspray

Believe it or not, hairspray is also useful for removing lipstick stains, Mock says.

1. Spray the hairspray onto the stain. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

2. Dab the stain with a cloth dipped in warm water. Repeat until the lipstick color is removed.

3. Wash according to care instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lipstick stains permanent?

Lipstick stains aren't permanent, but the stain can be worsened by rubbing it with your hands or a cloth. Following proper removal methods will get rid of even the brightest and most stubborn stains.

What is the best remover for lipstick stains?

Treating the stain with alcohol or soap, followed by a cycle in the washing machine with detergent, will ensure the garment is lipstick-free and clean.

Can soap remove lipstick stains?

Liquid dish soap can remove lipstick stains. Since lipstick is oil-based, any grease-fighting soap is ideal.

Read the original article on Martha Stewart.