How To Get Makeup Stains Out of Your Bed Sheets
Have you ever woken up to find traces of last night’s glam smeared across your pillowcase or favorite sheets? Or maybe a guest left behind a little lipstick love on the linens? No matter how it happened, one thing is for sure — it’s time to save those sheets.
At Maid 4 Cleaning, we know Saint Louis households need practical and proven cleaning advice. Our clients love a fresh bed, and we’re here to help make that happen — with science-backed tips, not old wives’ tales. Here’s how to remove the most common makeup stains from your bedding.
Check Before You Treat
Before diving in, always read your fabric’s care label. Spot test your cleaning solution on a hidden area of the fabric, then let it dry completely to ensure there’s no discoloration.
How to Remove Mascara from Pillowcases
Waterproof mascara is made to stay put — and it often does, especially on your pillowcase. Here’s how to tackle it:
What You’ll Need:
Butter knife or spoon
Gentle grease-fighting dish soap (like Dawn)
2 cups of cool water
Microfiber cloths
Steps:
Gently scrape off any dried mascara using a spoon or dull knife — don’t rub.
Mix a few drops of dish soap with water.
Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and blot (don’t scrub) the stain.
Rinse the area with cool water.
Launder as usual, but air dry to avoid setting any remaining stain.
If needed, repeat the process until the stain disappears completely.
How to Get Foundation Out of Sheets
Surprisingly, shaving cream works wonders on foundation stains.
You’ll Need:
A spoon or dull knife
Shaving cream (basic foam, not gel)
Water
Microfiber cloth
Steps:
Scrape off excess foundation.
Apply a layer of shaving cream and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes.
Dab gently with a damp microfiber cloth, working from the outside in.
Rinse with cold water.
Wash the sheets and air dry.
Repeat as necessary until your sheets are blemish-free.
How to Remove Lipstick from Sheets
Lipstick’s oils make it tough — but not impossible — to remove.
What You’ll Need:
Spoon or dull knife
Witch hazel or isopropyl alcohol (70%)
Cotton balls or makeup pads
Steps:
Scrape off what you can without smearing it further.
Dab the stain with a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel or alcohol.
Repeat until the lipstick lifts.
Rinse with cold water and wash. Skip the dryer again — heat can set any remaining pigment.
Pro Tips from the Experts
Microfiber magic: Use high-quality microfiber cloths — they lift residue without damaging delicate fabrics.
Cold water first: Hot water can set stains permanently. Always start with cold.
Air dry everything: Heat from dryers bakes in stains — avoid until you’re 100% sure the stain is gone.
Need a Fresh Start?
If your bedding has seen better days or you just don’t want to deal with it — we’ve got you covered. At Maid 4 Cleaning, we offer full-home cleanings, including detailed bedroom refreshes, throughout Saint Louis. Whether you’re prepping for guests or just need a little break, we’ll get your home feeling brand new.
📞 Call us today at (314) 626-5885 to book your cleaning.
✨ Be Swept Away — you deserve it.
