You did everything right: packed the sunscreen, protected your skin, had a great day in the sun – and then came home to find your favorite white shirt covered in weird yellow or orange sunscreen stains.
It’s one of summer’s sneakiest laundry problems. The stains often don’t show up until after you’ve washed your clothes, and once they do, they’re stubborn. A normal wash cycle won’t cut it – and bleach might even make it worse.
But don’t worry. Whether it’s a fresh smudge or a full-blown rust-colored stain, there are ways to save your summer wardrobe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to treat sunscreen stains at home, which products to avoid, and when it’s time to call in the pros at Kean’s.
Why Sunscreen Stains Clothes – Especially White Ones
You wouldn’t expect a little sunscreen to ruin your favorite white shirt – but it happens all the time. The problem often starts with a common sunscreen ingredient called avobenzone. It’s great for protecting your skin from UVA rays, but when it mixes with hard water (water that contains high levels of iron), a chemical reaction can occur. The result? Rust-colored stains that often show up after the garment has been washed.
These stains are especially noticeable on white or light-colored clothing, and they’re tricky to remove. Many people instinctively reach for bleach, but both chlorine and oxygenated bleach can make avobenzone stains even darker. That’s why understanding the cause is the first step to treating sunscreen stains the right way.
Start Simple: Rinse and Blot
The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the fabric. As soon as you notice sunscreen on your clothing, rinse the area with cool water. If possible, rinse from the back of the fabric to push the residue out rather than deeper into the fibers.
Next, gently blot the spot with a clean towel or cloth. Avoid rubbing – that can push the oils further in or stretch the fabric. The goal here isn’t to remove the stain entirely, but to stop it from setting while you prepare for deeper cleaning. Even this quick step can make a big difference in how well the stain lifts later.
Choose the Right Stain Fighter – and Avoid Bleach
Once you’ve rinsed and blotted, it’s time to treat the stain directly. For fresh sunscreen stains, apply a small amount of liquid dish soap or gentle laundry detergent to the area. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes to help break down oils and residue, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
If the stain has already turned orange or rust-colored – especially on white clothing – you’ll need a more targeted approach. One effective method is the lemon juice and salt trick: apply lemon juice to the stain, sprinkle generously with salt, and let it sit overnight. The natural acidity helps lift discoloration without harsh chemicals.
For tougher cases, you can try a rust stain remover like Rust Away. These products are designed to dissolve iron-based stains, but use them with caution – they’re strong acids and can damage delicate fabrics. Always read the label carefully, spot test on an inconspicuous area, and wear gloves if needed.
Whatever you do, skip the bleach. Chlorine and even oxygen-based bleaches can react with avobenzone and actually make the stain worse, turning light discoloration into a permanent, darker mark.
Wash With Care, and Always Check Before Drying
Once you’ve treated the stain, it’s time to wash – but don’t just toss it in with the rest of your laundry. Check the care label and wash the item using the warmest water temperature that’s safe for the fabric. Use a gentle cycle and avoid adding bleach or harsh detergents.
After washing, inspect the stained area before drying. If any trace of the stain remains, don’t put it in the dryer. Heat can set the stain permanently, making it nearly impossible to remove. Instead, repeat the stain treatment process and wash again.
When the stain is gone, air drying is your safest bet, especially for lightweight or delicate summer fabrics. Lay flat or hang dry out of direct sunlight to avoid additional fading or fabric damage.
Still Have a Sunscreen Stain? Time to Call Kean’s
Some sunscreen stains just won’t budge, especially if they’ve had time to set or if the fabric is delicate. That’s where the professionals come in. At Kean’s, we know how to treat tricky stains like sunscreen, sweat, rust, and more using industry-grade techniques that are safe for your clothes.
Whether you’re dealing with a favorite white shirt, swim cover-up, or vacation outfit that needs saving, we’re here to help. We’ll assess the fabric, identify the stain type, and apply the right treatment – no guesswork, no damage, just clean clothes.
Pro tip: If you’re ever unsure whether to DIY or dry clean, stop by Kean’s and let our stain removal experts take a look. It’s what we’re here for!
