How to Get Slime Out of Clothes(Without Losing Your Mind)

Slime is fun… until it ends up on your favorite Clothes or your kid’s school pants. Whether it’s squishy green goo or glitter-filled pink slime, getting it out of fabric can feel like an impossible task.

So, what do you do when slime strikes?

Don’t panic. You’re about to learn how to get slime out of Baby clothes with simple steps that work. This guide breaks it down in everyday language—no fancy terms, no confusing directions—just real advice anyone can follow.

We’ll even answer the big questions like:

  • How do you remove dried slime?
  • What if the slime has already gone through the dryer?
  • Can you save delicate or colored clothing?

Let’s jump in.

First Things First: Why Is Slime So Sticky?

You might be wondering, “Why is this stuff so hard to get out? Great question.

Slime is made from glue (which sticks like crazy), colorants (which stain), and sometimes glitter or beads (which just make a mess). When that goo hits fabric, it grabs on tight.

And if it dries? Ugh. It’s even harder to remove.

But don’t worry—we’ve got a plan that works whether the slime is wet or completely dry.

How to Get Slime Out of Clothes (Fresh and Sticky)

Caught the slime early? Lucky you. Fresh slime is a lot easier to deal with.

What You’ll Need:

  • White vinegar
  • Cold water
  • Dish soap or laundry detergent
  • A soft brush (an old toothbrush works great)
  • A spoon or a butter knife

Step-by-Step:

  1. Gently scrape off as much slime as you can. Use a spoon or even your fingernails. Try not to rub it deeper into the fabric.
  2. Hold the fabric under cold running water. This helps loosen the slime. Never use hot water—it can make it worse.
  3. Pour white vinegar directly on the slime. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Vinegar helps break down the slime’s gluey base.
  4. Scrub the spot gently with your brush. Be patient. You’ll start to see the slime come loose.
  5. Apply a little dish soap or laundry detergent. Rub it in gently.
  6. Toss the clothing in the washing machine. Wash on cold. Afterward, check before drying. If slime remains, repeat the process.

👉 Important: Don’t put the clothes in the dryer until you’re sure the slime is gone. Heat can set the stain permanently.

How to Get Dried Slime Out of Clothes (Yes, You Still Can!)

We’ve all been there. You find a crusty blob of slime on your kid’s pants two days later.

Wondering how to get dry slime out of clothes? Here’s what works:

You’ll Need:

  • Freezer (yes, really!)
  • White vinegar
  • A dull knife or spoon
  • Dish soap or stain remover

Here’s How:

  1. Freeze the clothing. Put it in a bag and toss it in the freezer for a couple of hours. This hardens the slime.
  2. Break and scrape off as much as you can. Once frozen, it comes off much easier.
  3. Soak the stained area in vinegar. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to soften what’s left.
  4. Scrub gently with your brush. The rest should start to come off.
  5. Apply detergent or a stain remover. Rub it in, then rinse with cold water.
  6. Wash as usual. Again, use cold water and air dry first to make sure the stain is gone.

Real-Life Tip: One mom told me she used the freezer trick on a dried slime stain in her kid’s jeans. After scraping and soaking, it came right out—like magic.

What If You Don’t Have Vinegar?

No vinegar? No problem. You can still learn how to get slime out of clothing using other stuff you probably already have.

Try These:

  • Rubbing alcohol – Works on glue-based slime. Dab it on and gently scrub.
  • Dish soap – Especially grease-fighting brands like Dawn.
  • Baking soda + water paste – Gentle and great for white clothes.
  • Hydrogen peroxide – Works, but be careful on colored fabric.
  • WD-40 – Weird, I know. But it’s great for dried slime. Spray, scrub, then wash.

Just be sure to spot-test any method on a hidden part of the fabric first!

How to Get Slime with Glitter or Beads Out of Clothes

Slime with glitter is like a double-whammy. The glitter clings, and it spreads Fashion Staples.

Here’s what helps:

  • Scrape off the slime.
  • Use a lint roller or packing tape to pick up glitter.
  • Wash the item with vinegar in the rinse cycle to lift leftover bits.

Bonus Tip: If the slime had foam beads, pick them off with tweezers before washing. Otherwise, they clog your washer.

Can You Save Delicate Fabrics?

Good question. If the fabric is delicate (like silk or wool), be extra gentle.

  • Avoid harsh scrubbing.
  • Skip strong stain removers.
  • Use mild dish soap and a soft cloth.
  • For wool or knitwear, soaking in vinegar and hand washing is safest.

When in doubt, take it to a dry cleaner and show them the slime spot.

How to Prevent Slime Messes in the First Place

I know—you’re here to clean up a mess, not avoid one. But these tips might save you next time:

  • Let kids play with slime only at a table.
  • Use a plastic play mat or an old sheet underneath.
  • Have them wear old clothes or an apron.
  • Store slime in sealed containers so it doesn’t end up in odd places.

Mom Tip: I keep a “slime shirt” in our laundry room just for messy play. It’s old, stained, and perfect for keeping new clothes safe.

What About Commercial Cleaners?

Sometimes home methods don’t cut it. That’s okay—there are store-bought options designed to help.

Try:

  • Goo Gone
  • Zout Stain Remover
  • Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover

Always follow directions and do a patch test first.

True Stories: Parents Who’ve Been There

Jessica, mom of three:

“My daughter dropped neon pink slime on her white dress. I used vinegar and dish soap, and it came out after one wash!”

Mike, Dad from Oregon:

“I didn’t even notice the slime until after it went through the dryer. I thought it was ruined. But after freezing and soaking it in vinegar, I managed to save it!”

Sarah, daycare worker:

“We deal with slime messes weekly. Our go-to is vinegar and Dawn. Works every time!

Quick FAQs – Let’s Clear Things Up

Q: Can you use hot water on slime stains?
A: Nope! Hot water can make it worse. Stick with cold.

Q: What if slime went through the dryer?
A: You can still try freezing, soaking, and scrubbing—but it may take a few rounds.

Q: How long should you soak the fabric?
A: Vinegar or soap soaks work best when left for 10–20 minutes.

Q: Will this work on all clothes?
A: Most! Just test first on delicate or bright-colored stuff.

Q: Can slime ruin clothing forever?
A: Not usually. With the right method, you can save most items, even after drying.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Getting slime out of clothes might seem like a nightmare, but it’s doable. Whether it’s wet, dried, glittery, or full of foam beads, you now know how to get slime out of clothes without stress.

To recap:

  • Act fast if the slime is fresh.
  • Freeze it if it’s dry.
  • Use vinegar, dish soap, or rubbing alcohol to break it down.
  • Don’t dry the fabric until the slime is gone.

Remember, you don’t need to toss out stained clothes. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to clean slime—like it was never there.

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