If you’ve ever tried to remove lipstick from your clothing, you probably know it’s not always an easy task. Many of today’s lipsticks are formulated to be smudge proof and long lasting. What follows are some tips to help you remove lipstick from fabric.

Before taking steps to remove lipstick or any other stain from fabric, it is important to read the clothing label and note cleaning instructions. If you’re spot cleaning, dab at the stain only; when you rub a stain, you grind it in deeper and cause the fibers to weaken. Also, don’t put stained clothing into the dryer unless the stain is completely removed. Heat will cause the stain to become a permanent part of your clothing. Avoid ironing stained clothing for the same reason.

If you’re prone to staining your clothes with makeup, you might consider applying it after you’re dressed. If this isn’t possible, drape a silk scarf or handkerchief over your face before pulling on a blouse or sweater. Use a fabric you don’t mind staining and pull on your clothes gently to avoid smearing.

It only makes sense to use makeup remover to remove lipstick from your clothes. Check the ingredients first, however, to make sure the cleaning agents are compatible with the fabric. In most cases, you can dab a bit of the makeup remover directly onto the fabric and rub a bit, and the stain should lift right off. Launder as usual.

If your material is dry clean only, you don’t want to mess with it. Have your dry cleaner remove lipstick from the fabric rather than trying it yourself. They're professionally equipped to deal with such stains and will have your garment looking as good as new in no time. Be sure to point the stain out ahead of time, as they may need to take special care.

Rubbing alcohol can help to remove lipstick. Put a small amount on your clothing and blot until the stain has vanished. This may need to be repeated several times until the stain is gone. “Rinse” the fabric by blotting with cool water.

To remove lipstick from clothing, rub in a little petroleum jelly and massage until the stain disappears. If a greasy stain is left behind, sprinkle on some baking soda to absorb and launder as usual.

Hair spray doesn’t only work on ink stains. Use it to remove lipstick stains as well. Spray a bit on and blot with a damp cloth. Repeat the process until the stain is lifted and launder as usual.

Finally, if you have a stain that just won’t come out, contact the lipstick manufacturer’s costumer service line. They’re sure to have plenty of useful tips to help you to remove lipstick from your clothing.