How to Effectively Remove Nail Polish Remover from Clothes: A Step-by-Step Guide

The removal of nail polish remover from clothes can be quite challenging, especially at home. While many try to use DIY remedies, these often result in unwanted fabric discoloration or damage. For the best results, it is highly recommended to take stained garments to a professional dry cleaner equipped with appropriate solvents and techniques. However, if professional help is not available, follow this detailed guide to minimize damage and potential color changes.

Choosing Professional Help

Defense Against Color Change: Even with professional assistance, there is no guarantee that the stain will be completely removed without some degree of color change. Therefore, it is crucial to bring your stained clothing to a highly trusted dry cleaner who can spot treat the area. Experienced dry cleaners use a variety of solvents to gently remove the stain. After treatment, the garment undergoes a rigorous cleaning process to ensure no residue remains.

Home Remedies: A Last Resort

For those who prefer to attempt home remedies, follow these steps to remove nail polish remover from clothes:

Preparation: Warm Water and Heavy Duty Soap

Start by pre-soaking the garment in the warmest water possible (without damaging the fabric), along with heavy-duty laundry soap and any additional boosters you have at hand. It is crucial not to let the garment dry or cool down during this process.

Create a Matte Layer: Paper Towels

Place a thick layer of paper towels under the stained area to absorb as much nail polish remover as possible. Pour acetone or nail polish remover over the stained area so it soaks into the paper towels. Blot the area gently with a dry paper towel. Replace the paper towels if they get saturated, as you may need to repeat this process a few times to ensure all the remover is removed.

Regular Laundry Procedure

After ensuring all the nail polish remover is removed, run the garment through a regular wash and dry cycle to further clean the area. Be cautious as some colors may still be affected.

Stubborn Stains

If the stain persists, try using a more aggressive method:

Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with cold water or one part white vinegar with two parts cold water to make a less harsh solution.

Apply the Solution and Blot

Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stained area, working from the outside toward the center to prevent spreading.

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the area with cold water to remove any soap or vinegar residue. If the stain is still visible, you may need to repeat the process.

Testing Alcohol

As a last resort for more stubborn stains, use rubbing alcohol:

Test the Fabric Apply Gently Final Steps

Wash the garment according to the care label instructions, and let it air dry to prevent setting the stain permanently.

Additional Tips

To avoid damaging or discoloring the fabric, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first before applying it to the stain. Moreover, if the fabric is delicate or the stain is particularly difficult, consider bringing the item to a professional cleaner for expert treatment. By following these detailed steps, you can effectively remove nail polish remover from your clothes, even if you can't get professional help.