What is the best way to remove suntan lotion stains from silk?

Start by rinsing with cold water and then spot clean with a mild fabric-safe soap. Rinse the area with a mixture of white vinegar and cold water. Finally, hand wash the area with a few drops of mild detergent, rinse it, and hang it to dry.

How long should I let the fabric soak in the soapy water?

Allow the fabric to soak in the soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes.

Can I put silk fabric in the dryer?

No, never put silk fabric in the dryer, as this may cause the stain to set.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Suntan lotion > Silk

Getting Rid of Stubborn Suntan Lotion Stains on Silk Quickly and Easily

Nobody likes the idea of their favorite silk curtains or shirt being ruined by stubborn suntan lotion stains. So what’s best way to get rid of them? Read on to learn the best techniques and tricks for making your silk look like new again.

Updated 12 Mar 2023

By Mateuzs Kowalski

Step One: Rinse With Cold Water

Start by getting as much of the suntan lotion out of the fabric as you can. Use cold water to rinse the stained area, working from outside in. Take care to not scrub the stain or rub it too hard, as this could damage the delicate fabric threads.

Step Two: Spot Clean with Soap

Use a mild soap designed for delicate fabrics and spot clean the area liberally. Again, be careful not to rub or scrub the fabric too hard. After you’re done, rinse the area with cold water to remove the soap.

Step Three: Rinse with White Vinegar

Mix one part white vinegar with two parts cold water and use this solution to rinse stained area. Take special care to ensure the vinegar solution reaches both sides of the fabric. This should help lift off any remaining suntan lotion residue that was left behind.

Step Four: Hand Wash with Detergent

Fill a sink with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild detergent. Submerge the stained area of the silk fabric and allow it to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. After the allotted time, gently swish the fabric around in the soapy water.

Step Five: Hang to Dry

Once the suntan lotion stain is removed, rinse the fabric with cold water to remove all traces of detergent. Gently squeeze out any excess water from the fabric and then hang it to dry. Do not put the fabric in the dryer, as this may cause the stain to set.

Conclusion

These five simple steps should have your silk looking like new again. Keep in mind, however, that time is of the essence when it comes to removing suntan lotion stains. The longer the residue is left on the fabric, harder it will be to get out.

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