How do I clean suntan lotion stains from a cardigan?

Pre-treat the stain with enzymatic detergent, scrub with baking soda and water, degrease with dish soap, and spot treat with laundry detergent. Rinse the cardigan with water after each step to check if the stain has been lifted.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Suntan lotion > Cardigan

Effective Steps to Get Rid of Unwanted Suntan Lotion Stains from Cardigans

Do you need to get suntan lotion stains out of your favorite cardigan? If so, there are several easy methods you can use to remove stubborn spots from the fabric. Read on to learn more.

Updated 13 Mar 2023

By Brane Lukman

If your classic cardigan has become victim to suntan lotion stains, don't worry! With a few simple supplies and a little bit of know-how, you can restore your favorite sweater back to its pristine condition. Here's what you'll need to do:

Step One: Pre-treat with Detergent

The first step is to pre-treat the stain using an enzymatic detergent. Use a light dabbing motion with a damp cloth or swab to work in the detergent, focusing on the stained areas. Let the detergent sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.

Step Two: Scrub with Baking Soda and Water

If the stain remains after pre-treating, try scrubbing spot with a solution of baking soda and water. Make a paste by mixing a quarter cup of baking soda and one tablespoon of water in a bowl. Apply the paste to the stain, then use a soft bristle brush to scrub the paste into the fabric. Rinse the cardigan with water, then check if the stain has been lifted.

Step Three: Degrease with Dish Soap

If the stain is still present after trying the baking soda method, try degreasing it with dish soap. Apply a few drops of dish soap directly to the stain, then let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrape away any excess dish soap and rinse the cardigan thoroughly with water. If stain is still visible, repeat the degreasing process until it is eliminated.

Step Four: Spot Treat with Laundry Detergent

If stain remains after following above steps, you can try spot treating it with laundry detergent. Use a damp cloth to apply a few drops of laundry detergent directly to the stain, then let it sit for a few minutes. Gently scrub cloth against the area to rub the detergent into the fabric. Rinse the cardigan with water, then check if stain has lifted.

By following the steps outlined above, you can easily and effectively remove suntan lotion stains from your favorite cardigan. With right supplies and a bit of elbow grease, you can easily restore your garment back to its original condition.

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