How to remove mascara stains from pillowcases

Mascara is a key part of any woman’s makeup kit, and it’s often difficult to remove without damaging clothes or furniture. Fortunately, there are several ways to remove mascara stains from pillowcases without resorting to dangerous chemicals.

What do you do if your mascara runs while you’re trying to put on your makeup? Do you reach for the harsh cleansers or risk leaving your face with a permanent stain? The answer may surprise you: You can remove mascara stains from pillowcases with a little bit of lemon juice.

Lemon juice is an amazing tool for removing many types of stains, both organic and inorganic. It works by breaking down the compounds present in the stain, which makes it easy to rinse away. In addition, lemon juice is pH-balanced, which means that it won’t damage fabrics or surfaces.

Remove mascara stains from pillowcases in just a few simple steps:

What is mascara?

Mascara is a cosmetic product that many women use to darken and lengthen their eyelashes. It is usually composed of dark pigments, oils, waxes, and emollients that give lashes a fuller, darker appearance. Mascara can be applied with a brush or wand and comes in various formulas, including waterproof types that are designed to withstand sweating and rubbing.

What are the different types of mascara?

The three main types of mascara are waterproof, lengthening, and volumizing. Each type of mascara is made with different ingredients to achieve the desired effect.

Waterproof mascara is made with an ingredient called acrylates copolymer, which forms a film that adheres to the lashes and does not budge, even when exposed to water. This type of mascara is ideal for those who have allergies or weepy eyes, as it will not run or smudge.

Lengthening mascara contains polymers that adhere to the lashes and create a longer, more dramatic look. This type of mascara is ideal for those who want to create the illusion of longer lashes.

Volumizing mascara contains ingredients that thicken the lashes and create a fuller, more dramatic look. This type of mascara is ideal for those who want to create the illusion of thicker lashes.

Gather the necessary supplies

Before diving into the stain removal process, gather the following supplies:

• Spoon or dull knife
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Cold water
• Stain remover (optional)
• Professional cleaner (optional)

Having these supplies on hand will make the process much easier and more efficient.

Scrape off excess mascara

Start by removing any excess mascara from the pillowcase. Gently scrape off the mascara using a spoon or dull knife. Be careful not to rub the stain further into the fabric.

Apply liquid laundry detergent

Once you’ve removed the excess mascara, it’s time to treat the stain. Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to the stained area. Use your fingers to rub the detergent into the fabric gently. Ensure that the stain is well-covered with detergent.

Let the detergent sit

Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes. This will give it time to penetrate the fabric and break down the mascara particles.

Rinse with cold water

After the detergent has had time to work its magic, rinse the pillowcase with cold water. Hold the stained area under running water, ensuring that the water flows from the backside of the fabric. Cold water helps prevent the mascara stain from setting in.

Check for stain removal

Inspect the pillowcase to see if the stain has been completely removed. If the stain is still visible, don’t worry! Move on to the next step.

Repeat if necessary

If the stain persists, repeat steps 3 to 5. Apply more liquid laundry detergent, let it sit, and rinse again with cold water. Repeat this process until the stain is no longer visible.

Wash the pillowcase

Once the mascara stain is gone, it’s time to wash the pillowcase. Place it in the washing machine with cold water and a regular amount of laundry detergent. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Wash the pillowcase separately or with similar-colored items to prevent any color transfer.

Dry the pillowcase

After washing, dry the pillowcase as you normally would. It’s crucial to avoid using hot water or a dryer until the stain has been completely removed. Heat can set the stain and make it more challenging to remove.

Avoid using hot water or a dryer

To prevent any potential damage and set the stain permanently, refrain from using hot water or a dryer until the stain is completely gone. Be patient and let the stain removal process work its magic.

Additional tips for stubborn stains

In case the mascara stain persists even after multiple attempts, try using a stain remover specifically designed for fabrics. Follow the instructions provided by the product. Alternatively, you can take the pillowcase to a professional cleaner who specializes in stain removal. They have the expertise and tools to handle stubborn stains effectively.

Conclusion

Mascara stains on pillowcases are no match for the right techniques and products. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully remove mascara stains and restore your pillowcases to their original condition. Remember to be patient and persistent, as some stains may require multiple attempts. With a little effort, you can enjoy clean and fresh pillowcases once again.

FAQs

1. Can I use hot water to remove mascara stains from pillowcases?

No, it is best to avoid using hot water as it can set the stain. Stick to cold water throughout the stain removal process.

2. How many times should I repeat the stain removal steps?

Repeat the steps until the mascara stain is completely gone. Be patient and persistent, as some stains may require multiple attempts.

3. Can I use a stain remover if the mascara stain doesn’t come off?

Yes, you can try using a stain remover specifically designed for fabrics. Follow the instructions provided by the product for the best results.

4. Is it necessary to wash the pillowcase after removing the stain?

Yes, washing the pillowcase after removing the stain ensures that any remaining residue is eliminated and leaves your pillowcase fresh and clean.

5. Should I seek professional help if the stain persists?

If the mascara stain persists even after multiple attempts, it may be worth taking the pillowcase to a professional cleaner who specializes in stain removal. They can provide expert assistance and increase the chances of successful stain removal.