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Make Merino Wool Good as New: Tips for Cleaning Nail Polish Stains

Merino wool is prized for its soft, luxurious texture and its ability to keep you comfortable in all conditions. But if you accidentally get a bit of nail polish on your merino garment, it can be difficult to get off.

Updated 28 Feb 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Fortunately, it's possible to save your merino garments from nail polish stains, with the right cleaning methods. Here are some tips for getting the stubborn stain out of your merino wool.

Removing Dried Nail Polish

Dried nail polish can be harder to remove than wet nail polish. To start, scrape away any excess nail polish with a flat-edged tool like a butter knife. Make sure not to rub, which could cause the nail polish to smear.

Once the excess has been removed, place a paper towel over the spill and lightly press down with an iron set to a low heat. The heat will help to break up nail polish, while the paper towel will absorb the excess.

Next, dab a cotton cloth or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol onto the stained area and blot until the nail polish is gone.

Removing Wet Nail Polish

If nail polish is still wet, it will be easier to remove. Start by soaking up any excess liquid with a paper towel.

Then, mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water. Gently swirl the garment in the soapy water — do not scrub! — and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse it with cold water, making sure all soap is removed.

Finally, blot the stain with rubbing alcohol and rinse fabric again. Repeat this process until the nail polish is gone.

Cleaning Recommendations

Regardless of how much of the nail polish you've managed to remove, it's always a good idea to have your garment professionally cleaned. This is especially true if the stain has set in or remains after multiple attempts to clean.

Be sure to point out the stain when taking your garment to the dry cleaner, and ask them for advice on how to best deal with the remaining stain. They may suggest special treatments such as enzyme cleaners, which can help to break down stubborn stains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove dried nail polish from my merino wool?

Scrape away excess nail polish with a flat-edged object. Place a paper towel over the spill and gently press down with a low-heat iron. Finally, dab a cotton cloth or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol onto the stained area.

How do I remove wet nail polish from my merino wool?

Soak up any excess liquid with a paper towel. Then, mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water and swirl garment in the soapy water. Rinse it with cold water. Finally, blot the stain with rubbing alcohol and rinse the fabric again.

Do I need to have my garment professionally cleaned?

While it isn't necessary, it is recommended. Point out the stain when taking your garment to the dry cleaner and ask them for advice on how to best deal with remaining stain. They may suggest special treatments such as enzyme cleaners, which can help to break down stubborn stains.

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