Buzz
Lotion on the palm of your hand.
iStockphoto.com/webphotographeerImportant Points to Remember
- For delicate fabrics such as acetate or wool, use a dry-cleaning solvent and a dry spotter to treat hand lotion stains. Apply the solvent, place an absorbent pad on top, and replace it as it soaks up the stain.
- For durable fabrics like acrylic or polyester, scrape off the excess lotion, apply an enzyme pre-soak, and wash the fabric as usual.
- For non-fabric surfaces such as wood or leather, remove the excess lotion using a suitable cleaning solution and then apply a conditioner if necessary.
They say the condition of a person's hands can reveal their age. To enhance how our hands appear, many of us use hand lotion to make the skin look younger and more hydrated. However, lotion can be a challenge when it comes to household surfaces.
How to Get Rid of Hand Lotion Stains From:
Acetate, Carpet (synthetic or wool), Fiberglass, Rayon, Silk, Triacetate, Wool
Use a damp sponge (applying gentle strokes, moving outwards from the center of the stain) to treat the area with a dry-cleaning solvent, such as K2r Spot Lifter (avoid on acetate blends) or Afta Cleaning Fluid. Apply a dry spotter to the stain and cover it with an absorbent pad soaked in dry spotter. Keep the pad in place as long as the stain continues to transfer to it, replacing the pad as it becomes saturated. Maintain the moisture on both the stain and the pad with dry spotter. For tougher stains on more durable fabrics, tamp (gently brush with light strokes) or scrape (use a blunt tool to lift off excess solids or dried stains). Then, flush (apply liquid dry-cleaning solvent to break down the stain and its residue) the area. If the stain persists, sponge with water and apply a wet spotter along with a few drops of ammonia (avoid ammonia on silk or wool). Keep the area moist and blot with an absorbent pad as needed. For tougher fabrics, tamp or scrape again to loosen the stain. Rinse with water and let it dry.
How to Eliminate Hand Lotion Stains From:
Acrylic Fabric, Cotton, Linen, Modacrylic, Nylon, Olefin, Polyester, Spandex
Gently scrape off any excess lotion. Damp the area with water and apply an enzyme presoak (follow the instructions on the label). Wait 30 minutes, then rinse with water. If possible, wash immediately. If not, allow the fabric to air dry.
How to Remove Hand Lotion Stains From:
Acrylic Plastic, Aluminum, Asphalt,
Ceramic Glass/Tile, Chromium, Copper,
Cork, Glass, Gold, Ivory, Jade,
Linoleum, Paint (matte or glossy), Pearls,
Platinum, Plexiglass, Polyurethane,
Porcelain Fixtures, Silver, Stainless Steel,
Tin, Vinyl Clothing, Vinyl Tile, Vinyl Wallcovering, Zinc
Use a cloth or sponge dipped in warm, soapy water to remove any excess lotion. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the area.
How to Eliminate Hand Lotion Stains From:
Bluestone, Brick, Concrete
Clean up any excess lotion. Wash with a mixture of washing soda or detergent (avoid soap) and water. Use a cloth or soft-bristled brush to scrub. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry.
to air dry.
How to Eliminate Hand Lotion Stains From:
Leather, Suede
Create a solution by mixing mild soap with lukewarm water. Swish the water to generate a lot of suds. Apply only the foam with a sponge. Wipe the area with a clean, dry cloth. If any sticky residue remains, test a dry-cleaning solvent on a hidden area first. Dab the solvent on the stained area using a soft cloth. Let the area dry completely. For leather, follow up with Tannery Vintage Leather Cleaner & Conditioner or Fiebing's Saddle Soap to maintain the leather's condition.
How to Remove Hand Lotion Stains From:
Wood
Mix dishwashing detergent with hot water and swish to create a lot of suds. Dip a cloth into the foam only and apply. Rinse with a clean cloth moistened with fresh water. Polish or wax as soon as possible.
Hand lotion can be a challenge for fabrics from cork to cotton, but with these stain removal tips, you'll be equipped to tackle any lotion mishap.
Publications International, Ltd.
Dry spotter:
To create a dry spotter, mix 1 part coconut oil (available at pharmacies and health food stores) with 8 parts liquid dry-cleaning solvent. Store the solution tightly capped to prevent solvent evaporation. You may also use mineral oil instead of coconut oil, though it's slightly less effective.
Caution: Dry-cleaning solvents are hazardous and flammable.
Wet spotter:
To prepare a wet spotter, combine 1 part glycerine, 1 part white dishwashing detergent, and 8 parts water. Shake well before each use. Store in a plastic squeeze bottle.
