hair color application How to Remove Hair Dye Stains From Your Bathroom and Countertops

We’ve all been there — you’re finishing up an at-home hair coloring session only to realize your sink or tub resembles something straight out of a crime scene from your favorite TV show. Whether you’re new to dyeing your hair at home or are a hair dye pro, it can be hard to achieve your desired hair color without making a massive mess. So, how does one remove hair dye stains from the shower, tub, counters, and other furniture it may have left its mark on? Try these eight easy options below.

1. Hairspray 

Hairspray can be used for more than just setting your hairstyle, as the hair care staple can also be used to keep hair dye stains from setting into your furniture. If you catch the hair dye mess quickly, spritz the stain with a hairspray like the L’Oréal Paris Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented and blot it away with a paper towel or rag. This works because hairspray is typically alcohol-based.

2. Nail Polish Remover 

It’s time to turn to another beauty item you’ll likely have on-hand: nail polish remover. An acetone-based nail polish remover is a great option for removing hair dye stains from your shower, tub, and counters. Use a cotton ball to apply the nail polish remover to the stained area, then wipe it away. Just keep in mind that this is not a good option for stains that are on a painted or finished surface, as the acetone will remove that too.

3. Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can also help to remove a hair dye stain. Apply some onto a cotton ball and rub it over the stained area, but keep in mind that this is another method to steer clear of when it comes to wood finishes and painted surfaces.

4. Vinegar and Baking Soda 

To try this method, you’ll need to mix a bit of vinegar and baking soda together to make a paste (you should have more baking soda than vinegar in order to avoid making it too liquid), then apply it to the hair dye stain. Depending on the size of the stain, you should use a sponge or old toothbrush to scrub away until the stain is gone. If the stain is still there after rinsing, repeat as needed.

5. Baking Soda and Water 

A baking soda paste made with just water can also work on a hair dye stain. Simply mix the baking soda with a bit of water, then rub the pasta onto the stain with a sponge until it disappears. 

6. Bathroom Cleaner 

It’s a good idea to give your regular bathroom cleaner a try, particularly for stains in your shower and tub. These cleaners are typically formulated with bleach and may be able to remove the stain if you catch it quickly enough. Apply the cleaner to the affected area and scrub with a porous sponge.

7. Bleach

If you need a stronger fix, bleach (which seems like an obvious solution to some people) is a great cleaning agent that can be used to remove hair dye stains in your bathroom. Mix equal parts bleach and water, apply it to the stain, and let the formula sit for about 10 minutes. When you wipe the bleach away, the stain should wipe away with it.

8. Dish Soap 

If your hair dye stain hasn’t been sitting for long, you may be able to get away with using regular liquid dish soap to remove it from your surfaces. Apply a liberal amount of soap to the stain and use a sponge to scrub the area.

Next: How To Dye Your Hair at Home: Our Best At-Home Hair Color Options

Edited by: Témi Adebowale, Photo Credit: Shalwah Evans