What kind of detergent should I use?

It’s best to use a mild detergent when cleaning any kind of fabric. You may also use a liquid dishwashing soap in a pinch.

Does white vinegar work better than rubbing alcohol for removing mascara stains?

White vinegar can help loosen the mascara stain from the fibers before laundering the item in a washing machine. However, rubbing alcohol is best used when spot cleaning the garment as it breaks down the makeup without damaging the fabric.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Mascara > Workwear

Clearing Away Mascara Stains from Workwear in a Jiffy!

Accidentally smudging your work outfit with mascara can be a real pain to remove. However, there are several ways to clean up that stain quickly and return your workwear to its former glory. Read on to learn how!

Updated 26 Jun 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Step 1: Identify the Surface Material

The material of the clothing item will determine what method you use for cleaning. Is it a cotton shirt? Wool dress? Nylon blouse? In addition, look for the clothing tag or tagless sticker for suggested laundry care instructions. If the label is missing, it’s best to proceed with caution as certain materials don’t respond well to particular cleaning methods.

Step 2: Use a Clean, White Cloth or Paper Towel

Before trying any cleaning methods, dab stain gently with a clean, white cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of mascara as possible. This will help prevent the stain from spreading or penetrating deeper into the fabric.

Step 3: Spot Cleaning with a Mild Detergent

In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of a mild detergent, like a liquid dishwashing soap, with 1 cup of lukewarm water. Take a clean white cloth and dip it into the soapy mixture, using the detergent, but not the excess water, to gently spot clean the stained area. Work soap into fabric using a gentle circular motion. Take extra care in rubbing the fabric in order to avoid fraying the fibers. After spot cleaning the affected area, rinse the detergent away with cold water.

Step 4: Blotting with Rubbing Alcohol

If the original stain persists, pour 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol onto a clean, white rag and dab it over the mascara-stained area of the fabric. Lay fabric flat and blot – but never rub – at the stain. The rubbing alcohol should act as a solvent and break down makeup without damaging the clothing fibers. Let the fabric air dry after using this method.

Step 5: Final Remedy: White Vinegar & Detergent

Create a mixture of 1 cup of lukewarm water with 1 cup of white vinegar. Submerge the stained fabric into the bowl and let it soak for about 15 minutes before removing it. Then, use a mild detergent and warm water to wash the item in a machine. Alternatively, use the same process illustrated in Step 3 to spot clean the fabric if throwing it into a washing machine is not an option.

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