Lipstick Stain Removal

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NEW Method!

Motsenbocker's Lift Off #2 is a petroleum based, commercially and industrially proven formulation that can effectively remove such items as: oil stains, adhesives, bumper stickers, chewing gum, pencil marks, pitch/sap, contact paper, candle wax, creosote, crayons, price stickers, tar, lipstick, shoe polish, fresh oil based paint and petroleum based silicone. It can be used on carpets, fabrics, hardwood floors, metal, formica, exhaust fans, vinyl, plastic, barbecues, tools, tile and chains. The product works better than existing products; it works in the same reactionary time; it is safe on all surfaces (except styrene plastics); it costs the same or less than other products and it is safe for the user.

Old Method

Lipstick is a dye in an oily base. Therefore, a solvent based remover is the only type that will remove it. Water based or wet spotters will only spread and set the stain.

1. Rub in vegetable or mineral oil onto the affected areas and allow it to soak for 15 minutes.
2. Blot excess oils with an absorbent paper towel or terry cloth rags.
3. Then sponge in a solution of 50% ammonia with water (unless the fabric is silk or wool).
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and wring out.
5. Sponge remaining affected areas liberally with isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
6. Apply laundry pre treat and launder washables in hot water.
7. HOWEVER, a little lipstick contains a lot of dye in even a small particle. A VALUABLE PIECE OF ADVICE is to take your laundry to a professional with a stain removal expert at your local Laundromat or dry cleaners.

Note: Always test an inconspicuous area for colorfastness, etc. before treating the exposed area. Also note that certain stains are permanent.

For more cleaning and stain removal tips and hints, please visit our cleaning community forum where experts are ready to help answer your questions.

This article has been contributed in part by Michigan State University Extension