Wood-staining productscan be challenging to remove from fabric due to the dye, oils, and chemicals in them.

Removing large stainsespecially those wholly soaked through the fibersis nearly impossible.

But, there is hope for eliminating small drips or an accidental smear on clothes.

How to Remove Wood Stain From Clothes

The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight

The cleaning products or solvents you need are most likely available in your house.

Drying the stain in a clothes dryer will set it permanently.

Air dry it instead.

collage of two Gain Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap Plus Aroma Boost on a light tan background

The Spruce / Ana-Maria Stanciu

Dab Mineral Spirits on the Stain

Blot, do not rub.

If the stain has not disappeared after a second treatment, it is most likely permanent.

If the wood stain on clothing is older and has dried and set, it is also likely permanent.

tools for removing wood stain from clothes

The Spruce / Ana-Maria Stanciu

Test any detergent or cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not discolor the fabric.

If the garment is labeled dry clean only, immediately take it to yourdry cleaner.

Point out and identify the stain to help your professional cleaner choose the proper treatment.

dabbing mineral spirits on the stain

The Spruce / Ana-Maria Stanciu

You will need to try removing the stain before washing the item.

Tossing a piece of clothing in the wash before treating will typically not work to remove the stain.

Patiently dab at the stain until it is removed, then wash the garment normally.

Laundering according to the garment’s care label

The Spruce / Ana-Maria Stanciu

However, use acetone cautiously because it can remove the dye from some clothing.

Acetone can also dissolve acetate fibers.

Read the garment’s label for fiber content before using acetone to remove stains.

National Fire Protection Association.