How to Get Hair Dye Stains Out of Hardwood Floors: Step-by-Step Guide [DIY]

You’ve just returned from the salon with a fresh new hair color, feeling like a new person. But as you step into your home, you notice something alarming. There are hair dye stains on your beautiful hardwood floors.

Panic sets in as you wonder if the stains are permanent and if you’ll have to replace the entire floor. But with the right tools and techniques, you can remove the stains and bring your hardwood floors back to life.

To get hair dye stains out of your hardwood floors, gather the necessary supplies. Then, determine the type of hair dye and wood to choose the right cleaning solution. Next, prepare the solution, apply the cleaning solution to the affected area, and wipe it clean with a soft cloth.

Today we’ll discuss the step-by-step instructions on removing them and answer some common questions about hair dye stains on hardwood floors. So let’s get started.

How to Get Hair Dye Stains Out of Hardwood Floors: Steps to Follow

If you’ve accidentally spilled hair dye on your hardwood floors, don’t panic. You can remove the stain with a few simple steps. Here’s what you need to do:

• Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies
• Step 2: Determine the Type of Hair Dye and Wood
• Step 3: Prepare the cleaning solution
• Step 4: Test on a Hidden Area First
• Step 5: Apply the Cleaning Solution
• Step 6: Continue Scrubbing or Rubbing
• Step 7: Wipe Off the Residue

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Supplies

Gather all the necessary supplies to remove those pesky hair dye stains. You’ll need,

• Warm water
• Baking soda
• Liquid dishwashing detergent
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Clean clothes or rags
• Melamine sponge (e.g., Mr. Clean Magic Eraser)
• Rubbing alcohol (optional)
• Olive oil (optional)
• Acetone nail polish remover (for white cabinets, if necessary)

Step 2: Determine the Type of Hair Dye and Wood

Before diving into the cleaning process, identify the hair dye and wood type to ensure the most effective and safe removal method. Permanent hair dye can leave more stubborn stains that may require a stronger solution, while temporary hair dye may be easier to clean up.

Also, the type of wood flooring will impact the method you choose. Finished wood surfaces are generally more resistant to stains than unfinished wood, so consider that when selecting your cleaning solution.

To determine the hair dye type and wood, examine the stained area. Also, check the label for any specific cleaning instructions if the hair dye packaging is still available.

You can also try a small test patch with a cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area to see how the wood reacts. If you’re unsure about the type of wood, a flooring professional may be able to help you identify it.

Step 3: Prepare the cleaning solution

Let’s mix together warm water, baking soda, and liquid dishwashing detergent, or create a paste with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to prepare our solution for removing hair dye stains from hardwood floors.

For Method #1, use approximately equal parts of each ingredient to create a cleaning solution. This mixture is safe for most hardwood floors and won’t cause any damage. Use warm water to help dissolve the baking soda and dishwashing detergent. Mix the ingredients in a bowl or bucket until they’re well blended.

If you prefer Method #2, combine hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to create a paste with a spreadable consistency. This mixture effectively removes hair dye stains and can be used on most hardwood floors.

However, test the paste in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage to the wood. Apply the paste directly to the stained area and wait a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush.

Step 4: Test on a Hidden Area First

Test an inconspicuous area to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t cause any harm or discoloration to your hardwood floors. This step is crucial in preventing any potential damage to your floors.

Before you apply the cleaning solution to the hair dye stains, choose a small, hidden area of your hardwood floor and apply a small amount of the solution. Leave it briefly and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Don’t proceed with the cleaning process if you notice any discoloration or damage.

Testing the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area is a simple process that can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. It allows you to identify potential problems before they become widespread and cause permanent damage to your hardwood floors.

Step 5: Apply the Cleaning Solution

Now that you have tested the cleaning solution on a hidden area, it’s time to apply it to the hair dye stain on your hardwood floors. Dip a clean soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently rub it onto the stain. Remember to apply light to moderate pressure to avoid damaging the wood.

To help you visualize the effectiveness of the cleaning solution, here’s a table to show you the before and after effects of the cleaning process. As you can see, using the cleaning solution removes the hair dye stain and restores the natural beauty of your hardwood floors.

Step 6: Continue Scrubbing or Rubbing

To effectively remove the tough hair dye stains on your hardwood floors, continue to scrub or rub the cleaning solution into the affected area with persistence and patience. Keep going even if the stain comes out immediately. Removing the stain completely may take several applications and some elbow grease.

Here are three tips to help you stay motivated:

• Remember that persistence pays off. Keep going after one or two attempts. Keep at it, and you’ll eventually see results.
• Take breaks when you need to. Scrubbing or rubbing for extended periods can be tiring and frustrating. Step away for a few minutes, take a deep breath, and return to the task with renewed energy.
• Celebrate small victories. Even if the stain isn’t completely gone, take note of any progress you make. This will help you stay motivated and give you the confidence to keep going.

Step 7: Wipe Off the Residue

As you wipe off the residue from the cleaning solution with a clean, damp cloth, apply moderate pressure to remove all the remaining dye stains. Be careful not to use excessive water, which may damage your hardwood floors. Once you’ve wiped off all the residue, step back and admire your now spotless floors.

If you notice any lingering stains, don’t worry! Simply repeat the previous steps until your floors are completely dye-free. Remember, persistence is key when removing stubborn stains from hardwood floors.

Does hair dye permanently stain on hardwood floors?

You may be anxious about whether hair dye permanently stains your beautiful hardwood floors. The truth is it depends on several factors, such as the hardwood type, the finish quality, and how quickly you act to remove the stain.

However, with the appropriate equipment and techniques, you can minimize the damage and prevent it from becoming a permanent eyesore. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Hardwood floors with a lighter color or unfinished surface are more susceptible to staining, so it’s important to act quickly.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as they can damage the finish of the hardwood flooring.
• Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration to the wood.
• Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much excess dye as possible before applying any cleaning solution.
• Lastly, don’t panic if the stain doesn’t come out completely. Sometimes, a professional floor refinisher may need to sand down the affected area and reapply a new finish, which is only necessary in severe cases.

Will hair dye come out of hardwood floors?

If you’re wondering how to remove those pesky hair dye marks from your beautiful wooden floors, don’t worry, it’s possible with the right tools and technique.

First and foremost, it’s important to act quickly. The longer the stain sits on the hardwood, the more difficult it will be to remove it completely. Combining baking soda and dishwashing detergent can be a lifesaver in this situation. Mix one tablespoon of each with two cups of warm water to create a solution.

Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the mixture and gently rub the stained area. Rinse with clean water and dry with a towel. Repeat the steps until the stain is gone. With a little patience and elbow grease, your hardwood floors will look as good as new in no time.

What removes permanent hair dye from Hardwood floors?

Discovering the solution to removing permanent hair dye from your hardwood floors can reveal the importance of quick action and proper cleaning techniques. 

Acting quickly and preventing the dye from seeping into the wood grain is crucial. Leaving the dye on the surface for too long can penetrate the wood and become almost impossible to remove.

Therefore, follow these steps to remove the hair dye from your hardwood floors:

1. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot up most of the dye.
2. Rubbing alcohol into the stained area and waiting a few minutes.
3. Use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to scrub the surface gently.
4. Wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth and dry it with a soft towel.
5. Repeat the process until the stain is gone.

If rubbing alcohol doesn’t work, you can also try mixing baking soda, water, or a small amount of acetone. However, be careful with acetone as it can damage the hardwood floors. Always test any cleaning solution in an obtrusive place first to verify it doesn’t cause any damage.

Does hydrogen peroxide remove hair dye stains from hardwood floors?

Using hydrogen peroxide to remove hair dye stains from hardwood floors is a quick and easy solution. The same solution for hair dye stains on clothing can be used on hardwood floors.

All you need to do is combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle, then spritz it onto the stain. Afterward, wipe the area with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat the process to remove the stain completely.

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful bleaching agent, so be careful not to use too much or let it sit for too long, as it may lighten the color of the wood.

How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to remove stains from hardwood floors?

Removing stains from your hardwood floors with hydrogen peroxide takes about 15 to 20 minutes of letting the solution sit before rinsing it off. This is because hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that needs time to break down the dye molecules and lift the stain from the surface of the wood.

Note that different hardwood floors may react differently to hydrogen peroxide, so it’s always best to test a small inconspicuous area before treating the entire stain.

Protect Your Hardwood Floors: Remove Hair Dye Stains ASAP

You’ve successfully removed hair dye stains from your hardwood floors. Remember, prevention is key. Avoid spilling hair dye on your floors in the first place by laying down protective materials such as old towels or plastic sheets.

If you accidentally spill hair dye, act quickly and follow the steps outlined in this article. Utilizing the right tools and cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide, can make all the difference in removing stubborn stains. You can also remove hair dye stains from hardwood floors with patience and persistence.