Hair dye can be a great way to change up your look and express yourself, but it can also be a messy process that can result in stains on your clothes. Whether you accidentally dripped hair dye on your favorite shirt or got it all over your pants during the coloring process, removing hair dye from clothes can be a daunting task.
In this article, we will cover a variety of methods for how to get hair dye out of clothes so that you can salvage your favorite outfits.
Before the Stain Removal Process on clothes
Before you begin the stain removal process on clothes, it’s essential to take a few preliminary steps to maximize your chances of successfully removing the stain and avoid potential damage to the fabric:
Act Quickly
The sooner you address the stain, the better the chances of complete removal. Fresh stains are generally easier to remove than old, set-in stains.
Check the Care Label
Always examine the care label on the clothing to understand the fabric type and recommended washing instructions. Different fabrics may require different stain removal methods.
Blot, Don’t Rub
If the stain is wet or fresh, gently blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb excess liquid without spreading the stain further. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Test an Inconspicuous Area
Before using any stain removal method or cleaning product, perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area of the garment (e.g., inside seam or hem) to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or damage to the fabric.
Identify the Stain Type
Determine the nature of the stain. Is it water-based, oil-based, protein-based (like blood), or dye-based (like hair dye)? Different types of stains may require specific treatment methods.
How to Get Hair Dye Out of Clothes: 8 Different ways
Rubbing Alcohol Method
- Blot the stain with a cloth to remove excess dye.
- Dampen a clean cloth or cotton ball with rubbing alcohol.
- Blot the stain gently, working from the outside of the stain towards the center.
- Rinse with cold water, then wash the garment as usual.
Hairspray Method
- Spray an aerosol hairspray directly onto the stain.
- Blot the stain with a clean cloth.
- Rinse with cold water, then wash the clothing.
Baking Soda and Water Paste
- Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and gently rub it in.
- Rinse with cold water, then launder the clothing.
Dish Soap Method
- Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid to the stain.
- Gently rub the fabric together to work in the soap.
- Rinse with cold water and launder as usual.
Aspirin Paste
- Crush an aspirin tablet and mix it with a small amount of water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and wash the garment.
Toothpaste Method
- Apply a non-gel, white toothpaste to the stain.
- Gently rub the fabric together to work in the toothpaste.
- Rinse with cold water and launder as usual.
Salt and Dish Soap
- Mix a mixture of salt and dish soap to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain, rub gently, and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and wash the clothing.
Commercial Stain Remover
Use a commercial stain remover designed for ink or dye stains. Follow the product’s instructions carefully.
Remember to always check the care label on your clothing before attempting any stain removal method to ensure that it won’t damage the fabric. Additionally, it may take multiple attempts with different methods to completely remove stubborn hair dye stains. Patience and persistence can often yield the best results.
How to Remove Hair Dye Stain from different Fabrics
Different materials have varying degrees of susceptibility to damage from cleaning solutions, and the composition of the stain as well as the dye used in hair color can also differ. Therefore, tailoring the cleaning solution to the specific material and stain type is crucial to avoid causing further damage to the fabric or surface.
Harsh chemicals that work well on one type of fabric may bleach or weaken another. Delicate materials like silk and wool require gentler treatment to prevent fiber damage, while synthetic fabrics may tolerate stronger cleaning agents. Additionally, some materials are porous, like upholstery or carpet, which can make stain removal more challenging. By using the appropriate solution for each material, you increase the likelihood of effectively removing the stain while minimizing the risk of harm to the fabric or surface. For example:
- Cotton and Synthetic Fabrics: You can use a solution made with liquid dish soap and cold water.
- When dealing with wool or silk, it’s best to use a mild detergent .
- Leather stains may be tackled with a leather-specific stain remover.
- For carpet and tile, topt for a solution of warm water and mild detergent to efficiently remove hair dye stains.
FAQs
- Can hair dye stains be removed from all types of fabric? While most hair dye stains can be removed from fabrics, some materials may be more difficult than others. For example, silk and wool are delicate fabrics that require special care when removing stains.
- Is it safe to use bleach to remove hair dye stains? Bleach can be effective in removing hair dye stains, but it should only be used on white or colorfast fabrics. Never use bleach on colored fabrics, as it can cause the colors to fade or change.
- What should I do if the stain persists after washing the garment? If the stain persists after washing the garment, try repeating the stain removal process using a different method or product. In some cases, it may take several attempts to fully remove the stain.
- How can I prevent hair dye stains from getting on my clothes in the first place? To prevent hair dye stains, try wearing an old shirt or covering your clothing with a towel or cape during the coloring process. You can also use petroleum jelly or a barrier cream around your hairline and ears to prevent dye from staining your skin and clothes.
- Can professional dry cleaning remove hair dye stains from clothes? Professional dry cleaners may be able to remove hair dye stains from clothes, but it’s important to let them know about the stain before dropping off the garment. Keep in mind that some stains may be too difficult to remove completely, especially if they have been left untreated for an extended period of time.
