How to remove lipstick stain from silk blouse

Lipstick color tends to fade from your lips after a few hours of wear. Unfortunately, getting it off your clothes isn't nearly as easy. That's especially true when the lipstick mars delicate fabrics, such as silk. Silk is easily damaged, so it's out of the question to clean a silk blouse with harsh stain removers. The upside is a basic household product will do the trick.

Step 1 - Test on an Inconspicuous Area First

Before using any of the following steps, keep in mind that you should first test any methods on an inconspicuous part of the garment. If there is any sign of discoloration or damage, avoid using that method in other areas. Also, if you are unsure about trying to remove the stain yourself or if the garment is very expensive, a better bet is to use a dry cleaner. Point out the stain when you hand it over and explain that it is from lipstick so they can treat it accordingly.

Step 2 - Apply Transparent Tape or Masking Tape

Try to attend to the marks as soon as possible; otherwise, the lipstick will be absorbed deeper into the fibers and will be difficult to remove. First, lay a piece of masking tape or transparent tape over the stain and smooth it down. Quickly rip it off. Most of the lipstick should come off, but it is best to repeat the step a couple of times for the best result. If this does not work in removing the stain completely, you can go to the next step.

Step 3 - Try Makeup Remover

Makeup remover is quite effective at removing lipstick stains; however, you must ensure that it is safe for your particular garment. Dab on some of the products in an inconspicuous area and check for any signs of damage. If it looks all right, you can try applying some directly to the marks.

Step 4 - Dab With Talcum Powder Dab the remaining stain with some talcum powder or cornflour, and rub it in lightly. The remnants will most likely be absorbed by the powder. Remove it afterward and inspect the area. If needed, repeat the step once more.

Step 5 - Apply Dry Cleaning Solvent With a soft cloth, dab some dry cleaning solvent, such as K2R, on it. Follow up by dabbing on a dry spotter such as Kleenrite. Repeat if necessary, and then wash the affected area with cold water until the stain comes out.

Step 6 - Air Dry the Garment By this time, most—if not all—of the stain will have disappeared. However, you must not dry the garment in a dryer because the heat will set any remnants that may not be visible when the silk is wet. Similarly, do not iron the garment until the stain has come off completely. Let the fabric air dry instead.