What is the best way to remove tree sap stains from a maxi dress?

Rubbing alcohol or acetone is the quickest and simplest way to remove tree sap stains from a maxi dress. If that doesn't work, you can try using a detergent and hot water mixture, baking soda and vinegar, hairspray, petroleum jelly, or WD-40. If none of these methods work, you can take the dress to a professional dry cleaner.

Can I use any type of detergent for removing tree sap stains?

It is best to use a liquid detergent for removing tree sap from a maxi dress. Powdered detergents can be too abrasive and can damage the fabric.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Tree sap > Maxi dress

7 Proven Ways To Remove Tree Sap Stains From Your Maxi Dress

Tree sap can be a real nuisance, leaving sticky and stubborn stains on fabrics like maxi dresses. It can be hard to get it off, but don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are 7 proven methods for getting tree sap stains out of your lovely maxi dress.

Updated 11 Mar 2023

By Blaž Stančič

Method 1: Rubbing Alcohol or Acetone

The quickest and simplest way to start the removal process is to apply rubbing alcohol or acetone directly onto the sap stain. Gently dab the area with a cloth or cotton ball soaked in either liquid. This should loosen the tree sap and make it easier to remove.

Method 2: Detergent & Hot Water

If the rubbing alcohol isn't working, then you can try using a bit of liquid detergent mixed with hot water. Mix it together until it becomes a foamy lather, then dip a cloth into the solution and rub it over the sap stain. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get the sap off the fabric.

Method 3: Baking Soda & Vinegar

You can also try mixing baking soda with vinegar to make a paste. Apply paste to the sap stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing the area with a cloth or brush. This should help to break down the tree sap and make it easier to remove.

Method 4: hairspray

An unexpected but effective way to remove tree sap from a maxi dress is to use hairspray. Soak a cloth in hairspray and dab it onto the sap stain, then leave it for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. The hairspray should dissolve the sap and make it easy to lift off the fabric.

Method 5: Petroleum Jelly

If you don't have any of the other items at hand, you can also try using petroleum jelly. Spread some petroleum jelly onto the sap stain and leave it overnight. This should help to loosen sap so that you can easily wipe it away with a damp cloth next day.

Method 6: Use WD-40

WD-40 is another great option for removing tree sap from your maxi dress. Spray a small amount directly onto sap stain and let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth. Repeat if necessary, but be careful not to get any on the rest of the fabric.

Method 7: Professional Dry Cleaning

If all else fails, you can always take maxi dress to a professional dry cleaner. They will be able to deep clean the fabric and get rid of any stubborn tree sap stains. It might be a bit more expensive, but it's worth it for getting a beautiful dress back in tip-top shape.

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