Preparing for a night out with friends, you accidentally spill foundation on your carpet. No need to panic! Follow our expert guide on effectively and quickly removing makeup stains from your carpet!

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How to Remove Makeup Stains from Carpet?
Different methods can be used to clean makeup stains from carpets, depending on the material and type of makeup. While long bristle carpets may be more challenging to clean, it’s not impossible! Here are some universal methods to effectively combat these stains and restore your carpet’s pristine look!
Foundation Stains

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- If the stain is fresh, gently blot the foundation with a paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can embed the stain further into the carpet fibers, making it harder to clean.
- Apply 2–3 drops of dish soap to the stained area and gently rub it with a cloth or soft-bristled brush.
- To prevent the stain from spreading, work from the outside towards the center.
- Let the dish soap sit for a few minutes, then blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth or sponge.
- Repeat the process if the stain is still visible.
Note: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals on the carpet, as they can damage the fibers.
Read also: How to Remove Foundation Stains From White Clothes, According to Pros!
Old Makeup Stains
Highly pigmented makeup, like foundation and lipstick, can be challenging to remove from fabrics, especially if the stains have dried. To effectively clean them, follow these steps:
- Carefully scrape off dried makeup with a dull knife or spoon.
- Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Sprinkle baking soda generously over the stained area.
- Spray the vinegar and water solution on top to create a fizzing effect. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently brush the solution into the carpet with circular motions, moving from the outside to the center.
- Blot the area with paper towels to absorb any residue.
- Rinse the area, blot it dry, and let it air dry.
Eyeshadow Stains

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Removing eyeshadow stains from a carpet can be challenging due to their strong adherence to fabrics. These oil-based formulas can deeply penetrate carpet fibers, requiring prompt action to prevent a stubborn stain. Here’s how to effectively remove them:
- Mix 1 tbsp of rubbing alcohol with 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle.
- Add 2–3 drops of dish soap, shake the mixture well, and spray it onto a clean cloth.
- Blot the stained area without rubbing it in and let the solution sit for a few minutes.
- Gently rub the area with a clean sponge from the outside towards the center.
- Rinse the area, blot it dry, and repeat if necessary.
Lipstick Stains

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Oil-based lipstick stains can be stubborn and require a thorough cleaning approach. WD-40 is effective in removing grease and oil stains, but always test it on a small area first. Follow these steps to tackle lipstick stains:
- Spray WD-40 directly on the stain and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Blot the area gently with paper towels or a cloth.
- Reapply WD-40 if needed and rinse the area with warm water.
- Blot dry and allow the carpet to air dry completely.
Read also: Top 10 carpet cleaning tips – how to clean stains, spills and odors?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I remove foundation stains from my carpet?
To remove foundation stains from your carpet, start by gently blotting the stain with a paper towel to absorb excess makeup. Then, apply 2-3 drops of dish soap to the stained area and gently rub it in with a cloth or soft-bristled brush. Work from the outside towards the center to prevent spreading. Finally, blot the area with a damp cloth and repeat the process if necessary.
2. What should I avoid when cleaning makeup stains from carpets?
Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals on the carpet as they can damage the fibers. Additionally, refrain from rubbing the stain vigorously as it can embed the makeup further into the carpet, making it harder to clean.
3. How can I remove old makeup stains from my carpet?
To remove old makeup stains from your carpet, scrape off dried makeup with a dull knife or spoon. Then, create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Sprinkle baking soda over the stained area, spray the vinegar solution, let it sit, brush gently, and blot dry.
4. Why are eyeshadow stains challenging to remove from carpets?
Eyeshadow stains are challenging due to their oil-based formulas that deeply penetrate carpet fibers. Prompt action is necessary to prevent stubborn stains. Use a mixture of rubbing alcohol, warm water, and dish soap to effectively remove eyeshadow stains from your carpet.
5. How can I tackle lipstick stains on my carpet?
To tackle lipstick stains, spray WD-40 directly on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently blot the area with paper towels or a cloth. Rinse with warm water, blot dry, and allow the carpet to air dry completely.
6. Can I use WD-40 to remove other types of stains from carpets?
WD-40 is effective in removing grease and oil stains, including lipstick stains, from carpets. However, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
