Face paint on your collar? Fake blood on the couch cushions? Halloween is one of the most fun and messiest days of the year. Between the makeup, chocolate, candle wax, and other special effects, it's common to wake up on November 1st to unwanted stains. The good news is that most Halloween stains come out if you treat them quickly and properly. Here's how to treat the most common stains, a few mistakes to avoid, and when it's time to bring your favorite items to Shamrock Cleaners for professional treatment.
The Golden Rules of Halloween (and Anytime) Stain Removal
Before you tackle any stain, here are some good basics to remember year-round:
- Don’t wait. The longer a stain sits on the fabric, the harder it is to remove.
- Don’t rub, blot. Rubbing pushes the stain into the fibers and can spread it to a larger area. Instead, use a clean, wet cloth and lightly blot the stain.
- Keep it cold. Hot water sets many stains rather than removing them, especially protein or dye stains.
- That goes for the dryer, too. Heat from the dryer can lock a stain in for good. After you clean the item, let it air dry and check that the stain is gone before you resume normal laundering.
- Test stain removers first. Depending on the material, some stain removers can do more harm than good. Test it first on a hidden spot, like the inside of a seam, before using it on a more visible area.
How to Get Face Paint and Makeup Out of Clothes
While everyday cosmetics may wash out easily, that's not always the case for cream face paints and costume makeup usually worn for Halloween. These are typically oil-based, which makes them cling to fabric. Areas like collars, cuffs, and sleeves tend to end up with these marks no matter how careful you are.
Use a straight edge, like a knife or credit card, to scrape off any excess from the surface. Then use a clean cloth with a bit of dish soap or makeup remover to cut the oil. Work from the outside of the stain inward, so it doesn't spread. Rinse from the back of the fabric, and repeat as needed.
Note: Glitter makeup is a special case. Before you do anything else, use a lint roller or piece of tape to lift away as much glitter as possible. Once you put it through the wash, it will be everywhere. That's not so bad if you like your clothes to sparkle, but not everyone does,
How to Remove Fake Blood Stains
When dealing with real blood stains, hydrogen peroxide is a great tool for removal. But fake blood is a different story. Many formulas contain red dye that will stain if it’s left to sit on fabric. Flush the stain from the back of the fabric to force it back out the way it came in. Then apply a stain remover and allow it to sit before washing it in cold water. If the package says ‘washable,’ you’re in luck, but don’t assume. Most theatrical blood isn’t washable at all and needs a professional cleaning.
Chocolate, Caramel, and Candy Stain Removal
If you have trick-or-treaters this Halloween, you’ll probably end up with some candy smears on costumes. Sticky candy and caramel are mostly sugar, so soak those in warm (not hot) water to loosen it up and then rinse clean. Chocolate is a little different because it can contain wax and fillers. Let it firm up and scrape off as much as you can, then rinse from the back to remove the rest.
Note: Sugar stains can be invisible initially, then turn yellow or brown in storage. Even if a costume looks clean, it’s a good idea to clean it before you pack it away.
Candle Wax From Jack-o’-Lanterns
Candle wax from Halloween Jack-o’-Lanterns is easier to remove than you might think. Freeze it with an ice cube, then scrape away as much as you can. For any remaining residue, place a paper towel over the spot and briefly press a warm iron to lift the wax into the towel. Avoid using this method on synthetics, delicate materials, sequins, and glue, as it can melt them. Colored waxes can stain, so in this case, it’s best to call in a professional.
When to Leave It to the Pros
Some Halloween messes are best left to the experts, especially when the stakes are high. Bring your items to Shamrock Cleaners if you're dealing with:
- Dry-clean-only clothing or formal wear from a costume party
- Sequined, beaded, or embellished costumes
- Faux fur, leather, or suede pieces
- Vintage, heirloom, or handmade costumes
- Rented costumes that need to be returned in good condition
- Stains that didn't come out after your first attempt
Our team knows how to treat tricky stains without damaging delicate fabrics or details. That way, your favorite pieces are ready for next Halloween, or the next party on your calendar.
Drop Off Anytime With Shamrock Cleaners
Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, and we know the cleanup doesn't always happen during business hours. Our 24/7 Self-Serve Kiosk at 3501 Maclay Blvd S. lets you drop off costumes and clothes whenever it's convenient, even on Sunday morning. Prefer to skip the trip entirely? Sign up for our complimentary Pickup & Delivery service, and we'll come to you.
For more than 25 years, Shamrock Cleaners has helped Tallahassee look its best. Don't let a little fake blood haunt your wardrobe. Bring it to us, and we'll take it from there.
Schedule a Pickup → | Call us at (850) 893-7220
