How to Get Crayon Out of Clothes: A Complete Guide to Saving Your Favorite Outfits

Kids and crayons—an inseparable duo that often leaves parents scrambling for solutions. One minute, your little one is creating a masterpiece on paper, and the next, they’re testing their skills on their clothes. Before you despair and deem that favorite shirt a lost cause, take a breath. Believe it or not, there’s a plethora of ways to tackle those waxy, colorful stains. This guide will walk you through the best methods to get crayon out of clothes, ensuring that you can breathe new life into your wardrobe.

Understanding the Stain

What Makes Crayon Stains Tricky?

Crayon stains are more than just colorful marks. They’re a blend of wax and pigment, which means you’re dealing with both a dye and a greasy substance. This combo makes the stain cling stubbornly to fabric, often laughing in the face of a regular wash cycle. But don’t worry—understanding the enemy is the first step in conquering it.

Common Culprits: Which Fabrics Suffer the Most?

Not all fabrics react to crayon stains in the same way. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are more absorbent, so they tend to soak up more of the crayon’s wax and pigment. Synthetic fibers, while not entirely immune, might resist the stain slightly better but can still end up looking messy.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Crayon Out of Clothes

1. Scrape Off the Excess

Before you dive into any cleaning method, start by removing as much of the crayon as possible. Use a dull knife or the edge of a spoon to gently scrape off the excess crayon without spreading it further into the fabric.

2. Freeze the Stain

Pop the stained garment in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Freezing makes the wax brittle, so you can scrape off even more crayon once it’s hardened.

3. Apply Heat

Ironing isn’t just for wrinkles! Place a paper towel or a brown paper bag over the stain and iron on a low setting. The heat will melt the crayon, and the paper will absorb the wax. Replace the paper as needed until no more wax transfers.

4. Use a Stain Remover

Next, apply a stain remover or a dab of heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent directly onto the stain. Gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to break down the crayon’s wax and pigment.

5. Wash as Usual

Wash the garment in the hottest water recommended on the care label. Adding a bit of baking soda to your regular detergent can boost its stain-fighting power. Check the stain before drying the clothes; if it’s still there, repeat the previous steps. Drying can set the stain, making it harder to remove.

Crayon Catastrophe: How to Get Crayon Off Wall

Alternative Methods: How to Get Crayon Out of Clothes

Method 1: Vinegar and Baking Soda

• Sprinkle baking soda over the stain.
• Pour a small amount of vinegar over the baking soda to create a fizzing reaction.
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush.
• Rinse and wash as usual.

Method 2: WD-40

• Spray a small amount of WD-40 directly on the stain.
• Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the wax.
• Dab the area with a clean cloth to lift the crayon.
• Apply dish soap to remove the WD-40 residue, then wash as usual.

Method 3: Rubbing Alcohol

• Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or cloth.
• Blot the stained area gently, working from the outside in to prevent spreading.
• Once the crayon starts to lift, rinse and wash the garment.

FAQs

What should I do if the crayon stain doesn’t come out completely the first time?

Don’t throw in the towel just yet! Crayon stains can be stubborn, so you might need to repeat the cleaning process a couple of times. Patience and persistence are key.

Can I use a commercial stain remover on crayon stains?

Absolutely! Many commercial stain removers are designed to tackle tough, waxy stains. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the product for the best results.

Is there a way to prevent crayon stains on clothes?

Keeping a close eye on your little artists can help, but accidents happen. Consider setting up a designated “art zone” with smocks or old clothes that are already stained.

Are there any fabrics that can’t be saved from crayon stains?

Most fabrics can be saved with the right approach, but delicate fabrics like silk or wool might be trickier. In such cases, it might be best to consult a professional cleaner.

Conclusion

Crayon stains don’t have to spell the end of your favorite clothes. With a bit of elbow grease and the right techniques, you can effectively remove those pesky marks. From freezing and scraping to applying heat and using household items like vinegar and baking soda, there are multiple ways to restore your garments to their former glory. So the next time your kid’s creativity goes beyond the paper, you’ll be ready to handle it with ease!