We’ve all been there, and probably more than once. We put on our favorite Red Apple Lipstick's lipstick and by the end of the day, we notice that we’ve accidentally stained our favorite dress or even the kid’s clothes. Sigh.

Now you have to figure out how to get lipstick stains out.

Not to fear, lipstick-stained clothes probably aren't ruined. You can easily remove lipstick stain from clothing with a few simple products if you act quickly.

Here are some very effective ways to remove lipstick stains from just about any piece of clothing. Just remember, you want to take action asap in order for these methods to be as effective as possible.

4 Great & Easy Ways to Remove Lipstick Stains

We have 4 simple and easy methods for removing lipstick stains from clothes using products and household items that you likely have at hand.

Treat Lipstick Stains As An Oil Stain

Before trying any of these lipstick stain removal methods, know that all lipstick stains are treated as oil stains.

Always check the care label on the stained item. Test any products on an inconspicuous area of the clothing item whenever you’re unsure if they will work on the fabric, especially on delicate fabrics. You do not want to end up ruining your clothing or worsening the lipstick stain.

Synthetic fabrics are harder to remove lipstick stains from.

(Note: You may want to avoid these home remedies on "dry clean only" fabrics and just take them to the dry cleaners. They have special cleaning solutions for these fabric types.)

Avoid rubbing the stain. Dab or blot instead. However, on some occasions, you may have no choice but to rub; if so, do so very gently.

*Remove Excess Lipstick First*

The first step before trying any of the following methods is to remove any excess lipstick from your clothing item. Lipstick tends to be waxy, so it doesn’t absorb or spread right away into fabric. To prevent the lipstick from sinking further, remove any excess by scraping it off with a dull knife or a credit card. You can also apply a piece of tape directly onto the stain to help lift the lipstick from the fabric, then carefully peel it off.

1. Use Dish Soap to Remove a Lipstick Stain

This is my go-to for removing any kind of stain. I love Dawn, but any gentle liquid dish soap that works on grease will help, as lipsticks contain natural oils. Dish soap is also great for machine-washable clothing. Just think dish soap when you ask how to get lipstick stains out.

Once you have scraped away any excess, apply a bit of warm or hot water directly onto the stain, but leave the rest of the garment dry. Lipstick stains need warm or hot water because the oils in lipstick are best removed with heat.

Inserting a piece of cardboard can keep the stain from transferring to the back of the garment.

Then apply a couple of drops of dish soap to the stain. Gently dab the soap into the lipstick stain.

Let that sit for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Using a damp cloth, gently blot the stain with it. Rinse and gently blot again. Repeat until the stain has been removed. Then rinse and wash as normal.

2. Remove Using a Pre-Wash Stain Remover or Liquid Detergent as a Pre-Wash Treatment

Begin by first scraping off any excess lipstick with a dull knife.

Now, apply pre-wash stain remover or even your regular liquid detergent directly on the stain.

If using a stain remover, make sure it's safe for the fabric. Spray on both sides of the clothing where the lipstick stain is located. Follow the directions of the stain remover.

If using liquid detergent, let it sit for a few minutes after applying it.

Rinse with warm water. Blot or dab with a cloth, if needed, to help remove the stain.

3. How To Get Lipstick Stains Out Using a Mix of Lemon Juice & Baking Soda

Both baking soda and lemon juice work great together for removing stains, especially lipstick. The acidity in lemons helps break up the lipstick, while the baking soda removes it.

For this method, mix one tablespoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of lemon juice to form a paste.

Apply the paste directly onto the lipstick stain.

Allow it to sit for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, wash the clothing item as usual. Hang to dry in the sun.

If the stain is still visible after washing, you may repeat this method as necessary.

4. How To Get Lipstick Stains Out Using Rubbing Alcohol

Before using this method, always check that it will work on the fabric without damaging it. Do a small patch test in an unnoticeable area. While it can be effective, rubbing alcohol can be harsh on some fabrics.

Dampen a cotton ball with isopropyl alcohol. You may also use a clean white cloth if you don't have cotton balls on hand.

Next, blot the alcohol onto the lipstick stain. Do not rub.

Once you have removed the stain, rinse out the alcohol with cold water or use a clean cloth dampened with water to dab and wipe off the rubbing alcohol.

What to Do After Removing Lipstick Stains from Clothes

After removing lipstick stains, wash your clothing items as usual, using cold water to prevent any residual lipstick from setting into the fabric.

After washing, double-check to ensure the stain has been completely removed before placing it in the dryer. If the stain remains, avoid the dryer as the heat could cause the fabric to permanently absorb any remnants.

If the stain persists after washing, repeat the method or try another until you’re satisfied. If all else fails, take your clothing to the dry cleaner. Avoid trying dry-cleaning fluids at home, as they may contain potentially harmful chemicals if mishandled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lipstick stains be removed?

Yes! There are several methods to remove lipstick from clothes. The key is to take action as soon as possible. Find 4 easy lipstick stain remover methods in this article above.

How do you remove lipstick stains from clothes that have been washed and dried?

It is possible to remove lipstick from clothes that have been washed and dried. Try one of the following methods and rinse after:

• Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and dab on the affected area for about a minute.
• Apply acetone (nail polish remover) to the stain and scrub with an old toothbrush. Then rinse with rubbing alcohol and blot dry with a clean cloth.
• Apply petroleum jelly onto the stain and work it in with an old toothbrush or cloth.
• Apply liquid glycerin onto the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Can vinegar remove lipstick stains?

Yes, white vinegar can help remove lipstick stains from clothes. Simply apply it directly to the stained area using a cotton