How To Get Hair Dye Off Wood

Jeni asked: How do I clean hair dye off laminated wood? I managed to get permanent hair dye on a wooden panel in my bathroom. It's a gloss panel, so I think it's laminated or lacquered. I've tried nail varnish remover, vinegar and soap. Have I sealed it in or is there any hope?

Hair laminateflooring dye on bathroom cabinets is a common problem, and fortunately, one that can usually be rectified. Here are some simple techniques and cleaning products that will help make the clean up a little easier.

You Will Need:

Baking soda
Vinegar
Water
Soft cloths
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Steps to Remove the Dye:

Begin with the simplest method first, the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Simply moisten the sponge and rub it over the stained area. Often times, this will remove the dye, especially if the surface is glossy and well sealed.
If the stain remains, mix a paste of vinegar and baking soda. It should be thick enough that it will not run when applied.
Spread it over the stained area and allow it to set for 15 minutes.
Wipe it away with a clean, soft cloth.
It may be necessary to repeat this a couple of times to completely remove the hair dye.
For additional cleaning power, scrub with a scrubbing pad or Magic Eraser to remove the baking soda paste.
Once the stain is removed, rinse the area thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Additional Tips and Advice

SOS pads are commonly used to remove the hair dye. While the soap in the pads is effective in removing the dye, the pads themselves can be abrasive and scratch the surface. Use them carefully so not to remove the finish.
Though nail polish removers will remove the dye, they will also strip the finish from the wood's surface. If the wood is a laminate, it may not be affected, but it should not be used on finished wood. Always test a small, hidden area first before working on the stain in the center of the door.

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