How to Remove Makeup Stains from Carpet

Quck answer

Here are some tips on how to remove makeup stains from your carpet:

1. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess makeup.

2. Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.

3. Dip a clean cloth into the soapy water and gently blot the stain, working from the outer edges towards the center.

4. Continue blotting until the stain starts to lift.

5. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry with a clean cloth.

6. If the stain persists, try using a mixture of white vinegar and water or a carpet stain remover.

7. Blot the area again with a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue.

8. Allow the carpet to air dry completely before walking on it again.

Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet before applying it to the stain.


Having your favorite makeup products stain your carpet can be frustrating. Different types of cosmetics require different methods to remove makeup from carpet. Acting quickly with the right cleaning products and tools can increase the chances of completely removing the stain.


How to Remove Makeup Stains from Carpet
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Basic Steps to Remove Makeup from Carpet

Before proceeding, review the care instructions from your carpet manufacturer or test the cleaning solution in a hidden area. If the fiber’s dye fades or changes color, try a different method. After treating the carpet with a water-based product, fill a spray bottle with clean, cool water and lightly spritz the area to rinse it. Blot up excess moisture and residue.

Removing Pressed and Loose Powders

If powder blush, eyeshadow, or finishing powders shatter or spill, clean the stain immediately. The longer the powder remains on the carpet, the more likely it is to spread or set. Start by removing as much of the powder as possible before using any cleaner. Hold a paper towel next to the spill and gently brush the excess onto the towel with a butter knife.

Combine 1/4 teaspoon of mild, clear dishwashing detergent with 1 cup of lukewarm water. Wet a white cloth in the solution and gently blot the stain, working from the inside out. Allow the detergent to break up the stain for a few minutes, then continue blotting until the mark lifts. Use a clean portion of the cloth each time you dip into the cleaning solution to prevent color transfer.

Removing Creamy Lip and Cheek Products

Cream blushes, lipsticks, and similar products often have an oily base that moisturizes the lips or skin. While this base helps with fine lines and dry flakes, it can cling to carpet fibers, making it challenging to remove makeup from carpet.

Remove any excess product with the back of a butter knife, then mix 1/4 teaspoon of white distilled vinegar with 1 cup of warm water. Blot the stain, removing the outermost portion while applying the solution to the carpet fibers. Wait a few minutes before blotting again to allow the vinegar’s acid to break down the creamy makeup base.

If the stain is still visible, place a white paper towel over the spot and set your clothing iron to the lowest setting. Briefly iron over the towel and check the underside; the stain should transfer. Repeat this process until the stain disappears.

Removing Long-Wearing Liquids

Products that claim long-lasting wear of 12 to 24 hours can be difficult to remove from carpet fibers and may require stronger chemicals. Mix 1 tablespoon of ammonia with 1 cup of water and gently blot the stain with a cloth until it lifts.

If the stain remains, you can try using dry cleaning solvent or unflavored vodka. Take a white rag and dampen it with either fluid, then blot the stain until it lifts. If this doesn’t work, you can apply the product evenly to the stain using the cloth and wait for about 30 minutes before trying to blot again.

In some cases, ammonia or a solvent may not be strong enough to dissolve stubborn foundation stains. In such situations, you can apply clear waterproof makeup remover or a white cream-based makeup remover to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes. Blot the product off the carpet and use ammonia, dry cleaning solvent, or vodka to remove any remaining pigment. Remember to never apply or pour ammonia or solvent directly onto the carpet; always use a cloth.

When it comes to nail polish stains, treat them similar to paint spills. Start by dabbing the stain with pure acetone nail polish remover applied gently to a white cloth. Focus only on the stain, not the surrounding carpet. Acetone works by dissolving the nail polish, making it thinner before completely lifting it.

After every two to three blots, use a clean corner of the rag dampened with fresh acetone to prevent spreading the nail polish to other areas. Once you’re finished, remove the acetone residue by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing detergent with 1 cup of water and rinsing the carpet with clean water. Be careful not to oversaturate the carpet with acetone as it can dissolve the backing adhesive and cause more damage.

By using the right products and techniques, you can effectively remove makeup stains from your carpet without worsening the situation. It’s important to understand your makeup and what works best to quickly tackle these stains.

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