Getting lash glue out of clothes can be a bit of a challenge due to its adhesive properties, but it is usually manageable with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step plan to help you deal with lash glue stains on your clothes:
1. Do Not Rub the Glue
Before you start, it’s crucial that you do not rub the glue. Rubbing can push the glue deeper into the fabric fibers, making it harder to remove.
2. Harden the Glue
Firstly, you want to harden the glue, to make it easier to remove. You can do this by placing the clothing item into a freezer for about an hour or by using an ice cube directly on the glue.
- Place the garment into a plastic bag to protect it.
- Put the bag with the garment into the freezer.
- Wait for about an hour until the glue hardens.
3. Gently Peel Off the Glue
Once the glue is hard, you can use a blunt knife or a credit card to gently scrape off the adhesive. Be careful not to damage the fabric.
- Take the garment out of the freezer.
- Use a blunt object to lift the edges of the hardened glue.
- Peel off as much as you can.
4. Treat the Stain with Solvent
If some residue remains, you can use a commercial adhesive remover, rubbing alcohol, or acetone (if it is safe for the fabric). Spot test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the garment first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
- Apply a small amount of solvent to a cotton swab or cloth.
- Gently dab at the glue residue.
- Wait for a few minutes to let the solvent work.
- Dab at the stain again, and the glue should start to loosen.
- Do not over-saturate the fabric and make sure the area is well-ventilated.
5. Wash the Garment
After treating the area, wash the garment according to its washing instructions.
- Rinse the treated area with warm water.
- Put the garment in the wash, ideally in a gentle or hand wash cycle if the fabric is delicate.
- Use a stain remover if the glue is still visible before washing.
6. Air Dry the Garment
Once the glue is out and the garment has been washed, let it air dry rather than using a dryer. High heat from the dryer could set any remaining glue, making it nearly impossible to remove.
Final Inspection and Possible Re-treatment
After the garment is dry, inspect the affected area to see if any trace of the lash glue remains. If a stain is still present, you might need to repeat the treatment process with the solvent before washing again.
Tips:
- Always check the care label on the clothing item first and follow any specific instructions that are recommended for the fabric type.
- Be careful with delicate fabrics such as silk or wool; some solvents might not be suitable.
- If you’re unsure about using a solvent, take the garment to a professional cleaner.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove lash glue from most types of clothing without causing damage to the fabric.