How do I clean tree sap stains from a jacket?

You can start by freezing the stain and scraping it off with a dull butter knife. Alternatively, you can try using a solvent cleaner or detergent to remove the stain. If you don't have either of those, olive oil can also work. Finally, spot cleaning may not always do the trick so you may have to put the garment in your washing machine.

Can I use a sharp object to scrape off the sap?

No, make sure to use a dull object when scraping the stain. A sharp object could damage the fabric.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tree sap > Jackets

Get Rid of Tree Sap Stains from Jackets – Here's How!

Unfortunately, tree sap is often a burden to outdoor-goers who were in the wrong place at the wrong time. If your jacket has fallen victim to tree sap, don't worry – there are strategies you can use to clean it up with ease!

Updated 11 Mar 2023

By Nishat Asif

Freezing the Stain

One major tip is to freeze the stain and make it brittle. To start, put your jacket or garment at hand in freezer. After it has frozen, you can then scrape off the sap with a dull butter knife. Failing that, you can use a hard plastic spatula. Be sure not to use a sharp object to scrap the sap as it could damage the fabric.

Using Solvents and Detergents

Once the sap has been removed, if you still notice a stain, you can try cleaning it with a solvent cleaner such as rubbing alcohol, acetone, or mineral spirits. Apply the solvent cleaner onto a clean cloth and gently rub at the stain until it is gone. You can also try using a laundry detergent on spot – mix one teaspoon of detergent with two cups of water and blot it onto the stained area while rubbing it in. Rinse the area with cold water afterwards and repeat the process if needed.

Using Olive Oil

If you don't have any cleaning solvents or detergents at hand, olive oil can be used as an alternative. Put a healthy amount of olive oil over the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, take a soft cloth and brush away excess. After this, put your jacket into the washing machine on a delicate cycle and you should be good to go!

Conclusion

Tree sap stains are no match for these simple strategies. Keep in mind that if the stain is severe, spot cleaning may not be enough – you may need to throw your garment into the wash to get the job done!

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