How to Get Tar Out of Clothes? Tips and Tricks

Published by Enaam Siam on April 29, 2023 | Last updated on May 14, 2023

Tar is resistant to water, which makes it hard to remove from clothes using water again. Additionally, tar can be quite sticky, and if left on clothes for too long, it can become more challenging to remove. So, we are here to teach you How to Get Tar Out of Clothes?

Tar is a sticky and viscous substance that can cause stubborn stains on your clothes. It is commonly used in the construction industry and can also be found on roads and driveways. Removing tar from your clothes can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and techniques, you can get your clothes looking clean again.

In this CleanersAdvisor guide we will provide you with a helpful guide on how to get tar out of clothes? with several effective methods for removing tar stains.

Visit our other CleanersAdvisor guides, to read more about How to Get Vomit Smell Out of Couch, How to Get Pee Smell Out of Clothes and How to Get Weed Oil Out of Carpet.

Table of Contents

What is Tar?

Tar is a dark, viscous substance that is often used in construction, road work, and roofing.

It is also found in asphalt and some tree resins. Tar stains can be tough to remove, but with the right tools and techniques you can master How to Get Tar Out of Clothes?

Also, you can restore your clothes to their original condition.

Tar Stains Pre-Treatment

Before attempting to remove tar from clothes, there are a few pre-treatment steps that you can take to make the process more manageable.

The first step is to scrape off any excess tar from clothes using a plastic scraper or dull knife. Be sure to do this gently to avoid damaging the fabric. Once you have removed as much as tar as possible, apply a pre-treatment solution to the affected area.

You can use a commercial stain remover or make your solution by mixing equal parts of baking soda and dish soap. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before washing the clothes.

How to Get Tar Out of Clothes?

There are several ways to get tar out of clothes. Here are some effective methods that you can try:

Freeze the Tar

Place the affected garment in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for a few hours. The tar will harden, making it easier to scrape off with a blunt object like a spoon or credit card.

Apply a Commercial Tar Remover

You can purchase a tar remover at your local hardware or automotive store. Follow the instructions on the label and be sure to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first.

Use Peanut Butter

Apply a generous amount of creamy peanut butter to the tar stain and let it sit for about an hour. The oils in the peanut butter will break down the tar, making it easier to wash out.

Apply WD-40

WD-40 is a multi-purpose lubricant that can also be used to remove tar stains. Spray WD-40 on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the garment as usual.

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Use Mineral Spirits

Mineral spirits, also known as white spirits, can be used to dissolve tar stains. Apply a small amount of mineral spirits to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the garment as usual.

Additional Tips for How to Get Tar Out of Clothes!

Always test a cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first.
Avoid using hot water or high heat water when trying to remove tar stains, as this can cause the tar to melt and spread further.
Be patient! Tar stains can take some time to remove, so don’t give up too soon.

How to Get Tar Out of Clothes FAQs

Will vinegar remove tar stains from clothes?

While vinegar can help break down some stains, it may not be effective on tar stains. It is best to use a pre-treatment solution and solvent-based stain remover for tar stains.

Can I use petroleum jelly to remove tar stains from clothes?

Petroleum jelly may be effective in removing tar stains, but it can also leave an oily residue on the clothes.

Can I use bleach to remove tar stains from clothes?

No, bleach can actually make tar stains worse by setting the stain and making it more challenging to remove.

Conclusion

Removing tar from clothes can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and approach, it is possible to get your clothes looking clean again. Be sure to pre-treat the clothes, wash them correctly, and try traditional methods if the stain is stubborn.

Remember to avoid drying the clothes in the dryer if the stain is still visible, as this can set the stain and make it more challenging to remove. Instead, air dry the clothes in a well-ventilated area or outside in the sun.

With these tips, you can effectively remove tar stains from your clothes and get them looking clean and fresh again.