Easy-to-Follow Guide on How to Clean Tar Stains from Outerwear
Accidentally get tar on your coat, jacket, or favorite pair of shoes? Don’t feel like you have to toss it! Here’s a simple guide to help you clean tar stains from outerwear.
Updated 24 Jun 2023
By Jacobim Mugabe
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol, an old toothbrush, liquid laundry detergent, and a sponge. If the stain is particularly stubborn, you can also use a mixture of vinegar and water.
Removing the Tar
Dab some of the nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol onto the spot, and start working it in with an old toothbrush. Make sure to lightly scrub area in a circular motion. After a couple of minutes, you should see the tar coming away from the clothing.
Detergent Wash
Once you’ve removed as much of the tar as possible, it’s time to wash the item. Pre-soak piece in cold water, and then rub some liquid detergent directly over the stained area. Gently rub it into the fabric with a sponge for a few minutes, and then rinse with cold water.
Vinegar Solution
If some of the tar remains after a detergent wash, combine 1/3 of a cup of white vinegar, 2/3 of a cup of warm water, and 1/4 teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Dip a cloth into the solution, and gently blot the area. Let it sit for a few minutes and then launder as usual.
Final Tips
Whenever you’re dealing with tar stains, remember to dab, not rub. Rubbing the area could cause stain to spread, resulting in a bigger mess. Also, wash the item immediately if possible—the longer tar sits in clothing, the harder it gets to remove.
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