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How to Get Tar Out of Plastic/laminate

No widely-documented safe home treatment — professional cleaning recommended.

How old is the stain?

Fresh Tar stain on Plastic/laminate

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
  2. Blot — never rub — with a clean white cloth dampened with cool water.
  3. Check the care label; use only what it allows.
  4. If the stain persists, or the item is delicate or valuable, take it to a professional cleaner.

Don’t do this

  • When no safe home treatment is documented, a professional cleaner is the right call.

Sources: Consumer Reports; Michigan State University Extension (PDF); King University stain removal guide (PDF)

Dried / set Tar stain on Plastic/laminate

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
  2. Blot — never rub — with a clean white cloth dampened with cool water.
  3. Check the care label; use only what it allows.
  4. If the stain persists, or the item is delicate or valuable, take it to a professional cleaner.

Don’t do this

  • When no safe home treatment is documented, a professional cleaner is the right call.

Sources: Consumer Reports; Michigan State University Extension (PDF); King University stain removal guide (PDF)

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Frequently asked questions

Is a fresh Tar stain easier to remove than a dried one?

Almost always. Treat Tar as soon as possible — dried stains need rehydrating and longer treatment times, and some stains set permanently with heat or age.

Should I test the treatment on Plastic/laminate first?

Yes. Always test any treatment in an inconspicuous area of the Plastic/laminate first, and check the care label before you begin.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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