REMOVING MAKE-UP FROM PILLOW CASES OR BED LINENS Removing
make-up stains from pillow cases or bed linens has to be one of our biggest
challenges. No matter how many cleaning items we have in our buckets we could
never have enough with all the tasks that come our way. Even so….detecting the
stains before washing the item is also tough. King size sheets and duvet covers
are so big that a smudge of eyeliner or face powder stains can go undetected
and then it’s almost too late. Light colored face clothes and hand towels have
been ruined by removing certain types of makeup that cause bleaching effects,
rendering the towels unusable for guests. We are constantly looking for
solutions and simple tricks. Keep in mind that different types of make-up will
respond to different types of cleaning solutions, and successful removal is
dependent on knowing which solution works best for the type of stain you have. Lipstick
is a mixture of waxes, pigments and oils. Foundation or base used to cover and
smooth complexion are oil and emollient based. Powder base are made of a
lighter oil. Mascara is most commonly made from wax thickeners, water and
pigment. Cleaning solutions are based on different types of ingredients. Cleaning
Solution: To Remove Lipstick: Rubbing
(Isoprophyl) Alcohol or Witch Hazel To Remove
Mascara and Eye-liner: Dawn or Ajax
dishwashing liquid (and a drop or two of water). To Remove
Liquid Foundation: 3% hydrogen peroxide
solution. To Remove
Blush, Eye Shadow or Powdered Foundation (non-oil based): Mild laundry detergent (liquid) WITHOUT
bleach/bleach alternative I have tried
grease cutter, soaking in Clorox-2 and laundry stain remover such as Shout or
Tide. Continuous applications of different products can cause further damage to
the linens or pillow cases. Certain fabrics are also a consideration. If all
else fails, try taking your item to a professional cleaner. |