Removing makeup stains from fabric can be tricky business unless you are aware of a few simple tricks. Anyone who has ever used nail polish knows it’s only a matter of time before the bottle of polish gets spilled on the carpet or furniture.
Eliminating those unwanted eyesores can be a constant, never-ending battle that will ultimately hurt your reputation. Knowing the best method for removing make-up stains can save you a lot of time, money, and customer complaints.
Makeup Removal Steps
Act quickly! Staining is influenced by many factors; and no carpet, upholstery, or fabric surface is completely stain proof.
Always read the instructions on any cleaning product and test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure no damage to the fabric, dye, or fibers.
Step 1: Scrape or blot excess. Gently scrape up semi-solids with a rounded spoon. Break up solids and vacuum.
Step 2: Apply a small amount of the solution to a white cloth (see below for solution details), and work in gently. Do not rub, working from the edges of the spill to the center. Allow to remain on the spill a few minutes. Be patient. Blot.
Step 3: Use the first agent as long as there is a transfer of the spill to the cloth. Be patient. Complete removal may require repeating the same step several times. Or, you may need to move to the next solution.
Step 4: Rinse the area with cold water when the spill is completely removed; blot with a dry cloth until all moisture is removed.
To minimize drying time, a dry, absorbent, cleaning compound may be used as a substitute.
Detergent Solution
Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.
Warm Water
Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.
Solvent
A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.
Call a Professional
Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question.