How do I remove insect repellent stains from earplugs?

Using rubbing alcohol, soap and water, or baking soda and vinegar are all effective ways to remove insect repellent stains from earplugs.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Insect repellent > Earplugs

Surprising Ways to Erase Insect Repellent Stains from Earplugs

Earplugs are a great way to block out unwanted noise and protect your ears when you’re out and about, but if you frequently use insect repellent near them, you may notice earplugs start to look dingy. Insect repellent stains can be difficult to remove from any material, but fortunately, there are some simple tricks for getting them out of earplugs safely.

Updated 04 Mar 2023

By Jacobim Mugabe

Using Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is one of the best ways to get rid of insect repellent stains from earplugs. Start by dampening a cotton ball or paper towel in some rubbing alcohol and running it across the stained area of the earplug. The alcohol will help to break down the repellent and make it easier to scrub off. Then take a soft-bristled toothbrush or an old toothbrush and lightly scrub the area until the stain is gone.

Soap and Water

If you don’t have access to rubbing alcohol, you can still try to remove insect repellent stains from earplugs using soap and water. Fill up a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Place the earplugs in the bowl and let them soak for 30 minutes. Once they're done soaking, take a toothbrush and gently scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the earplugs off with warm water and allow them to air dry.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Another effective solution for removing insect repellent stains from earplugs is baking soda and vinegar. Start by mixing equal parts baking soda and white vinegar in a bowl to form a paste. Then spread the paste over the stained area of earplug and let it sit for 15 minutes. Once the paste has set, take a soft-bristled toothbrush and scrub away the residue. Rinse the earplug off with warm water and allow it to air dry.

Conclusion

Insect repellent can easily get on earplugs and leave behind an unsightly stain. Fortunately, with a few simple ingredients like rubbing alcohol, dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar, you can easily remove the stains and get your earplugs looking good as new.

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