How To Remove Nail Polish Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 26, 2023

Nail polish stains can be difficult to remove, especially if left untreated for too long. Nail polish is a type of lacquer that can easily transfer to clothes and leave behind stubborn stains. But don't worry, with the right approach and a few simple household items, you can easily remove these stains and restore your clothes to their original condition. These tips will help you get rid of the stains effectively. Keep reading to learn more about how to remove nail polish stains from clothes and enjoy your manicure without worrying about ruining your clothes.

COLOR

Various (depending on color)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that can come in various colors depending on the type of nail polish. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slightly chemical smell.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the nail polish from bleeding and causing further damage to the fabric.

The Science Behind Nail Polish Stains

Nail polish is made up of a mixture of chemicals, including pigments and resins, which can leave stains on clothes when it comes into contact with the fabric. The pigments in the polish can adhere to the fibers in the fabric and cause discoloration. The resins in the polish can also create a barrier on the fabric, preventing it from releasing the pigments, which can make the stain more difficult to remove. Additionally, if the polish is not fully dry when it comes into contact with the fabric, the solvents in the polish can cause the pigments and resins to spread and penetrate deeper into the fabric, making the stain harder to remove.

nail polish

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Nail Polish Stains

  • Acetone or nail polish remover
  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover or pre-treatment
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide

Step By Step Process To Remove Nail Polish Stains

  1. Blot any excess nail polish with a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Do not rub the stain as it can spread and set the stain deeper.
  2. Apply a small amount of acetone or nail polish remover to a clean cloth, and gently dab the stain. Warning: be careful not to use too much acetone as it can damage some fabrics.
  3. Apply a stain remover or pre-treatment to the affected area, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Wash the garment in warm water (85° to 105°F) with laundry detergent.
  5. Check the stain before drying the garment, if the stain remains, repeat steps 2-4.
  6. To remove any remaining stain, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
  7. Mix a paste of baking soda and water, and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
  8. Wash the garment in warm water (85° to 105°F) again, with laundry detergent.
  9. Check the stain again before drying the garment, if the stain remains, repeat steps 6-8.
  10. If the stain still remains, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a clean cloth, and gently dab the stain.
  11. Wash the garment in warm water (85° to 105°F) one more time, with laundry detergent.
Note: always check the garment's care label before attempting to remove the stain, and test the products on a small, inconspicuous area of the garment first to check for colorfastness.

In Brief

Nail polish stains are caused by pigments and resins in the polish adhering to fabric fibers. To remove the stain, you can use products like acetone or nail polish remover, laundry detergent, stain remover, white vinegar, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. The steps for removing the stain include blotting the excess, applying the products, washing the garment and repeating the process if the stain remains. Always check the care label of the garment before attempting to remove the stain.

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