How to Get Sun Cream Stains Out of Clothes (Without the Fuss)
Sunshine, sand, and SPF - it’s what summer’s all about. But if you’ve ever discovered yellow patches on your favourite top after a day in the sun, you’ve experienced the dreaded sun cream stains. Don’t worry - with a few clever household tips and the right products, sun cream stain removal doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it’s easier than you think.
This guide will show you exactly how to remove sun cream stains from white cotton, dark clothes, and everything in between - using affordable laundry heroes available right here at Poundland.
Why Sun Cream Leaves Stains on Clothes
The culprit behind those stubborn yellow marks is avobenzone, which is a common UV-filtering ingredient in many sun protection products. When it mixes with water or sweat and reacts with laundry detergent, it can create those telltale orange or brownish stains, especially on white clothing.
This doesn’t mean you should stop using SPF - protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is a non-negotiable. It just means it’s time to level up your laundry game with a few simple sun cream stain removal hacks.
How to Remove Sun Cream Stains: Step-by-Step
Getting sun cream stains out of clothes starts with quick action and the right method. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Pre-Treat the Stain
Act fast. Sun creams often contain oils that quickly penetrate clothing fibres, leaving behind stubborn marks. As soon as you spot a stain, gently blot any excess sun cream without rubbing it in. Then, apply a small amount of laundry detergent like Persil Bio Laundry Washing Liquid Detergent directly to the stained area. Let it sit for a maximum of 15 minutes to break down the oils.
For tougher marks, try a sun cream stain remover like the Vanish Stain Remover. Just dampen the fabric and gently press - don’t rub - the product into the stain.
Step 2: Wash as Normal
Once you've pre-treated stubborn sun cream stains, pop the garment into the washing machine with your regular load. Add your usual detergent and wash at 30°C or 40°C, depending on the fabric care label. The detergent will continue to break down any remaining oils and residues from the sun cream, leaving your clothes fresh and stain-free by the end of the cycle. We’d recommend DAZ Whites & Colours Washing Liquid for a brightening boost.
Step 3: Dry Smart
Air-dry your clothes outdoors, if possible. Sunlight acts as a natural bleach, which helps lift any lingering yellow tinges from white fabrics. Avoid tumble drying until you’re sure the stain is gone, as heat can set it permanently.
Best Way to Remove Sun Cream Stains from White Clothes
White clothes are particularly prone to sun cream stains. For a natural stain removal method, try soaking the stained area in lemon juice, then lay the garment out in direct sunlight for a few hours. This combination works to gently bleach the garment, which can be brilliant for restoring brightness to dull or stained white clothing.
How to Get Sun Cream Stains Out of White Cotton
White cotton absorbs oil easily, so you’ll want to treat these stains immediately. Rinse the fabric under cold water first, then use a targeted product like Persil Non-Bio or Vanish Stain Remover directly on the stain. Avoid hot water as it can lock the stain in.
Quick Tips for Success
- Always check the care label before treating any stain.
- Use a colour-safe stain remover for coloured garments.
- Wash stained items separately to avoid transfer.
- Never tumble dry until the stain has completely gone.
Say Goodbye to Sun Cream Stains with Poundland
Removing sun cream stains from clothes doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re dealing with everyday tees or delicate whites, Poundland has a range of laundry essentials that make clean-up quick and easy.
With the right products and a little know-how, sun cream stains won’t stand a chance. Shop in-store for trusted laundry favourites today.
