Makeup products are one of the most common messes for carpets. In order to get the best cleaning results, you need to first know what type of makeup spill you’re dealing with. The best thing of all, most of these stains can be cleaned with simple household items, and cleaning is a breeze! Let’s analyze the stains…

There are oil-based cosmetics that would include foundation, concealer, lipstick & lip gloss, cream eye shadows and blushes. Then, you have you’re powder-based cosmetics which include powder foundation, eye shadow, and glitter.

For removing nail polish drips from the carpet, you typically can use any non-acetone nail polish remover to get the stain out.  After you use the nail polish remover, you can either use a little dishwashing soap and water to get the remaining stain out.  Goo-Gone and Windex (glass cleaner) also works great for getting nail polish out. If the nail polish is old and dried onto the carpet, use a spoon or knife to scrape off the hardened polish, and then apply nail polish remover. You have several choices when dealing with nail polish stains, and most of the products you already have in your home!

There are many specific products that are geared towards oily-based products; Goo-Gone is perfect for these stains. You can also use Pine Sol, WD-40, Resolve, and baking soda. Dishwashing soap is a universal cleaning agent for many carpet stains since it’s a mild soap (preferably without bleach!). Obviously for cleaning dishes, dishwashing soap breaks up grease, and it will do exactly the same when it comes to carpet stains. These products will help breakup the slick, sticky ingredients. First, spray the area with the treating solution, and allow it to sit and work for 10 minutes. It’s important to not rub oil stains! Next, rinse the treated area with warm water and continuously dab the liquid solution. Have a couple white cloths or rags handy so you can switch out once your rag is dirty.

Powder-based cosmetics are much easier to remove than oil products. The first step to pick up the product is to vacuum the area to lift the excess spill. Next, you can either use a cleaning product like Resolve or just dishwashing liquid. Pour a little warm water on the stain then add the dishwashing liquid and rub the stain back and forth. Rinse with more warm water and repeat the steps if needed.

For removing mascara and liquid eyeliner, shaving cream works like magic. Shaving cream is essentially just foam soap. On the other hand, you can always revert back to your trusty old dishwashing liquid. It’s advised to not use actual makeup remover on your carpets. For waterproof mascara or eyeline, try dabbing a waterproof makeup remover on the spot.

Always remember to relax and don’t get bent out of shape, mostly all makeup stains can be removed! But, if your stains seem to remain, then it’s a good idea to call a professional carpet cleaner. They are very knowledgeable and know the trick to getting out pesky stains!