How to Remove Makeup from Pillow Case

Makeup on Pillowcases: A Very Common Problem

Falling asleep with makeup on is something most of us have done — and the result is a pillowcase covered in foundation, mascara, lipstick, or all three. The good news: pillowcases are machine washable, which gives you a big advantage. Here's how to get them completely clean.

What You'll Need

• Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
• Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes
• Dawn Ultra Dish Soap
• Carbona Liquid Stain Devils
• OxiClean White Revive Power Paks (for white pillowcases)
• Microfiber cloths
• Cotton pads

Step-by-Step: Removing Makeup from Pillowcase

1. Pre-treat with micellar water first. Soak a cotton pad with Bioderma Micellar Water and press onto each makeup stain. Let sit 3–5 minutes. Micellar water is specifically formulated to dissolve all types of makeup — foundation, mascara, lipstick, and eyeshadow.
2. Blot each stain with a clean microfiber cloth. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.
3. Apply Dawn dish soap to any oily stains (foundation, lipstick). Work in a few drops of Dawn Ultra Dish Soap gently with your fingers. Let sit 5 minutes.
4. Apply Carbona Stain Devils to any remaining pigment stains (mascara, lipstick color). Carbona Liquid Stain Devils targets makeup dyes effectively. Let sit 10 minutes.
5. Rinse with cold water. Check all stains before washing.
6. Machine wash cold. For white pillowcases, add an OxiClean White Revive Power Pak to the wash for maximum stain removal and whitening. Check before drying.

By Makeup Type

• Foundation: Micellar water + Dawn dish soap
• Mascara: Micellar water; isopropyl alcohol for waterproof
• Lipstick: Micellar water + Dawn + Carbona Stain Devils
• Eyeshadow: Micellar water usually sufficient
• Self-tanner: See dedicated article — needs different treatment

How to Prevent Makeup Stains on Pillowcases

• Always remove makeup before bed — use Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes for a quick and easy nightly routine
• Use a dark-colored pillowcase if you frequently forget
• Keep a pack of makeup remover wipes on your nightstand as a reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just put a makeup-stained pillowcase straight in the washing machine?

The washing machine alone won't fully remove makeup stains — especially foundation and mascara. Always pre-treat with micellar water and Dawn dish soap before washing for best results.

How do I get old makeup stains out of pillowcases?

Soak the stained areas in micellar water for 10 minutes to rehydrate dried makeup, then apply Carbona Stain Devils and Dawn dish soap. For white pillowcases, soak in OxiClean White Revive solution for 1–6 hours before washing.

How often should I wash my pillowcase?

Dermatologists recommend washing pillowcases every 1–2 weeks — or more frequently if you wear makeup to bed. Regular washing prevents makeup, oil, and bacteria buildup that can cause skin breakouts.