How to Get Gasoline Out of Clothing

Gasoline—something that most of us use every day. A petroleum-derived liquid, it’s used as fuel for internal-combustion engines, such as those used in cars. How much of it does an average vehicle use? Approximately 500 gallons per year. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that some people are starting to get worried. After all, fossil fuels are finite; use them enough and they will eventually run out. With that said, it probably won’t happen for a while. That’s not to say that it won’t become a problem in the future, however.

Dealing With Gasoline Stains and Spills

Gasoline is not something that you want to accidentally spill on yourself. For one thing, there’s the smell. Assuming that you breathe in large amounts of the vapor, it can lead to headaches, nausea, throat irritation, and vomiting. There’s a chance that it can cause breathing difficulties as well. But wait, that’s not all—it’ll also make you and whatever you’re wearing more flammable.

That’s not to say that you can’t wash it off, though. You can—you just have to be diligent about it. For example, you don’t want to put it in the clothes dryer.

The gasoline can easily ignite and cause a fire if exposed to high heat! Another thing is that you don’t want to wash it together with other items—the gasoline can easily transfer from fabric to fabric, which will make your situation worse.

How to Get Gasoline Out of Clothes

Accidentally got some gasoline on your clothes? Here’s how you can get it out.

Removing Gas Stains with ACTIVE Detergent

ACTIVE Detergent is the best option when you’re trying to remove gasoline stains. Here’s how to use it.

Step 1: Remove the Excess Gasoline

The first thing that you want to do is to blot the item with a clean towel. You want to remove as much of the gasoline as possible from your clothes.

When you’re finished, make sure to dispose of the towel properly. From there, saturate with water until it’s wet and seal the container. You can then throw it out in the trash.

Step 2: Soak the Gasoline Stain in the Detergent Mixture

The next thing that you want to do is to pretreat your clothes. Fill a sink or container with water and add in a scoop of ACTIVE detergent.

Allow the powder to dissolve fully before putting the item. Afterward, let it soak for 15-20 minutes. It’s important that you use hot water for this step as cold water won’t be enough to remove the gasoline fully.

Once the gasoline stain is gone, you can wash the garment normally in the washer.

Using Baking Soda as a Stain Remover

Baking soda is another option. Not only will it act as a stain remover but it’ll also help eliminate that gas smell.

Step 1: Create a Baking Soda Paste

Blot away the excess gasoline with clean paper towels. Start by mixing two parts baking soda to one part water in a small bowl.

Step 2: Apply the Paste Onto the Gas Stain

Using a soft bristle brush, apply it onto the gasoline stain. Rub it into the fabric lightly and allow it to air dry with the paste on.

Step 3: Brush the Powder Off Once It’s Dry

Once it’s dried, you can brush the powder off of the clothing. Repeat until the gasoline is fully removed from the item.

Alternative Option

Alternatively, you can soak the stained item in a baking soda solution. Start by filling a sink with hot water.

Add in a cup of baking soda and swirl the mixture with your hand until the powder is dissolved. Place your clothes in and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.

Rinse afterward and check to see if the odor is still present. If it is, repeat the above steps.

Using White Vinegar to Remove Gasoline Stains

White vinegar is a great deodorizer and stain remover. Given that, it’s not surprising that you can use it to remove the gasoline smell from your clothes.

Keep in mind, however, that it won’t be enough to clean the stain. In other words, you’ll want to treat/wash the item first before using vinegar.

For example, if the odor is still present after using detergent, you can soak the garment in vinegar. Make sure to dilute it first, though, with water. Continuing soaking until the gasoline smells are gone.

Wash as normal and air dry afterward.

Using Ammonia to Get Rid of Excess Gasoline

Another solution is to use ammonia. More specifically, non sudsing household ammonia.

Place your gasoline-stained clothes in the washing machine and fill it with warm water. Next, add one cup of household ammonia.

Close the lid (there will be a pungent smell) and let it soak for several hours (overnight, if necessary).

From there, drain the dirty water and wash as usual with liquid detergent. Remember never to mix ammonia with bleach as it’ll lead to the release of flammable gas fumes.

Using Coffee Grounds to Remove Gas Stains

Believe it or not but you can also neutralize the smell with coffee grounds.

All you have to do is sprinkle it onto your clothes. From there, let it sit for several hours—the coffee grounds will neutralize the odor over time. Once the time is up, brush the grounds off.

Next, check to see if the gasoline smell is still present. If it is, repeat the above steps. If not, you can wash the garment as usual with detergent using the washing machine.

Getting Gasoline Stains Off Your Clothes – FAQs

Can you use dish soap for gasoline stains?

Liquid dish soap can be used to pretreat greasy and oily stains, including gas stains. However, it likely won’t be enough. We recommend using ACTIVE detergent afterward for thorough washing.

Can I use white vinegar to remove the gas smell?

White vinegar may help neutralize the smell that’s coming from the stubborn stains. Keep in mind, however, that it may not be effective for exceptionally heavy odors.

In cases like that, you’ll want to soak and wash the stain with ACTIVE Detergent.

Can I wash clothes with gasoline stains?

It’s best to pre-treat and remove the stain before throwing the item in the washing machine. If you’re dealing with a delicate fabric (e.g. silk), consider seeking professional dry cleaning services.

Can you remove set-in gasoline stains?

Removing set-in gas stains will be a little trickier but it is possible. Start by soaking the stain in a detergent solution – we recommend using ACTIVE Detergent. Let the garment sit for several hours before rinsing.

How do I remove the smell of gasoline from my clothes?

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in the sink and soak the item in the mixture for several hours. Proceed to wash the garment with ACTIVE Detergent afterward. If you want, you can even wash it with other clothing.

Should I take my stained clothes to the local dry cleaner?

Take the stained item to a professional dry cleaner immediately if you’re dealing with delicate fabrics such as wool or silk. The same goes for hand wash only items. They’ll have the tools and expertise necessary to remove the stain.

Knowing How to Remove a Gas Stain

And there you have it – five ways to get gasoline out of clothes! As you can see, there are several things that you can use, including DIY options such as baking soda and coffee grounds.

For the best results, however, we recommend using ACTIVE Detergent. It’ll completely get rid of all gasoline stains and odors and leave your clothes clean and fresh.

So the next time you’re dealing with a gas stain, you’ll know exactly what to do!