hair color application How To Remove Hair Dye Stains From Your Bathroom And Countertops

If you’re new to dyeing your hair at home, and have yet to find the perfect science behind how to achieve your desired hair color without making a massive mess, you're not alone. While you might be thrilled with your DIY results, that may be short-lived once you get a look at the aftermath in your bathroom. We’ve all been there — finishing up an at-home hair coloring session only to realize your sink or tub resemble something straight out of a murder scene from your favorite crime TV show. So, how does one remove hair dye stains from the shower, tub, counters, and other furniture it may have left its mark on? We’re sharing eight easy options 一 that you probably already have at home 一 to try below.

1. Hair Spray 

Hairspray can be used for more than just setting your hairstyle. In fact, it can be used to keep hair dye stains from setting into your furniture. If you catch the hair dye mess quickly, spritz the stain with hairspray 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 likely have on-hand: nail polish remover. 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. 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. 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 

Alternatively, you can use vinegar to make a baking soda paste. Vinegar has a high acidity level making it an effective cleansing agent. Mix the two together and apply to the hair dye stain. Depending on the size of the stain, 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. 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 to remove.

6. Bleach

We mentioned that bathroom cleaning products often contain bleach, and that’s because bleach is a great cleaning agent, and 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.

7. Baking Soda And Water 

You may be familiar with baking soda from your baking endeavors, but it’s also great for cleaning, and in this case, removing stains. To make a baking soda paste which is great for scrubbing, simply mix baking soda with a bit of water. Rub the mixture onto the stain with a sponge until it disappears. 

8. Dish Soap 

If your hair dye 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. Don’t give up too soon — this method may take a bit of elbow grease. 

Next: How To Dye Your Hair Blonde At Home

Edited by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photo Credit: Shalwah Evans