We’ve all been there — you put on your favorite top, apply your lipstick, and suddenly there’s a bright red or pink smudge staring back at you. Lipstick stains can feel like a nightmare, especially since they’re packed with oils, waxes, and pigments that cling tightly to fabric.
But don’t worry — knowing how to get lipstick out of clothes can save your outfit in minutes. With the right techniques (and a few common household products), you can lift even the toughest lipstick stains without a trace.
Why Lipstick Stains Are So Stubborn
Lipstick is designed to stay put — it’s long-lasting, smudge-resistant, and highly pigmented. That’s great for your lips, but not so great for fabric. The combination of oils, waxes, and synthetic dyes means the stain clings tightly to fibers, especially on cotton, polyester, or blends.
The key to removing it? Break down the oils first, then lift the pigment gently.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Lipstick Out of Clothes
1. Act Fast — Don’t Rub!
As soon as you spot the stain:
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Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing spreads the pigment and pushes it deeper.
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Use a clean cloth or paper towel to lift off any excess lipstick.
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If the stain is fresh, scrape off any residue gently with a spoon or dull knife.
2. Try Dish Soap for Fresh Lipstick Stains
Dish soap is your first line of defense — it cuts through grease and oil.
What you’ll need:
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A few drops of dishwashing liquid (like Dawn)
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Cold water
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A soft-bristled brush or cloth
Steps:
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Apply a drop of dish soap directly onto the stain.
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Work it in gently with your fingers or brush.
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Let it sit for 10 minutes.
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Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric to push the stain out.
Pro tip: Avoid hot water — it can “set” the stain, making it harder to remove.
3. Use Rubbing Alcohol for Set-In Stains
If dish soap doesn’t fully remove the mark, rubbing alcohol can help lift stubborn pigment.
Steps:
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Dampen a cotton ball or clean cloth with rubbing alcohol.
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Blot the stain — don’t scrub.
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Repeat until the color fades.
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Rinse and wash as usual.
Caution: Always do a spot test on an inconspicuous area, especially for delicate fabrics like silk or satin.
4. Try Hairspray or Makeup Remover
Hairspray and micellar water both break down makeup effectively.
For hairspray:
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Spray the stain lightly and let it sit for 5 minutes.
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Dab with a clean cloth until the stain lifts.
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Rinse with cold water.
For makeup remover:
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Apply micellar water or a makeup-removing wipe.
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Blot gently, rinse, then launder normally.
5. Treat Stubborn Stains with Oxygen-Based Bleach
If the stain refuses to budge, use oxygen bleach (like OxiClean or Vanish).
Steps:
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Mix according to package directions.
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Soak the stained garment for 1–2 hours.
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Wash in cold water and air dry.
Avoid using chlorine bleach, which can damage colors and delicate fabrics.
How to Get Lipstick Out of Delicate Fabrics
For delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or chiffon, skip harsh chemicals.
Use this gentle method:
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Mix a small amount of baby shampoo with cold water.
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Dab the mixture onto the stain using a soft cloth.
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Blot, don’t rub, until the stain lifts.
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Rinse gently and air dry flat.
If the stain persists, it’s best to take the garment to a professional dry cleaner.
Prevention Tips: Keep Lipstick Off Your Clothes
A few simple habits can help you avoid future disasters:
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Apply lipstick before getting dressed.
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Use a lip liner or setting spray to prevent smudging.
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Blot excess lipstick with a tissue after application.
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Keep a makeup wipe handy for quick fixes.
FAQs About Getting Lipstick Out of Clothes
1. Can lipstick stains come out completely?
Yes! With the right method — especially dish soap or rubbing alcohol — most lipstick stains can be removed completely.
2. Does hot water remove lipstick stains?
No. Hot water can set the stain. Always use cold water for best results.
3. Can I remove lipstick from white clothes?
Yes — use dish soap first, then follow with oxygen bleach for extra whitening power.
4. What’s the best stain remover for lipstick?
Dish soap, rubbing alcohol, micellar water, or oxygen bleach are all effective options.
5. How do I get lipstick out of dry-clean-only clothes?
Blot gently with a clean cloth and take it to a professional cleaner as soon as possible.
Conclusion: Save Your Outfit from Lipstick Mishaps
Lipstick on your clothes doesn’t have to mean disaster. Now that you know how to get lipstick out of clothes, you can handle smudges and stains like a pro.
From dish soap to rubbing alcohol, these quick fixes can rescue your wardrobe in minutes — without harsh chemicals or special tools.
