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How to Get Tar Out of Silk

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

How old is the stain?

Fresh Tar stain on Silk

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 Silk

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 Silk first?

Yes. Always test any treatment in an inconspicuous area of the Silk 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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