How to Get Foundation Stains Out of Clothes
Foundation, whether in liquid or powder form, is often applied to the face and neck to create an even, uniform color to the complexion, cover flaws, and, sometimes, change the natural skin tone.

While it improves the look of our skin, it doesn’t look great on clothes, and the oils and pigments in the foundation can leave stains. But no need to panic!
Whether it rubbed off on your blouse or stained your shirt a while ago, you can easily remove the foundation from your clothes with the right technique and stain remover products.
Keep reading our article about how to get foundation stains out of clothes. We will guide you through using a top-tier stain remover such as Vanish and effective methods for tackling liquid and powder foundation spills
Stain Removal, But Firs
Throwing the stained garment into your laundry basket is always tempting, but the best time to attack the stain is as soon as you notice it.
If left untreated, the pigments from the foundation sink further into the garment’s fiber, making the stain more difficult to remove. But with some quick thinking, you can prevent the stain from setting in.
For liquid foundation stains, gently scrape off excess product using a dull knife or spoon to prevent it from setting. For powder stains, avoid brushing or rubbing the fabric; instead, blow away the excess powder.
These methods help minimize the stain's impact and make removal easier
Foundation Stains Removal from Clothes
After addressing the excess liquid or powder, remove the foundation stains from clothes using Vanish Oxi Action Crystal White Powder for whites and Vanish Oxi Action Powder for colored.
There are three methods for utilizing Vanish products to eliminate stains: Pre-treat, Soaking, and adding directly to the Wash.
Although pre-treatment and soaking are typically reserved for tough stains, the in-wash method is the simplest and can be combined with pre-treat or soaking.
INSTRUCTIONS
Option 1: Pre Treat
Add ¼ scoop (15g) of Vanish Oxi Action Powder in the water (MAX 40°C)
Stir for 30 seconds.
Apply the mixture directly onto the ink stain, rub it gently, and let it sit for 10 mins (do not allow Vanish to dry on the clothes.
Wash as usual.
Option 2: Soak
Add 1 scoop (60g) of Vanish Oxi Action Powder in 4L of water.
Stir for 30 seconds.
Soak the clothes in the solution for 1h max, and for whites, it's 4h max.
Wash as usual.
Option 3: Wash
Add Vanish Oxi Action Powder to your machine on top of your laundry detergent. Below are the recommended stain remover dosages:
• ½ scoop (30g) for normal stains.
• 1 scoop (60g) for tough & dried stains
Set-in/Dried Foundation Stain Removal from Clothes
To remove set-in/dried foundation stains from clothes, use Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal. It is safe on colors and whites, works three times better than bleach, and can be used to pre-treat, soak, and wash.
INSTRUCTIONS
Option 1: Pre Treat
Apply Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal directly to the stain and rub in gently.
Do not allow the stain remover to dry on the fabric.
Wash immediately with your usual detergent.
Rinse the garment thoroughly before drying.
Option 2: Soak
Add 10ml of Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal to 1 litre of water (40°C max).
Leave the clothes in the solution for 1h max.
After soaking, wash as usual or rinse thoroughly.
Option 3: Wash
Add 100 ml of Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal to your normal detergent and wash as usual.
FAQs
Is it necessary to wash the stained area immediately?
Yes, deal with the stain area as early as possible because the less time a stain takes, the easier it will be to remove.
Will cold or warm water more effectively remove foundation stains?
Cold water is generally more effective for removing foundation stains, as hot water can cause the stain to further set into the fabric.
Can I use a stain pre-treatment spray for foundation stains?
Yes, you can spray Vanish Pre-Treat Oxi Action Stain Remover Spray directly onto the stained area and rub gently. Leave the spray on for at least 1 to 5 minutes before washing as normal.