How do I remove a tar stain from my dress?

Start by scraping away any excess tar with a spoon or dull knife. You can then try taking it to a dry cleaner, applying laundry detergent, and/or using cooking oil before washing. For tough stains, use a protective coating like Scotchgard to prevent future messes.

Can I wash my dress with tar on it?

No. Washing a piece of clothing with tar on it will only push the stain further into the fabric and make it harder to remove.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tar > Cocktail dress

Eliminate Tar Stains from Your Cocktail Dress Easily

No one wants to show up to an event in their fanciest dress only to have a tar stain ruin the whole look. Whether you track through a construction site, get caught in an oil spill, or otherwise, tar stains can be tough to remove on your own. Thankfully, there are several methods to help you clean and restore your cocktail dress.

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Blaž Stančič

Start by Removing Excess Tar

The first step to getting rid of a tar stain is to remove as much of the extra residue as possible. This will make it easier to clean the remaining stain without making it worse. To do this, gently scrape away the excess with a spoon or a dull knife. Do not rub, press, or scrub the fabric in order to avoid pushing the stain further into the fabric.

Try a Dry Cleaner

One of the best ways to remove a tar stain is to take your dress to a dry cleaner. Professionals with expertise in fabric and stain removal can help you get the tar off without damaging the garment. Be sure to explain what happened and provide as much information as possible about the stain so that they can use the most appropriate chemicals and cleaning techniques.

Apply Laundry Detergent

If you choose to attempt removing the tar stain yourself, start by applying laundry detergent to the affected area. Let detergent sit for at least 30 minutes before washing the garment. Make sure to use a mild detergent suitable for material of your dress, and use cold water when washing to avoid shrinkage.

Opt for Cooking Oil

Sometimes, detergent alone may not be enough to remove a tar stain. If you need extra help, try using cooking oil to remove the stubborn stain. Dab a cloth or cotton ball in cooking oil and rub it over area. Let it soak in for a few minutes before washing dress.

Prevent Future Damage

Once you’ve successfully removed the tar stain from your cocktail dress, it’s important to take steps to protect your garment from future damage. Avoiding areas with potential messes, like construction sites and gas stations, is a good start. Applying a protective coating, like Scotchgard, is also recommended to repel dirt, grease, and oil.

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