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Removing self-tanner from clothing

6 July 2026 · MARC INBANE · 1 min read

Spilled self-tanner on your clothes? Discover whether it washes out and how to remove self-tanner stains from fabric without letting them set.

“ Most stains occur when clothing comes into contact with a still-damp layer too soon ”

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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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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Good to know.

Yes, in the same way as clothing: rinse with cold water, pre-treat the stain and wash on a cold cycle. Dark towels and sheets also help reduce visibility while your tan is developing.

No, avoid hot water. Heat can actually set the stain into the fibres. Always use cold water and air-dry or hang-dry the item until the stain is gone.

A set-in stain is more difficult to remove, but repeatedly pre-treating it with cold water and soap or vinegar often still helps. For delicate fabrics, it is best to consult a professional cleaner.