How to Get Fake Tan Out of Mattress and Bedding

Last Updated On February 6th, 2025
How to Get Fake Tan Out of Mattress and Bedding

Key Takeaways

  • Speed Is Crucial: Treating stains within the first hour gives the best chance of removal, as DHA (the active tanning ingredient) forms stronger chemical bonds with fabric fibers over time.
  • Different Approaches Required: Fresh guide color stains are easier to remove than set DHA stains, and the cleaning method should be tailored to the fabric type, with special care needed for memory foam mattresses and delicate materials.
  • Prevention Is Essential: Using protective barriers like waterproof mattress protectors, applying tanner early in the day to allow development time before bed, and using dedicated “tanning sheets” can prevent staining and save expensive bedding from damage.

Stubborn fake tan stains can seem impossible to remove from expensive bedding and mattresses. While achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow feels amazing, dealing with the aftermath of stained bedding doesn’t have to ruin your self-tanning routine.

Whether you’re a seasoned tanner or a beginner, self-tanning mishaps can strike even the most careful beauty enthusiasts, leaving behind stubborn marks on mattresses and bedding that seem impossible to remove.

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These stains often look worse than they actually are, and with the right approach, you can save your bedding from permanent damage. The key lies in understanding what causes these stains and knowing exactly how to treat them based on your specific bedding type.

Whether you’re dealing with fresh stains from last night’s tanning session or discovering week-old marks, this guide will walk you through proven methods to rescue your bedding and mattress.

Tackling these stains can save you hundreds of dollars in ruined bedding. You’ll also learn smart prevention strategies to help you maintain your glow without sacrificing your favorite sheets.

Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary

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About Fake Tan

Self-tanning products contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source a color additive that reacts with your skin’s amino acids to create that sought-after bronze glow indoors. Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source But while a chemical tanner can be Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source better Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source than Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source a UV tan Verified Source U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Part of America’s Department of Health and Human Services and dedicated to providing accurate health information. View source  (though not risk free Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source ), it doesn’t discriminate between skin and fabric. Most sunless tanners Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source also include guide colors and bronzers that can transfer immediately to your bedding, creating visible stains within minutes of contact.

As self-tanning becomes increasingly popular, more people face the frustrating reality of stained sheets, pillowcases, and mattresses. Improper application or simple impatience can leave tanner marks on fabric, making it one of the most common beauty-related household problems.

The issue becomes even more prevalent during summer months when self-tanning usage peaks, leading to countless ruined bed linens.

Why Fake Tan Stains Are Challenging to Remove

Fake tan creates two distinct types of stains—the immediate transfer of the guide color and the developed DHA stain Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source that appears hours later. The chemical reaction between DHA Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source and fabric fibers creates a bond that strengthens over time, making older stains particularly stubborn to remove.

Unlike regular stains that sit on the surface, fake tan penetrates deep into fabric fibers, creating a chemical reaction similar to what happens on your skin. Heat from your body and bed warming make the stains set faster and deeper into the fabric.

Most regular cleaning products can’t break down these bonds effectively, and aggressive scrubbing often makes the situation worse by spreading the stain and damaging the fabric.

Importance of Quick Action

Speed becomes your greatest ally when dealing with fake tan stains. Every minute counts when it comes to preventing permanent damage.

Immediate action can prevent the DHA from fully developing and bonding with fabric fibers, significantly increasing your chances of complete stain removal.

Fresh stains respond better to cleaning methods because the chemical reaction hasn’t fully set, making them easier to lift from fabrics. The first three hours after a stain occurs provide your best window of opportunity for successful removal, as the DHA hasn’t completely bonded with the fabric proteins.

Waiting too long allows the stain to oxidize and set deeper into the fibers, potentially making it permanent. Stains treated within the first hour have a better chance of complete removal compared to those left overnight.

How Fake Tan Stains

Before you tackle fake tan stains, knowing what you’re up against can help you choose the right removal method. The science behind self-tanning stains explains why some removal methods work better than others.

Chemical Composition of Self-Tanning Products

Modern self-tanners are complex formulas containing more than just the active tanning ingredient. These products typically include DHA as the primary tanning agent, along with bronzers, dyes, moisturizers, and preservatives.

Most formulas contain additional colorants that provide an immediate bronze effect, helping users see where they’ve applied the product. These guide colors can transfer instantly to fabrics, unlike the DHA reaction that develops over time.

The moisturizing agents and emulsifiers in self-tanners make the product spread easily on skin, but these same ingredients can also help stains penetrate deeper into fabrics.

How DHA Affects Fabrics

DHA works by reacting with amino acids on the surface of materials, whether that’s your skin or your favorite cotton sheets. When DHA meets fabric fibers, it triggers a chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction, which is the same process that browns food when you cook it.

This reaction changes the molecular structure of the fabric’s surface, creating a bond that becomes stronger as time passes. Unlike surface-level stains, DHA actually alters the chemical composition of the fabric fibers.

The warmth of your body temperature and bedding environment accelerates this reaction, making bed stains particularly challenging compared to stains on other surfaces.

Different Types of Stains (Fresh vs. Set)

Fresh fake tan stains appear as wet marks that haven’t yet fully reacted with the fabric. These stains contain both the guide color and unreacted DHA, making them easier to remove if caught quickly.

Set stains have gone through the complete Maillard reaction, Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source creating a chemical bond with the fabric that’s much harder to break. These brown marks can appear darker than fresh stains and often have distinct edges.

Color-guide stains might look alarming but are generally easier to remove than DHA stains, as they haven’t chemically bonded with the fabric. However, leaving guide color stains untreated can lead to them setting deeper into the fabric due to the presence of DHA.

Professional cleaners identify three stages of fake tan stains: immediate transfer (within minutes), developing stains (3-12 hours), and set stains (over 24 hours). Each stage requires different treatment approaches for the best results.

Immediate Actions

When you spot fake tan on your bedding, time becomes your most valuable weapon in the battle against stains. The next few minutes will determine whether your bedding can be saved or if you’ll be shopping for replacements.

  • Blotting vs. rubbing: Stop yourself from rubbing the stain. Blot it firmly with white paper towels or cloths, lifting straight up each time and using fresh sections until no more color transfers
  • Cold water treatment: Use cold water only. Work from the back of the stain if possible, and for mattresses, use a cold damp cloth without soaking the area
  • Removing excess product: Gently scrape away extra tanner with a plastic card or spoon, working from the outside inward, then apply cornstarch or baby powder to absorb remaining product

Speed matters in stain removal, but rushing can make things worse. Taking these steps calmly and methodically in the first few minutes can mean the difference between a clean bed and a permanently stained one.

Remember, it’s not just about acting fast. It’s about acting smart.

Cleaning Bedding

Once you’ve performed immediate actions, it’s time to tackle the stains with proven cleaning solutions. Each fabric type and stain severity requires a specific approach to achieve the best results.

White Vinegar Solution

White vinegar’s natural acidity makes it a powerful weapon against fake tan stains by breaking down DHA bonds. Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle, then saturate the stained area without soaking through to the mattress.

Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the vinegar to work on the chemical bonds. Blot with a clean white cloth, starting from the edges and working toward the center of the stain. For stubborn stains, repeat the process two to three times, but avoid oversaturating the fabric.

Enzyme-based Detergents

Enzyme cleaners specifically target protein-based stains by breaking down the chemical bonds between DHA and fabric fibers. Choose a detergent containing protease enzymes, which work best on self-tanner stains.

Apply the enzyme cleaner directly to the stain and gently work it into the fabric using your fingertips. Allow the product to sit for 15-20 minutes, giving the enzymes time to break down the bonds. Add a second application for older or darker stains before laundering as usual in cold water.

Oxygen Bleach for White Fabrics

Oxygen bleach offers a safer alternative to chlorine bleach for removing fake tan from white bedding. Create a soaking solution by dissolving oxygen bleach in cold water according to package directions. Submerge the stained items completely and let them soak for 4-6 hours or overnight for stubborn stains.

Check the fabric periodically to monitor progress and prevent any potential damage.

We don’t recommend using bleach on a mattress, no matter what kind it is.

Special Considerations for Colored Bedding

Colored bedding requires extra care to prevent fading or bleaching while removing fake tan stains. Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t affect the fabric’s color. Choose color-safe detergents and avoid oxygen bleach, which can strip dyes from fabric.

Dilute cleaning solutions more than you would for white fabrics, using a ratio of one part cleaner to three parts water. Work in small sections and avoid leaving any cleaning solution on the fabric for extended periods.

Treating Mattress Stains

Removing fake tan from mattresses requires special attention since you can’t simply toss them in the washing machine. Your mattress is an investment worth protecting, and with the right approach, you can remove those stubborn orange stains without damaging the material.

Baking Soda Paste Method

Mix baking soda with cold water until you create a thick, toothpaste-like consistency. This natural cleaning solution is gentle yet effective on mattress fabrics.

Apply this paste directly to the stained area using a soft-bristled brush or clean white cloth, working it in with gentle circular motions.

Let the paste sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the baking soda to absorb both moisture and discoloration from the fake tan. During this time, you might notice the paste changing color as it draws out the stain.

Use a clean, slightly damp cloth to remove the dried paste, being careful not to saturate the mattress. For particularly stubborn stains, you can add a few drops of white vinegar to the baking soda paste for extra cleaning power.

Enzymatic Cleaners

Choose an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for protein-based stains and safe for use on mattresses. These specialized cleaners contain natural enzymes that break down the DHA molecules without damaging mattress materials.

Spray or dab the cleaner onto the stain, making sure to cover the entire affected area without soaking the mattress. Allow the enzymes to work for at least 30 minutes. Some cleaners work best when left overnight.

Use a fan or open windows to ensure proper ventilation and faster drying, as moisture trapped in a mattress can lead to mold growth.

Steam Cleaning Options

Professional-grade steam cleaners can effectively lift fake tan stains from mattresses using the power of heat and extraction. Use the upholstery attachment and maintain a consistent distance to avoid oversaturating the mattress.

Make several passes over the stained area, working from the edges inward to prevent spreading. The high temperature helps break down the DHA bonds while the vacuum action removes the dissolved stain.

Always test the steam cleaner on a small, hidden area first, as some mattress materials may be sensitive to heat and moisture.

Professional Cleaning Services

Consider professional cleaning services when dealing with extensive staining or expensive mattresses. Professional cleaners have access to specialized equipment and solutions not available to consumers.

These experts can assess the type of mattress material and stain severity to determine the most effective treatment method. Most professionals also offer sanitizing services alongside stain removal, providing added value.

Make sure to choose a service that specifically mentions experience with fake tan or dye-based stains, as these require different treatment approaches than common mattress stains like food or beverages.

Prevention Tips

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of stain removal when it comes to fake tan and bedding. Taking a few extra steps before tanning can save you hours of cleaning and potentially hundreds of dollars in ruined bedding.

Protective Barriers

Invest in a high-quality waterproof mattress protector that specifically guards against liquid and dye transfer. These barriers create an impenetrable layer between your tanned skin and expensive mattress.

Consider using dark-colored or designated “tanning sheets” during the first night after applying self-tanner. Some companies now make specialized self-tan bedding with protective coatings designed to resist DHA staining. Even old sheets you no longer care about can work!

Keep a supply of old, dark towels to lay over pillows and sheets during the initial developing period. Remember to extend protection to any surfaces where your skin might make contact.

Timing of Self-Tanner Application

Apply your self-tanner early in the morning or afternoon rather than just before bedtime. This timing allows the initial development phase to occur while you’re awake and active.

The first 4-6 hours after application are crucial, as this is when most color transfer occurs. Plan your tanning schedule around your daily activities to maximize development time before sleeping.

Consider a weekly tanning schedule that allows for complete development before your usual sheet-changing day.

Proper Drying Time

Always follow the product’s recommended drying time before getting dressed or touching fabric surfaces. Most quality self-tanners require at least 10-15 minutes of initial drying time.

Use a fan or stand in front of an air conditioning unit to speed up the drying process. Cool air helps the product set faster while preventing excess sweating that can cause streaking.

Test if your skin is completely dry by lightly pressing a white paper towel against different areas. If any color transfers, you need more drying time.

Recommended Sleepwear

Choose loose-fitting, dark-colored pajamas made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Tight clothing can create friction and cause the tanner to transfer more readily.

Long-sleeved tops and full-length bottoms provide an extra barrier between your tanned skin and bedding. Some brands now offer specialized self-tan sleepwear with moisture-wicking and transfer-resistant properties.

Consider wearing old sleepwear dedicated specifically for your tanning nights. This eliminates worry about staining your regular pajamas and provides consistent protection for your bedding.

Special Cases

Different materials and stain types require unique approaches to avoid damage while effectively removing fake tan marks. Understanding these special cases can help you choose the most appropriate treatment method without risking further damage to your valuable items.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam requires extra caution due to its moisture-sensitive nature and unique cellular structure. Never saturate memory foam with cleaning solutions, as excess moisture can break down the foam’s structure and lead to mold growth.

Use as little liquid as possible when cleaning. Opt for foam-based cleaners specifically designed for memory foam materials. Allow extra drying time between cleaning attempts, using fans to circulate air around the mattress.

Memory foam mattresses can trap cleaning solutions deep within their layers, so always test products on a small area first and ensure complete drying between applications.

Delicate Fabrics

High-end sheets and delicate materials like silk, satin, or lace require special handling to prevent damage during stain removal. Always check the care label before attempting any cleaning method, as some fabrics may require professional dry cleaning only.

Use gentle, diluted solutions and avoid any rubbing or scrubbing motions that could damage delicate fibers. Work with extra care around embroidery, lace edges, or decorative elements.

Consider using a clean white cloth as a barrier between the cleaning solution and the fabric, gently pressing instead of direct application.

Old or Set-in Stains

Stains discovered after several days or weeks present a unique challenge as the DHA has fully bonded with the fabric fibers. These set-in stains often require multiple treatment attempts with increasing strength of cleaning solutions.

Start with the gentlest method first and gradually work up to stronger solutions if needed. Professional cleaning services might be your best option for stains older than a week.

Document your cleaning attempts and their results, as this information can help determine the next best step or aid professional cleaners.

Dark-colored Stains

The darkest fake tan stains often indicate a concentrated amount of DHA or multiple layers of product build-up. These stains typically require a combination of cleaning methods for effective removal.

Begin with enzyme cleaners to break down the outer layer of the stain before moving to more aggressive treatments. Consider using specialized tanning removal products designed specifically for dark self-tanner stains.

Allow extended treatment times for dark stains, but always monitor the fabric or mattress for any adverse reactions to cleaning solutions.

Maintenance

Creating a regular maintenance routine for your bedding and mattress not only helps prevent fake tan disasters but also extends the life of your sleep essentials. A proactive approach can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Regular Inspection

Check your bedding and mattress for signs of tanning product transfer each morning after application nights. Early detection of even small stains can prevent them from setting deeper into the fabric.

Make it a habit to inspect your mattress monthly, even in areas not typically exposed. Light stains can darken over time if left untreated, so catching them early is crucial.

Document any stains you find with photos, noting their location and when you first spotted them. This tracking helps you identify patterns in how stains occur and which prevention methods work best.

Mattress Protection

Invest in multiple layers of protection, starting with a quality waterproof mattress protector underneath your regular fitted sheet. Keep spare protectors on hand for immediate replacement if staining occurs.

Consider using a mattress encasement that provides six-sided protection against stains, spills, and other accidents. These full-coverage protectors can be particularly valuable during regular self-tanning periods, but also for other self-care tasks that can leave stains:

Replace mattress protectors every 1-2 years or sooner if they show signs of wear, as damaged barriers can allow stains to seep through to your mattress.

Bedding Rotation

Establish a rotation system for your sheets and pillowcases, using dedicated sets for tanning nights. Keep at least three sets of sheets in rotation: one for immediate use, one for tanning nights, and one for backup.

Wash tanning night bedding separately from regular bedding to prevent any residual tanner from transferring. Consider using color-catching sheets in the wash to prevent any dye transfer.

Mark your calendar for regular deep cleaning sessions of all bedding, including mattress protectors and encasements. This consistent care helps maintain the effectiveness of your protective barriers.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your DIY stain removal attempts haven’t worked, you might wonder when it’s time to call a professional cleaner. Professional cleaning services can be a smart investment, especially when dealing with expensive bedding or stubborn stains that won’t budge.

  • Severe staining: Multiple layers of fake tan buildup or large stained areas need professional attention. Experts have industrial-strength solutions and specialized equipment that work better than household products
  • Expensive or specialty bedding: High-end materials like Egyptian cotton, silk, or designer pieces deserve expert care. Professionals understand how different fabrics react to cleaning solutions
  • Warranty considerations: Check your mattress warranty coverage before cleaning. Some require professional services to maintain coverage, and many manufacturers partner with specific cleaning companies

Sometimes, trying to save money by avoiding professional cleaning can end up costing more in the long run. A professional cleaner’s expertise could be the difference between salvaging your bedding and having to replace it entirely.

FAQs

Can I use bleach to remove fake tan stains from my white sheets?

While bleach might seem like a quick solution, it’s not recommended as your first line of defense against fake tan stains. Chlorine bleach can actually react with DHA and make the stains appear more yellow or orange.

Instead, start with oxygen-based bleach, which is gentler and specifically designed to remove organic stains. If you must use chlorine bleach, always try other cleaning methods first and dilute it properly to prevent fabric damage.

Do fake tan removing wipes work on bedding stains?

While fake tan removing wipes are effective on skin, they’re not the best choice for fabric stains. These wipes often contain oils and other ingredients that can create new stains or make existing ones worse.

The chemicals in tanning wipes are formulated to work with skin chemistry, not fabric fibers. Instead, stick to cleaning solutions specifically designed for fabric stain removal.

How long should I wait to lie down after applying fake tan?

Ideally, you should wait 6-8 hours after applying self-tanner before sleeping on your regular bedding. During the first few hours, use dark-colored or designated tanning sheets to protect your regular bedding.

Most self-tanners continue developing for up to 8 hours, so if possible, apply your tan in the morning or early afternoon. If evening application is your only option, consider sleeping in protective clothing and using dedicated tanning bedding for the first night.

Do fake tan stains ruin a memory foam mattress?

Memory foam mattresses can be salvaged from fake tan stains, but they require extra care during cleaning. The key is to use as little moisture as possible while cleaning to prevent damage to the foam structure.

Start with dry methods like baking soda or enzyme cleaners in powder form. Professional cleaning services often have specialized techniques for memory foam that can remove stains without compromising the material’s integrity.

Will a regular mattress protector prevent fake tan stains?

Not all mattress protectors are created equal when it comes to blocking fake tan stains. Look specifically for waterproof protectors with a polyurethane or similar barrier that blocks both moisture and dyes.

Regular quilted protectors or those marketed as “water-resistant” may not provide adequate protection against DHA and bronzers. Consider investing in a premium protector specifically designed to block dyes and chemicals.

Can professional cleaning remove old fake tan stains that I’ve tried everything on?

Professional cleaners have access to specialized solutions and equipment that can often tackle stains that seem impossible to remove at home. They can use different combinations of treatments and techniques not available to consumers, including high-temperature steam extraction and enzyme-based solutions.

However, success rates decrease significantly for stains older than several months, especially if multiple inappropriate cleaning attempts have been made. Always inform the cleaner about previous cleaning attempts and how long the stain has been present.

How can I tell if a fake tan stain is permanent?

A stain isn’t necessarily permanent just because it resists your first few cleaning attempts. Try to treat the stain with progressively stronger cleaning methods, starting with gentle solutions and working up to more aggressive treatments.

If the stain shows no signs of fading after three different cleaning methods, including enzyme cleaners, or if the fabric begins to show wear from cleaning attempts, consult a professional cleaner.

Professional cleaning services can often provide an assessment of whether a stain can be removed without damaging the fabric.

Can laundry stripping help with fake tan stains on bedding?

It can indeed help, as this deep-cleaning method breaks down product buildup and removes residual chemicals that regular washing might miss. The process works by using a combination of borax, washing soda, and laundry detergent in very hot water, which creates an alkaline environment that effectively lifts stubborn stains like fake tanner from fabric fibers.

However, before attempting laundry stripping on your bedding, it’s important to consider that this intensive cleaning method can potentially fade colors and weaken fabric fibers over time, so you might want to first test it on a small, inconspicuous area of your bedding to ensure the fabric can withstand the treatment.

Conclusion

Dealing with fake tan stains on your bedding and mattress doesn’t have to be a permanent nightmare. Armed with the right knowledge and quick action, you can effectively tackle these stubborn stains while protecting your valuable sleep essentials.

Prevention plays a crucial role in maintaining pristine bedding, investing in protective barriers and following proper tanning protocols can save you countless hours of cleaning efforts.

When stains do occur, the key is to act quickly and choose the appropriate cleaning method based on your specific situation, whether it’s a fresh stain on sheets or a set-in mark on a memory foam mattress.

Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for expensive items or severe staining, as the cost of expert cleaning often outweighs the risk of permanent damage or replacement. With regular maintenance and proper care, you can enjoy your self-tanning routine without sacrificing the quality of your bedding.

By following these guidelines and maintaining a proactive approach to bedding care, you can achieve that perfect sun-kissed glow while keeping your sleep sanctuary fresh and stain-free.


About the author

April Mayer is a sleep expert and writer with a degree in exercise physiology. She has dedicated her career to exploring the relationship between sleep and productivity. Her insightful articles, such as "The Surprising Way Your Mood Might Be Messing With Your Productivity" and "Wake Up to More Productive Mornings," have been featured in reputable publications like Forbes, Greatist, Real Homes, Thrillist, Tom's Guide, and Eat This, Not That. With a passion for helping others lead more productive lives through restful sleep, April offers valuable expertise on foods and vitamins for better sleep. As a trusted member of the Early Bird team since March 2020, she continues to provide informative and well-researched content.

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