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How to Get Lipstick Stains Out

Wax, oil, and pigment — dab with rubbing alcohol, then degrease.

Quick answer

Fresh Lipstick on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Blot off excess — do not rub.
  2. Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain with a clean cloth.
  3. Rinse, then rub in liquid dish soap.
  4. Launder per the care label.

Don’t do this

  • Do not use alcohol on acetate, triacetate, modacrylic, or acrylic fabrics.

Sources: Who What Wear; WonderHowTo

For dried stains or other materials, use the lookup tool below.

Look up Lipstick on your material

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Lipstick on specific materials

Lipstick on CottonFresh & dried steps Lipstick on LinenFresh & dried steps Lipstick on PolyesterFresh & dried steps Lipstick on NylonFresh & dried steps Lipstick on SilkFresh & dried steps Lipstick on WoolFresh & dried steps Lipstick on DenimFresh & dried steps Lipstick on LeatherFresh & dried steps Lipstick on SuedeFresh & dried steps Lipstick on Upholstery fabricFresh & dried steps Lipstick on Carpet/rugFresh & dried steps Lipstick on WoodFresh & dried steps Lipstick on Stainless steelFresh & dried steps Lipstick on Stone/marbleFresh & dried steps Lipstick on Plastic/laminateFresh & dried steps

Frequently asked questions

Why alcohol for lipstick?

Alcohol dissolves the waxy, oily base so the pigment can lift out. Follow with dish soap to remove the grease.

Can I just use makeup remover?

Makeup remover works on skin, but for fabric the documented method is rubbing alcohol followed by dish soap and laundering.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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