Accidentally washing and drying chapstick can indeed leave stubborn stains on your clothes. However, with some prompt action and the right approach, you may be able to remove the stains. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:
Materials you'll need:
- Dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent (preferably one with enzymes)
- Clean cloth or paper towels
- Rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol
- Old toothbrush
- Stain remover (optional)
Step 1: Scrape off excess chapstick Using a spoon or a dull knife, gently scrape off any excess chapstick from the stained area of your clothes. Be careful not to spread the stain further.
Step 2: Blot the stain Take a clean cloth or paper towel and blot the stained area gently. This will help absorb some of the chapstick oil.
Step 3: Pretreat with dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent directly to the stain. Both contain enzymes that can help break down the oils in the chapstick. Gently rub the detergent into the stained fabric.
Step 4: Apply rubbing alcohol Dampen a clean cloth or cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. Dab the stained area with the alcohol, working from the outside of the stain toward the center. The alcohol will help further dissolve the chapstick oils.
Step 5: Rinse and check the stain Rinse the treated area with cool water to remove the detergent and alcohol. Check the stain to see if it's still visible.
Step 6: Repeat if necessary If the stain persists, repeat steps 3 to 5 until you see improvement. You can also use a small, old toothbrush to gently scrub the stained area during this process.
Step 7: Launder as usual Wash the garment as you normally would, but avoid using hot water, as heat can set the stain. Check the stained area before putting it in the dryer. If the stain is still visible, repeat the treatment process.
Step 8: Consider a stain remover (optional) If the stain remains after repeated attempts, you can try using a commercial stain remover designed for oil-based stains. Follow the product's instructions and test it on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn't cause any discoloration.
Remember, the key to effectively removing stains is to act quickly and be patient during the stain removal process. If you're unsure or concerned about a specific fabric or garment, you may want to seek professional dry-cleaning assistance to prevent any damage.