How to Remove Diesel Smell From Clothing
Diesel fuel comes from petroleum. It's long been used to power heavy-duty construction equipment like bulldozers, cranes and backhoes. Some cars and trucks use diesel fuel. Just like gasoline, it has a strong smell. When diesel fuel gets on absorbent material like clothing, it has a lingering odor because of its oily residue. You can't just wash the odor away using general washing methods. It takes a special treatment of the fabric to remove the residue. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Detergent-based stain remover
- Heavy-duty laundry detergent
- Washing machine
- Clothes dryer
Instructions
-
-
1
Apply a stain remover on the diesel fuel stains. Inspect the clothing to make sure you treat them each stain. Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions in order to achieve the best results. Or, use a heavy-duty laundry detergent to treat the stains. Use liquid, or make a runny paste with powdered detergent. Rub the detergent into the fabric well.
-
2
Wash the clothing separately in hot water, if the care tag allows. If you're unable to use hot water, use the hottest water temperature allowed according to the care label. Use the amount of heavy-duty laundry detergent that's recommended for a full load. Run the clothing with the diesel fuel on it through a regular-sized wash.
-
-
3
Remove the clothing from the washing machine. Inspect it to see if the diesel fuel stains are gone. Use your nose to smell it too, for any remaining odors. If any diesel fuel remains, repeat the entire process.
-
4
Place the cleaned, diesel-fuel-free clothing in the clothes dryer or hang it up to air dry.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Diesel fuel is flammable. Don't smoke near the stained clothing or get it near heat or open flames.
Don't put the clothing in the dryer if you can still smell the diesel fuel odor.
Use a detergent-based stain remover to remove diesel fuel, not a solvent-based product.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
