What Cleans Makeup From the Top of a Dresser?

Acetone Remover

• Nail-polish remover can be used to remove nail-polish stains from a wooden dresser. Blot the stain with a clean cloth after applying the nail-polish remover to the stain. You may need to repeat this treatment several times to get all the stain out. Follow up by washing your dresser with a mild detergent and warm water.

Soaps

• Foundations, powders, concealers, cream blushers, eye shadows, eyeliners and lip pencils all contain oils that can be difficult to remove from your dresser once they’ve caused a stain. Try pouring undiluted dish-washing liquid or shampoo on the stain and let it soak for several minutes. Waterless hand cleaner may also work. Rinse by carefully wiping the area with a damp cloth containing warm water, and blot dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Mineral Spirits

• Mineral spirits is a volatile liquid that’s distilled from petroleum. It’s poisonous and flammable, but it is effective in removing greasy makeup stains. Use it in a well-ventilated area. Don’t smoke or use near flames. Avoid contact with your skin or clothing. Soak the stained area with mineral spirits Cover with sawdust, talcum powder or fuller’s earth. Let it sit for a while, to give the sawdust or other absorbent material a chance to soak up the grease. Clean and repeat if necessary. This method of removing a makeup stain will damage the finish on your dresser, and you will need to refinish it. An alternate method involves making a paste out of the sawdust and the mineral spirits and applying it to the stain, allowing it to dry before removal.

Oil

• Vegetable oil, mineral oil or even WD40 can be used to clean up oily makeup stains like lipstick. Rub the oil into the stain and let it sit for several minutes. Wipe the oil up. Pour a little undiluted dish detergent on the stain and rub it in to remove the oil. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Protect the wood with wax or polish.

Other

• Rubbing alcohol is an effective way to break down grease. Pour rubbing alcohol on the stain and blot with a clean paper towel. You can also place a piece of newspaper or other blotter over the stain and press with a warm iron. The heat will help melt the grease and the paper will absorb it. Repeat if necessary. The finish on your dresser may be damaged by this method and you may need to apply a new finish.