Stain Removal

How to remove sunscreen stains from towels and linen

Sunscreen leaves stubborn yellow-orange marks. Here is how to shift them.

Rinse in cold water, treat the stain with dish soap or a stain remover, then wash at 40C. Never tumble dry until the mark is gone.

Why sunscreen stains are so stubborn

Most sunscreens contain avobenzone and mineral oils. When they meet minerals in tap water they leave a yellow-orange mark that heat sets permanently.

Step by step

1. Rinse the stain under cold running water from the back of the fabric.
2. Rub in a little dish soap or a solvent-based stain remover and leave for 15 minutes.
3. Wash at 40C with a full dose of detergent.
4. Air dry and check before tumble drying — heat locks the stain in.

If the marks are already set, our team can treat beach towels and linen for you.

Frequently asked questions

Will bleach remove sunscreen stains?

Chlorine bleach can make them worse by reacting with the minerals. Use an oxygen-based stain remover instead.

Advice from SOAK Laundry, Dee Why NSW. Book a laundry pickup or call 0460 120 120.