- November 1, 2023
- Posted by:
- Category: Uncategorized
Stain removal is all about the variables: the type of stain; the color of stain; the fabric—and the costume embellishments. And you have to think “outside the box” when it’s time to pre-treat, wash or dryclean these items.
Face Paint, Lipstick, Hair Dye removal: Pretreatment & patience!
All of these stains will need pretreatment, detergent, water … and time: Time for the stain remover to do its intended job–which is to dissolve the stain. If it’s working after 5 minutes, then apply another few drops.
Face paint, lipstick and hair dye, wash off the face with soap and water. But clothing—depending on the color and fabric—may need a soak in color-safe bleach, after pretreatment and washing. Some face paint and lipstick will need drycleaning, so consult your fabricare guru for first-hand advice.
Embellishments
Some sequins, pearls and glitter are attached with wax and glue, so you may have to “un-stitch” some ornamental parts before pretreatment because the wax and glues can dissolve in washing or drycleaning.
Glow-Sticks and Stain Removal
Most glow sticks contain peroxide (a mild bleach), fluorescent dyes, and glass shards. The peroxide can “bleach” fabrics, but I would worry more about the fluorescent colors!
If the stick breaks and leaks the inner fluid on to clothing, the fabric will need to be pretreated and then soaked, possibly all night. The colors are water-soluble, so they should come out. If they do improve, but are not removed, then try a soak in color-safe bleach. Use gloves to keep the glass shards from contacting your hands.
Then rinse and wash, as usual!