Quick answer

If your MakeUp Eraser starts to smell, it's usually because it wasn't dried properly or washed often enough. Rinse it thoroughly, wash it with mild detergent, and let it air dry completely before using it again. If the smell persists after a deep clean, it may be time to replace the cloth.

A reusable makeup remover cloth is a great way to cut down on waste, but it only stays fresh if you care for it properly. When your MakeUp Eraser starts to smell, it's a sign that bacteria, mildew, or product buildup is hanging around in the fibers. The good news is that most odor problems are easy to fix with the right washing and drying routine.

In this guide, we'll walk through the most common causes of a smelly makeup eraser, how to deodorize it, and when to stop trying to save it. You'll also learn how to keep your cloth smelling clean between washes.

Why does my MakeUp Eraser smell?

The most common culprit is leaving the cloth damp. The MakeUp Eraser is made of patented, water-activated fibers that are great at lifting makeup, but they also trap moisture. If you toss a wet cloth into a laundry basket or leave it on the counter, bacteria and mildew can multiply quickly, causing a musty or sour odor.

Another cause is not washing the cloth often enough. Even if you rinse it after each use, makeup, oils, and dead skin cells can build up in the fibers over time. This residue becomes a food source for odor-causing bacteria. If you use a balm or oil cleanser before your eraser, leftover product can also cling to the cloth and go rancid.

  • Always hang your MakeUp Eraser to dry after each use, not balled up.
  • Wash your eraser at least twice a week if you use it daily.

Daily

daily

How to deodorize your MakeUp Eraser

Start by rinsing the cloth under warm water to remove any loose makeup. Then, wash it in your washing machine on a gentle cycle with a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets—they coat the fibers and reduce the eraser's effectiveness. For an extra deep clean, add a half-cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralize odors.

If you prefer to hand wash, soak the cloth in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of gentle detergent for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Squeeze out excess water and lay it flat to dry in a well-ventilated area. Never put a damp eraser in a closed container or drawer.

  • Use white vinegar as a natural deodorizer—it kills odor-causing bacteria.
  • Machine wash with like colors in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fibers.

When to stop and replace your MakeUp Eraser

If you've washed and dried your eraser properly and it still smells, it might be time to let it go. Persistent odors can indicate that the fibers have become permanently embedded with bacteria or that the cloth has reached the end of its lifespan. Using a smelly cloth on your face can irritate skin and spread bacteria, so it's not worth the risk.

Also, inspect the cloth for visible mold or discoloration. If you see black spots or a musty smell that won't budge after two deep cleans, replace it. The Original MakeUp Eraser is designed to be reusable, but like any fabric, it wears out eventually.

  • If the smell returns immediately after washing, replace the cloth.
  • Mold on makeup eraser is a clear sign to stop using it.

Your odor-fix checklist

  • Symptom: Your MakeUp Eraser smells musty, sour, or like mildew, even after rinsing. Recognize the signs early to avoid skin irritation.
  • Likely cause: Dampness, infrequent washing, or product buildup (like balm or oil residue) trapped in the fibers. Adjust your drying and washing habits.
  • Corrective action: Wash with mild detergent and white vinegar, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely. Repeat if needed; always dry flat or hanging.
  • Stop point: If the smell persists after two deep cleans or you see mold, stop using the cloth and replace it. Your skin's health comes first—don't risk irritation.

Products that can help

  • Limoncello 7-Day Set: Erase all makeup with JUST WATER including waterproof. Our patented, water-activated, cloud-soft fibers gently & easily remove all makeup & sunscreen from pores. 2 in 1 benefit: one side erases makeup & one side exfoliates skin. Dermatologist Recommended for sensitive skin. SmartErase Technology. Reusable & machine washable. Having multiple cloths means you can rotate them and let each one dry fully between uses, reducing the chance of odor buildup.
  • PRO Classics: Erase all makeup with JUST WATER including waterproof. Our patented, water-activated, cloud-soft fibers gently & easily remove all makeup & sunscreen from pores. 2 in 1 benefit: one side erases makeup & one side exfoliates skin. Dermatologist Recommended. SmartErase Technology. Reusable & machine washable. Great for heavy makeup. If you wear heavy makeup, the PRO Classics' exfoliating side can help remove more residue, but you'll still need to wash it promptly to prevent smells.

A smelly MakeUp Eraser is a fixable problem in most cases. By rinsing after each use, washing regularly, and drying completely, you can keep your reusable cloth fresh and effective. If the odor won't go away, replace it and start fresh with a clean routine.