4 Steps To Effectively Get Sunscreen Out of Clothes: The Easy Way!

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable when it comes to protecting your skin, but those stubborn, greasy stains it leaves on your clothes? Not so much fun. If you’ve ever thrown a perfectly good shirt into the wash only to find that the sunscreen stain didn’t budge (or worse, set in), you’re not alone.

But don’t worry—your favorite summer outfit isn’t doomed! With the right techniques, you can actually get sunscreen out of clothes effectively. No more greasy smudges, no more yellow stains—just fresh, clean fabric. Let’s break down the step-by-step process so you can save your wardrobe and keep rocking that SPF like a responsible adult.

Why Does Sunscreen Stain Clothes?

Before we jump into stain-fighting mode, let’s quickly talk about why sunscreen is such a pain to remove. The main culprit? Oils and minerals.

• Sunscreen contains oily ingredients that make it water-resistant. (Great for your skin, but terrible for fabric.)
• Some formulas contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which can leave behind white, chalky stains.
• Certain sunscreens have avobenzone, which reacts with hard water, causing orange or yellow stains.

The key to removing these stains? Act fast and use the right products.

Step 1: Immediate Actions

The quicker you act, the better! Sunscreen stains set quickly because of their oily base, so don’t let them sit too long.

• Blot (Don’t Rub!) – Use a paper towel or clean cloth to gently blot the stain. Rubbing spreads it deeper into the fabric.
• Absorb the Oil – Sprinkle baking soda, cornstarch, or baby powder over the stain to soak up excess grease. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then shake or brush it off.
• Rinse with Cold Water – Turn the fabric inside out and flush with cold water from the back of the stain to push out the residue.

Step 2: Pre-Treatment

Before throwing the garment into the wash, pre-treat it to break down the oils.

Dish Soap (Best for Fresh Stains)

• Apply a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap to the stain.
• Use your fingers or a soft toothbrush to work it in gently.
• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

White Vinegar (Great for Mineral-Based Stains)

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
• Soak the stained area for 15-20 minutes to break down minerals like zinc oxide or avobenzone.

Commercial Stain Remover (For Stubborn Stains)

• Spray or apply a laundry stain remover.
• Let it sit for 20 minutes before washing.

Step 3: Main Stain Removal Methods

Now that the stain is pre-treated, it’s time to fully remove it. Choose the method that works best for your clothing material and the severity of the stain.

Method 1: Wash with Enzyme-Based Detergent (Best Overall)

• Use a detergent with enzymes (like Tide Ultra Stain Release or Persil).
• Wash in warm or hot water (as allowed by the fabric label).
• Avoid fabric softener, as it can trap residues.

Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide (For Yellow Sunscreen Stains on Whites)

• Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts water.
• Apply directly to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
• Rinse and wash as usual.

Method 3: Baking Soda or Oxygen Bleach (For Stubborn Stains)

• Make a paste of baking soda + water, apply to the stain, and let sit for 30 minutes.
• OR soak in OxiClean solution for 1-2 hours before washing.

Method 4: Lemon Juice & Sunlight (For Natural Fabrics & Whites)

• Apply fresh lemon juice directly to the stain.
• Place the garment in direct sunlight for 1 hour (sun helps break down stains).
• Wash as usual.

Step 4: Aftercare & Prevention

• Check Before Drying – Before putting your clothes in the dryer, inspect the stain. If it’s still there, repeat the process! Heat will set the stain permanently.
• Air Dry First – Let the fabric air dry in the shade to prevent any remaining residue from baking in.
• Use a Laundry Booster – Adding 1/2 cup of white vinegar or baking soda to your wash cycle can help remove lingering oils.

How to Prevent Sunscreen Stains in the First Place

Stop sunscreen stains before they happen with these easy prevention tips!

• Let Sunscreen Dry Fully – Apply sunscreen at least 15-20 minutes before getting dressed.
• Wear Darker Clothes – Light-colored fabrics show stains more easily, especially from avobenzone-based sunscreens.
• Pre-Treat High-Risk Areas – Lightly dust baby powder or cornstarch on areas where sunscreen tends to transfer (like collars and underarms).

By following these immediate, pre-treatment, and deep-cleaning steps, you can rescue your clothes and keep your skin protected. Now, go ahead—apply that SPF guilt-free. Your laundry game is stronger than ever!