Sap is particularly problematic because it’s so sticky.
However, never dry this stain unless it’s completely gone.
Heat can set the stain making it more difficult to remove.
The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight
Read on to learn how to remove tree sap stains from clothes.
Rinse the Stain
Rinse the stained area with hot water.
If you still see the stain, treat it again.
The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska
You may need to work through multiple layers of dried tree sap or pitch.
Wash in Hot
Wash the fabric at thehottest water temperaturerecommended on the garment’scare label.
Double-check the area to ensure the stain is gone before tossing the item in a clothes dryer.
The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska
You might even need to let the fabric air dry to be sure.
It can sometimes be difficult to tell if a stain is fully gone from a wet, dark fabric.
If the stain remains, repeat the stain removal treatment steps.
The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska
The alcohol in the sanitizer will help dissolve the sap.
Blot with a rag or paper towel to remove the bulk of the stain.
DIYers report some success with other home remedies.
The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska
Also, do not use these cleaning steps on suede clothing.Suede has different cleaning procedures.
Rinse, then wash the item with heavy-duty laundry detergent with the hottest water the fabric can tolerate.
Check to see if the stain is removed before drying.
The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska
Hydrogen peroxides bleaching properties can tackle the brownish discoloration that can result from sap stains.
Gently blot sap stain with a hydrogen peroxide-soaked cotton ball.
Allow hydrogen peroxide to sit on the fabric for 10 minutes before washing as usual.
Always do a colorfast test on colored clothes before using hydrogen peroxide to treat a stain.
When using rubbing alcohol, test for colorfastness on colored clothes before proceeding to treat the sap stain.
