How to Remove Lipstick from Carpet

Luckily, with a little patience, the right cleaning methods, and a high-quality stain solver like Vanish, lifting away and treating lipstick stains from the carpet has become much easier. 

So, keep on reading our article to learn how to remove lipstick from carpet while keeping it looking fresh even between the stop-and-go of active daily lives.

Before attempting to remove lipstick stains from your carpet, it is essential to perform some pre-cleaning preparations to ensure the best results.

First and foremost, treat lipstick stains as soon as they occur or are noticed. Second, remove large pieces of lipstick from the carpet using a spoon or dull knife. 

Do not exert too much force or rub the stain; doing so will only push the lipstick deeper into the fibers and can make the stain larger.

Once you have removed as much excess lipstick as possible, follow the instructions below to eliminate the lipstick stain from carpets.

1. Pre-Treat Spray (Carpet)

1. Spray Vanish Oxi Action Carpet & Upholstery Pre-Treat Spray directly onto the stained area and rub gently.

2. Leave the spray on between 1-5 minutes before washing.

3. Heavy stains may require a second application.

2. Stain Removal Shampoo (Carpet)

1. Mix 1 part Vanish 3 in 1 Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo with 9 parts water (max temperature 40˚).

2. Whisk the solution into a foam. 

3. Apply the foam on the stained area using a brush or sponge. 

4. Sponge the stain with the stain remover foam solution. 

5. Blot the stain every 5 minutes with a clean area of the cloth (or a new cloth) and some more cleaning solution.

6. Use a clean cloth to blot the area dry, and allow it to dry completely for one day.

Fortunately, stain-removing products like those in the Vanish range can help remove tough carpet stains, whether fresh or dried. Read our product guide for carpets to make your carpet as good as new.

When dealing with lipstick stains on carpet, be cautious about the following:

1. Bleach 

Bleach has stain-removing capabilities, but it should not be used on carpets as it can cause discoloration and damage to the carpet fibers, backing, and underlay.

2. Scrubbing vigorously

Scrubbing the lipstick stain vigorously can push it deeper into the carpet fibers, making it more challenging to remove. Gentle cleaning methods are more effective and preserve the carpet's quality.

3. Excessive moisture

Over-saturating the carpet with water or a cleaning solution can foster mold and mildew growth, potentially harming the carpet’s backing.

FAQs

Can I remove vinegar to remove lipstick stains from carpet? 

Yes, vinegar can help break down lipstick stains, but it can also damage the stain or cause color fading. Therefore, it is better to avoid using vinegar and only use safe and reliable stain solvers, such as Vanish, for effective stain removal. 

Is it better to dab or scrub when trying to remove lipstick stains from carpet?

Dabbing is the preferred method for removing lipstick stains from the carpet. Scrubbing may drive the stain deeper into the fibers, whereas dabbing lifts the lipstick without causing additional damage.

Should I test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of carpet before using it to remove lipstick stains?

Yes, testing the stain remover product on a small, inconspicuous area of carpet is essential before using it to remove lipstick stains. This allows you to ensure that the stain remover does not cause any discoloration or damage to the carpet fibers, helping to prevent further issues during stain removal.