How to Get Rid of Tar Stains on Cotton Denim
Tar stains on clothing can be a real nuisance. Whether you accidentally got tar on your jeans while doing some DIY work, or something else caused the stain, removing it can be tricky. Luckily, there are some simple methods to help you remove tar stains from cotton denim.
Updated 23 Jun 2023
By Jacobim Mugabe
Method 1: Using Olive Oil or Mineral Spirits
- Lay stained denim flat on an absorbent surface.
- Dampen a cloth with either olive oil or mineral spirits.
- Gently rub the damp cloth on top of the stain until it is entirely covered.
- Let the oil or mineral spirits sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes before wiping the surface with a clean, damp cloth.
- Repeat Steps 2-4 until stain is removed.
- Launder as usual.
Method 2: Using Rubbing Alcohol
- Lay stained denim flat on an absorbent surface.
- Pour rubbing alcohol over the tar stain.
- Work in the rubbing alcohol with a brush to help break down the tar.
- Let the rubbing alcohol sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes before wiping the surface with a clean, damp cloth.
- Repeat Steps 2-4 until the stain is removed.
- Launder as usual.
Method 3: Using Vinegar and Baking Soda
- Lay stained denim flat on an absorbent surface.
- Combine vinegar and baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the tar stain, ensuring that it is fully covered.
- Let the paste sit on stain for 15-20 minutes before wiping the surface with a clean, damp cloth.
- Repeat Steps 2-4 until the stain is removed.
- Launder as usual.