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HOW TO WASH GAS FROM CLOTHING AND REMOVE GAS SMELL

It’s difficult to mistake the potent smell of gasoline. While it’s a strong scent that can be hard to get rid of, with the proper care it’s possible to remove gasoline stains and odors from clothing. Read the steps below to discover some tips on how.

Does Gasoline Stain Clothes?

As a petroleum-based fuel, gasoline is insoluble in water, which means if left untreated it can stain clothes. However, some of the chemicals that make up gasoline can dissolve easily in water. If washed and treated properly it’s possible to remove gasoline stains and smells from clothing. Follow the steps below to find out how to get gas stains out of clothes.

HOW TO WASH GAS FROM CLOTHES

Remember– it’s a fire hazard to put gasoline stains in the washer or dryer. Always wash gasoline stains out by hand, and refer to the item’s care tag for specific cleaning instructions. Follow the steps below to learn more about how to help remove the smell of gasoline from your clothes.

Supplies
  • Solvent-based stain remover
  • Dish soap
  • Ammonia
  • Paper towels
  • Baking soda
Tools
  • Large bucket

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Step 1: BLOT THE GASOLINE AWAY

  • Using a paper towel, gently press against the gasoline stain

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Step 2: APPLY BAKING SODA

  • Sprinkle baking soda over the gasoline stain

  • Allow the baking soda to soak into the stain for 24 hours

  • Remove the baking soda with water

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Step 3: PRETREAT WITH STAIN REMOVER

  • Cover the gasoline stain with stain remover
  • Let the solvent-based stain remover soak for about 10 minutes
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If this method doesn’t work, try applying a thin layer of dish soap to the gas stain for 10 minutes.

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STEP 4: PRE-SOAK IN AMMONIA (OPTIONAL)

  • Fill your washer with warm water and add 1 cup of household ammonia. 

  • Soak the garment for 2 to 3 hours

  • Drain and rinse the garment

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STEP 5: SOAK THE CLOTHING

  • Fill a large bucket with warm water 
  • Soak the clothes for at least 30 minutes in warm water

  • Rinse thoroughly

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STEP 6: WASH THE CLOTHING BY HAND, ONLY

Items with flammable substances on them should not be washed in a washer or dried in a dryer. So, be sure to wash the gasoline stains out by hand.

 

NOTE: Even after removing the stain, you should avoid washing or drying this garment in a machine moving forward. It can be hard to tell if the flammable substance is completely removed from a garment, so consider any garments exposed to gasoline stains hand-wash only items.

Person placing clothes into a top load washing machine Person placing clothes into a top load washing machine

HOW DO YOU REMOVE GAS SMELL FROM CLOTHES?

Gasoline is potent, but it’s possible to remove the strong smell from clothing. Small amounts of ammonia, baking soda or vinegar can help neutralize the strong smell of gasoline.

Be sure to test any chemicals on a small, inconspicuous spot on your garment to make sure it will not cause damage or remove any dye from the fabric. Learn more about how to remove tough odors from clothing.

SHOP MAYTAG® WASHERS

For everyday loads of laundry, find the cleaning power you need from Maytag brand to stay ahead of lingering stains and smells on laundry day. Shop the entire selection of Maytag® washing machines to find the best fit to keep up with your family. 

GET MORE STAIN REMOVAL TIPS WITH MAYTAG Brand

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