Getting eyelash glue out of clothes can be somewhat tricky due to its bonding properties. However, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove the glue safely without damaging your clothing.
Step 1: Scrape Off Excess Glue
Before you apply any liquid solutions, gently scrape off any excess glue from the fabric using a dull knife or a plastic scraper. Be careful not to tear or stretch the fabric as you do this.
Step 2: Apply Oil-Based Remover
After scraping off the excess, you can use an oil-based substance such as coconut oil or olive oil to break down the adhesive. Apply a small amount of oil to a cotton ball or a clean cloth and rub it onto the glue stain. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to soften the adhesive.
Step 3: Gently Blot the Stain
Using a different clean cloth, gently blot the stain. The oil should have loosened the glue, enabling you to lift it from the fabric. Avoid rubbing vigorously as this can spread the glue or damage the clothing.
Step 4: Pre-treat with Laundry Detergent
Once the glue starts to lift, you can pre-treat the area with a liquid laundry detergent. Apply a small amount directly to the stain and gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for a few minutes.
Step 5: Launder as Usual
Wash the clothing item following the care label instructions. It’s best to use the warmest water setting safe for the fabric. Do not use hot water as heat could set the glue making it even harder to remove.
Step 6: Air Dry
After washing, check to see if the stain is gone. If it is, let the clothing air dry instead of using a dryer since heat could set any remaining stain permanently. If the stain persists, you may need to repeat the previous steps.
Step 7: Repeat if Necessary
If the glue is still present, you may want to repeat the previous steps or try a commercial glue remover. Always check the product’s suitability for your type of fabric and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips and Warnings
- Test First: Before applying oils or detergent, especially when dealing with colored and delicate fabrics, test the removers on a small, inconspicuous area first.
- Avoid Heat: Do not apply heat to the stain as this could set the glue, making it more difficult to remove.
- No Rubbing: Rubbing the glue may cause it to embed further into the fabric or spread the stain. Instead, always blot when treating the stain.
- Commercial Removers: If you decide to use a commercial adhesive remover, first ensure that it’s suitable for use on fabrics and not just for hard surfaces.
Remember that the quicker you are able to act on the stain, the higher the chances of successful removal. Waiting too long allows the adhesive to bond more firmly to the fabric fibers, making it harder to remove.
Once the stain has been successfully removed, launder the clothing one more time without any treatment to ensure all the oil and cleaning substances are washed away, leaving your garment as good as new.