Gasoline spills are some of the worst stains to remove because in addition to the stain, you have to deal with the smell. Baking soda can help absorb the gasoline and neutralize the odor.
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: Up to 1 hr.
Here's How:
- Remove excess gasoline by blotting.
Using a clean white cloth, blot up as much gasoline as possible.
- Use baking soda to absorb the gasoline.
Sprinkle baking soda onto the stained area and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Dump the baking soda off of the stain.
- Rub liquid dish soap into the stain.
Allow the clothing to sit for up to 5 minutes before soaking in hot water for 30 minutes.
- Use more baking soda.
If any scent of gasoline or hint of the stain remains, make a baking soda paste and rub it directly onto the stain. Allow it to air dry and then brush the baking soda off of the clothing.
- Use a stain stick, gel, or spray.
Apply a stain remover to the fabric according to the directions. You'll want it to sit for at least 5 minutes. Wash in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric.
Tips:
- If you still have any gasoline smell left, you might also try a vinegar and water soak for 30 minutes.
- As a last resort, you can also add a little orange cleaner to the wash load to help break down the traces of gasoline and get rid of the smell. Look for an all-purpose cleaner derived from oranges, like OrangeGlo's Orange Clean All-Purpose cleaner or Fantastik Orange Action Cleaner. If you've doused a gallon of gasoline on thick denim jeans, you may need to use the whole bottle.
What You Need
- Clean white cloth
- Baking soda
- Liquid dish soap
- Stain stick, gel, or spray
- Vinegar (optional)
- Orange Oil Cleaner (optional)
