Hairspray residue can be a real problem. It’s sticky and tacky, and can quickly become a magnet for dirt and debris. The result? Surfaces that are anything but sparkling. It’s clear that it’s a problem worth remedying, but the method you use will be dependent on your cleaning preferences as well as the surfaces you’re targeting. Even the type of hairspray used can affect your cleaning strategy, as it can have a more targeted projection or one that floats all around, coating every last surface including walls, floors, and the ceiling. Choose one of our cleaning methods for hairspray buildup to restore your bathroom's sparkle.
How to Remove Hairspray Buildup
To determine the right process for removing the hairspray buildup, take note of the surface type, the size of the affected area, and how thick the layer of residue is. From there, select one of the strategies below for removing hairspray from everything from faucets and mirrors to natural stone countertops and painted walls.
Faucets and Mirrors
Faucets and mirrors can quickly showcase even the smallest amount of buildup—which can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to keeping your space looking clean. Once you notice dullness, splotches, etc., use rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) to break down hairspray on faucets and mirrors in a flash. To do so, dip a clean cloth in rubbing alcohol and rub the surface to remove any buildup. Wipe down the area with a damp cloth and let dry.
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Natural Marble, Granite, Limestone, and Travertine
Hairspray can corrode the surface of natural stone due to the product's acids and it can give marble, granite, travertine, or limestone a dull, discolored look that isn’t just buildup, but damage from the hairspray. For this reason, it’s important to eliminate any hairspray from natural surfaces immediately.
To remove buildup from these countertop surfaces, mix a solution of ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol, a couple of drops of dish soap, and 12 ounces of water. Spray onto the surface and wipe with a cloth until the residue is eliminated.
If you still notice discoloration or dullness, use a stone and granite polish that’s suited for your particular surface.
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Vinyl Flooring
A layer of hairspray on a vinyl floor can leave behind a sticky feeling that becomes a trap for hair, lint, dust, and more—not to mention an uncomfortable feel underfoot. Make your floors look and feel as good as new with a solution of warm water and vinegar, using a 1:1 ratio to create the formula. Add the solution to a spray bottle and apply to the floor before wiping it with a clean, dry cloth.
Woodwork
If hairspray is the culprit of your tacky woodwork, you can remove it using the same process that works for faucets and mirrors. Dip a small towel in rubbing alcohol then apply to the affected area. Wipe down the surface with a wet cloth and use a separate cloth to dry. For extra stubborn residue, you might have to clean the area again with a solution of warm, soapy water.
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Additional Strategies to Remove Hairspray Buildup
- Melamine foam sponge: Abrasive cleaning sponges (like a Magic Eraser) can be a quick and easy way to remove hairspray residue from surfaces that are safe for its use. This sponge can be used on faucets, sinks, and solid surface countertop materials—just steer clear of using this method on granite or marble.
- Warm water and soap solution: Use a solution of warm water and soap to wipe away the tacky residue by adding a couple of soap drops to a spray bottle of water. To clean larger surfaces like floors and walls, add about ¼ cup of soap to a gallon of water.
- Vinegar and water formula: Remove hairspray buildup from painted walls with a potent solution of equal parts water and vinegar. After applying the solution, wipe the walls down with a clean cloth, rubbing away the residue as you work.
- Fabric softener: The compounds in fabric softener can help break down hairspray residue and leave the area smelling fresh. Create a solution of one part fabric softener to two parts warm water and shake to combine. Apply to the surface and rub with a clean cloth. Repeat as necessary until the surface is free from residue, then wipe down with a damp, clean cloth.
