Removing Unwanted Tar Stains from Cotton Oxford
Nobody likes seeing a tar stain on their beautiful Oxford shirt! Luckily, tar stains can be removed with regular household items and some elbow grease. Read on for tips and tricks for removing tar stains from cotton oxford.
Updated 24 Jun 2023
By Noemi Denker
Getting Started
Before you start, ensure that the stain is in fact tar. You should be able to recognize tar by its stickiness, smoky smell, and tendency to leave a residue. Also check if the fabric is colorfast: that is, if it will not bleed or fade when exposed to water. Test an inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it won’t discolor.
Instructions
- Cover the stained area with a few drops of vinegar.
- Wait for the vinegar to dry completely.
- Sprinkle cornstarch liberally over the area.
- Gently rub the cornstarch into the stain with a soft cloth.
- Let the mixture sit on the fabric for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum the cornstarch off the fabric.
- If the stain persists, mix a tablespoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water and rub solution on the stain.
- Rinse the oxford and launder normally.
Tips & Tricks
- Always test a small part of the fabric before using any cleaning product.
- Always use cold water when cleaning tar stains to prevent the stain from setting.
- Avoid using rubbing alcohol as it can weaken or discolor the fabric.
- If the fabric is delicate or dry-clean only, take it to a professional cleaner.
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