How do I remove tar stains from my shirt?

You can remove tar stains from your shirt with alcohol, a baking soda and laundry detergent mixture, a vinegar and baking soda paste, or WD-40. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and rinse the shirt each time.

Is WD-40 safe to use on my shirt?

WD-40 is a strong chemical which could potentially damage the fabric of your shirt. It's best to try other methods before resorting to this one.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tar > Shirts

Removing Tar Stains from Shirts like a Breeze

Tar stains can be a nightmare for any shirt-wearer -- and regular laundry won't always get rid of them. But don't worry, we've got you covered with these simple tips on how to easily get those pesky tar stains out.

Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Brane Lukman

Using Alcohol

The first step in removing tar stains is to use an alcohol-based cleaning solution. This could include rubbing alcohol, vodka, or another type of spirits, as well as nail polish remover. Simply dab the area gently with the alcohol, and let it sit until it has completely evaporated. Then rinse the shirt in cool water.

Using Baking Soda and Laundry Detergent

If the stain is still present after using alcohol, try a combination of baking soda and laundry detergent. Wet the area with cool water and sprinkle generously with baking soda. Let the baking soda sit and soak up the stain for about fifteen minutes. Then, rub a small amount of your favorite laundry detergent into the stain. Rinse the shirt, and repeat if the stain remains.

Using Vinegar and Baking Soda

For tougher stains, combine vinegar and baking soda to make a paste. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda in a bowl until you have a paste-like consistency. Rub the paste onto the stained area and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, rinse the shirt in cool water. You may need to repeat this process several times for especially stubborn stains.

Using WD-40

If all else fails, you can also try WD-40. Spray the stained area with WD-40 and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Then, wash the shirt as usual. Keep in mind that using WD-40 is more likely to cause damage to the fabric, so it's best to try other methods before resorting to this one.

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