We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors. However, sometimes our favorite clothes can get stained by the sunscreen we’re using. But don’t worry – there are ways to remove those pesky stains and keep your clothes looking great! Here is a guide on how to effectively remove sunscreen stains from your clothing.
Why does sunscreen leave stains on clothes?
Sunscreen and sun oil are famously rich and creamy. Stains on clothes are often inevitable during and after application. The culprit here is the UV filters they contain, which tend to leave yellowish and white marks on textiles. The higher the sun protection factor, the more stubborn the stains can be. However, your dress, pants, or t-shirt aren’t necessarily ruined. With some simple life hacks, you can usually remove the residues easily.
Top tips for tackling sunscreen stains on clothes
All-purpose baking soda
Baking soda is a true all-purpose hero in the household. However, use it only on white clothing to avoid bleaching. Just dampen the affected area and sprinkle it with baking soda. Let it soak for half an hour, then toss the garment into the washing machine.
Dish soap to the rescue
Dish soap is a grease-fighting champ, making it a great option for stain removal. Start by blotting the sunscreen with a dry cloth, then treat the stain with dish soap before tossing the clothing into the machine. The same method works wonders with laundry soap bars.
Vinegar or lemon juice
Vinegar is another versatile household gem. Mix it with water in a 1:10 ratio in a bowl and let the clothing soak for an hour before washing it in the machine. Alternatively, you can try using lemon juice with a recommended soak time of two hours.
Preventing sunscreen stains
Unfortunately, not all light and delicate fabrics, like linen or viscose, can always be saved from sunscreen residues. To prevent stains, it’s best to let the sunscreen sink in thoroughly before dressing up.
There you have it! Say goodbye to those pesky sunscreen stains and keep your clothes looking fabulous in the summer sun. Happy sun-proofing!