How do I remove shoe polish stains from sweaters?

Start by blotting the stain with a soft cloth to absorb as much of the polish as possible. Then mix together equal parts white vinegar and mild detergent and dab this mixture onto the stain. Rinse off the mixture, apply a commercial spot-cleaning solution if necessary, and then wash and dry the sweater.

What supplies are needed to remove shoe polish stains?

You will need white vinegar, mild detergent, a soft cloth, stain remover, and a hair dryer (optional).

WikiLaundry > Stains > Shoe polish > Sweaters

Get Rid of Shoe Polish Stains in a Snap With These Tips

No one likes unsightly shoe polish stains on their favorite sweater. But don’t worry, it’s not impossible to get rid of them. Read on to learn the secrets of eliminating shoe polish stains in just a few simple steps.

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Isabelle Trottier

What You'll Need

White vinegar
Mild detergent
Soft cloth
Stain remover
Hair dryer (optional)

Step 1: Blot the Stain With a Cloth

Start by blotting the stain with a soft cloth to absorb as much of polish as possible. If stain is already dry, it may be helpful to lightly dampen the cloth before you start.

Step 2: Apply a Mixture of Vinegar and Detergent

Mix together equal parts white vinegar and mild detergent. Gently dab mixture onto the stain using a cotton ball or a rag. Be sure to avoid rubbing too hard, as this could harm fabric of the sweater.

Step 3: Rinse the Mixture Off

Rinse the mixture off the sweater with cold water. Do this until the cleaning solution is completely gone. This will help prevent discoloration and further staining.

Step 4: Apply a Stain Remover

If the stain persists, try applying a commercial spot-cleaning solution or pre-treating detergent onto area. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product’s packaging.

Step 5: Wash the Sweater

Once the stain has been treated, wash the sweater in the washing machine according care instructions. Make sure to use cold water and a gentle cycle.

Step 6: Dry the Sweater

Once the sweater has finished washing, lay it flat on a dry towel. If stain is still visible, try using a hair dryer on low heat to target the area. This should help remove any remaining imperfections.

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