What is the best way to clean nail polish stains from tracksuits?

Try scraping off any excess nail polish, soaking the stained area in a bowl of lukewarm water and liquid detergent, spot treating with a gentle dish soap, pre-treating with a stain remover, doing a color fastness test, and laundering as usual.

Should I rinse the area after scrubbing with dish soap?

Yes, it is important to thoroughly rinse the area with cool water after scrubbing with dish soap so that all residue is removed.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Nail polish > Tracksuit

7 Simple Steps to Clean Nail Polish Stains from Tracksuits

Are you an athlete that loves both tracksuits and nail polish? It can be a messy combination when your nail polish stains end up on your tracksuit. Here are 7 simple steps to help you clean nail polish stains from your tracksuit.

Updated 28 Feb 2023

By Blaž Stančič

Step 1: Scrape the Excess

Before anything else, you’ll want to use a butter knife to scrape off any excess nail polish that may be sitting on top of your tracksuit. This isn’t a necessary step if the nail polish has already dried, but it will help make cleanup easier if you get to it right away.

Step 2: Soak the Stained Area

Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of liquid detergent. Submerge the stained area in the solution and allow it to sit for around 20 minutes. The detergent should begin to loosen and lift stain.

Step 3: Spot Treat

After soaking, spot treat the stain with a gentle dish soap. Rub the fabric in a circular pattern with your fingers or use a soft-bristled brush to help remove the nail polish.

Step 4: Rinse Well & Repeat

Once the stain is gone or significantly lightened, rinse the area very well with cool water. If you’re still seeing some traces of the stain, repeat steps 3 and 4 to ensure the area is completely clean.

Step 5: Pre-Treat Again

If some of the color is still visible, you can pre-treat the area again with a stain remover before laundering. Follow the instructions on the product’s label, including any safety warnings.

Step 6: Do a Patch Test

It's a good idea to do a color fastness test before laundering item. The best way to do this is by putting a tiny amount of detergent on an inner seam or pocket where it won't be easily seen, then rub it in with your thumb and rinse. Allow it to air dry before assessing results.

Step 7: Launder as Usual

If everything looks good after the patch test, you can launder the item as usual, using the warmest water temperature recommended on care instructions. Check fabric once again after laundering to make sure the stain is completely removed.

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