How do I clean a suntan lotion stain from a ball gown?

Blot the stain, pre-treat it with detergent, soak the gown, rinse and dry, and retreat the stain as necessary.

What should I do if the stain remains?

Repeat the steps until the stain is completely gone.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Suntan lotion > Ball gown

How to Quickly Clean Suntan Lotion Stains from a Ball Gown

When your ball gown is covered in suntan lotion, it’s time to get creative. Here are five simple steps that will help you clear the stains and restore your beautiful dress to its original condition.

Updated 13 Mar 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Before you start trying any cleaning methods, it’s important to remove as much of the suntan lotion as possible. Use a clean cloth or sponge to blot the stain gently until no more lotion is coming off. Do not rub the stain, as this could damage the fabric.

Step 2: Pre-treat Stain

After blotting the stain, pre-treat it using a laundry detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Make sure you read all instructions on label before applying the detergent. Then use a soft brush or toothbrush to work the detergent into stain. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before moving on to step 3.

Step 3: Soak the Gown

Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water and add a teaspoon of laundry detergent, then swish it around until detergent is fully dissolved. Place the ball gown inside and let it soak for an hour or two. If the water starts to get dirty, change it and add more detergent.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Once the gown has soaked, take it out of the sink and rinse all of the detergent off with cold water. Then place the garment on a towel, making sure to keep the stain at top. Roll the towel and gently press out excess water, then unroll it and hang the gown up to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Step 5: Retreat Stain

Once the gown is completely dry, inspect the stain to see if the suntan lotion still remains. If it does, apply a fabric stain remover to the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing the gown as normal. For extra stubborn stains, repeat steps 2-5 until the stain is completely gone.

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