How to Remove Makeup from Wood

Wood stain is a product applied to wood to help beautify it – no further makeup is necessary, nor recommended. All jokes aside, removing makeup from wood is fairly easy unless the makeup has soaked deep into the grain of the wood. However, even if it has soaked in, it may still be removable. Follow the steps below.

• A slice of bread
• A remover (choose one):
  • Makeup remover
  • Oil, such as olive oil
  • Lotion
  • White vinegar
• A soft cloth
• A solvent (last resort):
  • Rubber gloves
  • Isopropyl alcohol or
  • Mineral spirits

1. First, try wiping up the makeup with a slice of bread, preferably white bread if you have it. Do not use a seed bread as the seeds could scratch the wood.
2. If the bread doesn’t work to soak up the makeup, select one of the removers from the list above based on what you have available. If using white vinegar, start by using a mixture of one part white vinegar in two parts water. If needed, you can make the mixture stronger until you use full strength white vinegar if needed, but it is best to use the most mild option first.
3. Wet a soft cloth with the remover or your choice, then test it on a small hidden area of the wood to be sure it’s safe.
4. If safe, rub the remover over the makeup spot. As the stain is transferred to the cloth, rotate the cloth to a clean area. Add more remover to the cloth as needed.
5. If the makeup is stubborn, as may be especially true for waterproof makeup products, try using a different remover. If none of the removers work, a solvent may be necessary. Choose one from the list above, and be sure to test it on a small hidden area first before using it on the stain. Also be sure to follow all safety precautions as most solvents are hazardous chemicals; wear gloves and ventilate the area at least.
6. When the makeup is gone, clean the area with a mild soap and water to remove any residue from the remover.

• If all else fails, try Nature’s Miracle Hard Floor Stain and Odor Remover or a similar pet enzyme product that is safe for wood. These products can be found on the pet aisle of most supermarkets, at most pet stores, as well as online.

• Natural Stain Removal Secrets by Deborah L. Martin
• The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Green Cleaning by Mary Findley and Linda Formichelli