glow academy
Removing self-tanner from clothing
6 July 2026 · MARC INBANE · 1 min read
“ Most stains occur when clothing comes into contact with a still-damp layer too soon ”

A swipe of self-tanner on your shirt, bedding or towel can be annoying, but in most cases it can be washed out easily. The visible bronze colour is largely a water-soluble guide colour, which will almost completely disappear with the right approach. Acting quickly and washing with cold water are key. You can read more about self-tanner in general in our complete self-tanning guide.
Can you get self-tanner stains out of clothing?
Yes, in most cases self-tanner can be washed out of clothing. The bronze-coloured guide colour is water-soluble and will largely wash out with a normal cold wash. Treat the stain quickly and avoid hot water and the dryer, as heat can set the stain.
The faster you treat a fresh stain, the more completely it will disappear. On sturdy, washable fabrics, this usually works well. With delicate or non-washable fabrics, extra care is needed and a slight tint may remain.
How do you remove self-tanner from clothing?
First rinse the stain with cold water, pre-treat it with some stain-removing soap or a little vinegar, and then wash the garment on a cold cycle. Check whether the stain has disappeared before putting it in the dryer.
Work in four steps: rinse the stain immediately with cold water from the back of the fabric, gently rub in some soap or a few drops of vinegar, let it sit briefly, and then wash as usual on a low temperature. Hang the garment to dry and repeat the treatment if a shadow is still visible. Only use the dryer once the stain is completely gone.
How do you prevent stains on your clothing?
Let self-tanner dry for 3 to 5 minutes before getting dressed, then wear loose, dark clothing until the colour has fully developed.
Most stains occur when clothing rubs against a layer that is still damp. Plan getting dressed after the drying time. You can find the full step-by-step routine for a flawless application in our guide on how to apply self-tanner without streaks.
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