Vaseline is a versatile product that can be used for various purposes. It’s commonly used as a moisturizer for dry skin, but it can also be used to remove makeup, treat burns, and even shine shoes. However, Vaseline can be difficult to remove from clothing if it gets on it. If you’re wondering how to get Vaseline out of clothes, there are a few simple steps you can follow.
First, try to scrape off as much of the Vaseline as possible using a dull knife or spoon. Be careful not to damage the fabric. Next, apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain and rub it in gently. Let the soap sit on the stain for a few minutes, then rinse it out with water. If the stain is still visible, you can try using a stain remover. Apply the stain remover to the stain and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the package. Finally, rinse the stain remover out with water.
If you’re still having trouble removing the Vaseline stain, you can try using a commercial laundry stain remover. Laundry stain removers are specifically designed to remove tough stains, including Vaseline stains. Apply the laundry stain remover to the stain and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the package. Finally, wash the garment in the washing machine as usual.
Using Dish Soap and Water
If the vaseline stain is fresh, you can try to remove it using dish soap and water. This method works best on light-colored fabrics.
Materials you’ll need:
- Dish soap
- Water
- Cloth or sponge
Instructions:
1. Blot the stain with a clean cloth or sponge to remove any excess vaseline.
2. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water to create a solution.
3. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently blot the stain.
4. Rinse the area with cold water and blot dry.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until the stain is removed.
Additional tips:
- Do not rub the stain, as this can spread it.
- If the stain is old or set, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution, such as a commercial stain remover.
- Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure that it does not damage the material.
Applying Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is an effective solvent for removing Vaseline from clothing. It is important to note that rubbing alcohol can be flammable, so it is important to use it in a well-ventilated area and to keep it away from open flames.
To remove Vaseline from clothing using rubbing alcohol, follow these steps:
- Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or sponge.
- Gently blot the Vaseline stain with the rubbing alcohol-soaked cloth or sponge.
- Be sure to work from the outside of the stain towards the center to prevent spreading the stain.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the Vaseline stain is removed.
- Rinse the stained area with cold water to remove any remaining rubbing alcohol.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for removing Vaseline from clothing using rubbing alcohol:
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or sponge. |
2 | Gently blot the Vaseline stain with the rubbing alcohol-soaked cloth or sponge. |
3 | Work from the outside of the stain towards the center to prevent spreading the stain. |
4 | Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the Vaseline stain is removed. |
5 | Rinse the stained area with cold water to remove any remaining rubbing alcohol. |
Using Baking Soda Paste
Gather Your Materials:
- Baking soda (1 tbsp)
- Water (a few drops)
- Spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create a thick paste: Mix 1 tbsp of baking soda with a few drops of water until you form a thick and spreadable paste.
- Apply the paste: Apply the baking soda paste liberally to the Vaseline-stained area. Use a spoon to gently spread the paste over the stain.
- Let it sit: Allow the paste to sit on the stain for at least 1 hour, or overnight for tougher stains. The baking soda will absorb the Vaseline and neutralize its oily components.
- Wash the clothes: Once the paste has had time to work, grab a clean cloth or sponge and dip it in lukewarm water. Gently dab or blot the stain to remove the baking soda paste. Rinse the area thoroughly with fresh water until the paste is completely removed.
- Check for results: Inspect the stained area to see if the Vaseline is gone. If the stain remains, repeat steps 2-4 as needed.
- Launder as usual: Once the stain is removed, launder the clothes as you normally would with your chosen detergent and water temperature.
– Inexpensive and readily available ingredients – Non-toxic and safe for most fabrics – Effective at removing fresh Vaseline stains |
– May not be as effective on old or dried-on stains – May require multiple applications for stubborn stains – Can leave a slight white residue on some fabrics |
Trying Hairspray
Hairspray is another effective solution for removing Vaseline stains from clothes. It contains alcohol, which helps to dissolve the Vaseline. To use hairspray, follow these steps:
- Spray a generous amount of hairspray onto the stain.
- Allow the hairspray to sit for a few minutes to dissolve the Vaseline.
- Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Rinse the stained area with cold water.
- Repeat steps 1-4 if necessary.
Here are some additional tips for using hairspray to remove Vaseline stains:
- Test the hairspray on an inconspicuous area of the garment first to make sure it does not damage the fabric.
- Use a non-aerosol hairspray, as aerosol hairsprays can leave a residue.
- Blot the stain gently, as rubbing can spread the Vaseline.
- Rinse the area thoroughly to remove all traces of hairspray.
Pros of Using Hairspray | Cons of Using Hairspray |
---|---|
Effective at removing Vaseline stains | Can leave a residue if not rinsed thoroughly |
Can be used on most fabrics | May damage delicate fabrics |
Easy to find and inexpensive | May not be as effective on old or set-in stains |
Utilizing Laundry Stain Remover
Laundry stain removers are specifically formulated to dissolve tough stains, including Vaseline. They come in various forms, such as liquids, gels, and sprays. Here are the steps to effectively use a laundry stain remover on Vaseline stains:
- Read the product’s instructions carefully to determine the specific application method and dosage.
- Apply the stain remover directly to the affected area of the clothing.
- Gently rub the stain remover into the fabric using a clean cloth or soft brush.
- Allow the stain remover to sit for the recommended period, typically 15-30 minutes.
- Rinse the stained area thoroughly with cold water.
- Wash the garment in the washing machine as usual, using a detergent and appropriate water temperature.
It’s important to note that some laundry stain removers may contain harsh chemicals that can damage delicate fabrics. It’s recommended to test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area of the garment before applying it to the entire stain.
Stain Remover Type | Application Method | Notes |
---|---|---|
Liquid | Apply directly to stain | May require a longer sitting time |
Gel | Apply directly to stain | Thicker consistency improves adhesion |
Spray | Spray onto stain | Convenient for large areas |
Utilizing WD-40
WD-40 is a well-known lubricant known for its grease-cutting abilities. It can be used to effectively remove Vaseline from clothing:
- Apply a small amount of WD-40 to a clean cloth.
- Gently rub the cloth over the Vaseline stain, working in small circular motions.
- Allow the WD-40 to sit on the stain for 10-15 minutes to allow it to penetrate and dissolve the Vaseline.
- Use a clean cloth moistened with water to wipe away the WD-40 and Vaseline residue.
- Rinse the area with cold water to remove any remaining WD-40 or Vaseline.
- Lay the clothing flat to air dry.
- If any Vaseline residue remains, repeat steps 2-6 as necessary.
- Once the stain is removed, wash the clothing in the washing machine as usual.
Caution:
- Test WD-40 on an inconspicuous area of the clothing to ensure it does not cause any discoloration or damage.
- Use WD-40 in a well-ventilated area, as it can have a strong odor.
- Keep WD-40 away from children and pets.
Preventing Future Vaseline Stains
To prevent vaseline stains from occurring in the future, consider the following tips:
1. Use Petroleum Jelly Sparingly
Avoid applying excessive amounts of vaseline to your skin. A small dab is usually sufficient for most needs.
2. Wear Protective Clothing
When working with vaseline, wear gloves and an apron to prevent accidental spills and stains on your clothes.
3. Apply Vaseline Away from Clothing
Avoid applying vaseline near the edges of your clothing or on areas that are likely to come into contact with fabrics.
4. Use a Barrier Cream
Before applying vaseline, consider using a barrier cream or lotion to create a protective layer between your skin and the fabric.
5. Wash Hands Thoroughly
Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying vaseline to prevent accidental transfer to clothing.
6. Keep Vaseline Containers Closed
Store vaseline in tightly sealed containers to prevent spills and leaks.
7. Avoid Using Vaseline on Delicate Fabrics
Delicate fabrics, such as silk or wool, are more susceptible to vaseline stains. Avoid using vaseline on these materials if possible.
8. Test Vaseline on a Small Area
Before applying vaseline to a large area of clothing, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it does not cause staining.
9. Choose Vaseline with a Low Viscosity
Vaseline with a lower viscosity is less likely to leave stains on clothing. Look for products that are labeled as “non-staining” or “low-staining.”
10. Consider Using a Vaseline Substitute
If you are concerned about vaseline stains, consider using a substitute product, such as lanolin or cocoa butter. These products are less likely to leave stains on clothing.
Other Tips:
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use a specific stain remover for petroleum jelly. | These products contain enzymes that break down the oil in the jelly. |
Apply white vinegar to the stain. | The vinegar’s acidity helps to dissolve the jelly. |
Coat the stain with baking soda. | The baking soda absorbs the oil and helps to lift it off the fabric. |
How to Get Vaseline Out of Clothes
Vaseline is a thick, greasy substance that can be difficult to remove from clothes. However, there are a few simple steps you can follow to get Vaseline out of clothes without damaging the fabric.
1. Blot up the excess Vaseline: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up as much of the excess Vaseline as possible. Be careful not to rub the Vaseline into the fabric, as this will make it more difficult to remove.
2. Apply a stain remover: Apply a stain remover to the Vaseline stain and allow it to sit for the amount of time specified on the product label. Be sure to test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure it does not damage the color or texture of the fabric.
3. Wash the garment: Wash the garment in hot water with a heavy-duty detergent. You may need to wash the garment multiple times to remove all of the Vaseline. If the Vaseline stain is still visible after washing, you can try applying a degreaser to the stain and washing the garment again.
4. Dry the garment: Once the garment has been washed, dry it on a low heat setting. Do not put the garment in the dryer if the Vaseline stain is still visible, as this will set the stain and make it more difficult to remove.
People Also Ask
How do you get dried Vaseline out of clothes?
To remove dried Vaseline from clothes, you can try the following steps:
- Scrape off any excess Vaseline with a dull knife or spoon.
- Apply a stain remover to the stain and allow it to sit for the amount of time specified on the product label.
- Wash the garment in hot water with a heavy-duty detergent.
- If the stain is still visible, you can try applying a degreaser to the stain and washing the garment again.
- Dry the garment on a low heat setting.