Resin stains demystified: Tips for easy removal from clothes
Resin stains on clothes are a common issue, especially after walks in the forest or gardening work. Discover how to effectively eliminate these stubborn stains and restore your clothes to their former glory.
Resin stains on clothes are not just an aesthetic concern but also a challenge for anyone managing a household. Resin, a sticky substance produced by trees, easily attaches to fabrics, creating hard-to-remove stains. Why is resin so tenacious? It’s down to its thick consistency, which forms a hard crust when dry.
Resin most often appears on clothes during forest walks, mountain trips, or gardening activities. It only takes a moment of inattention to brush against a tree and find a sticky resin stain on your clothing. Clothes made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen, which readily absorb substances, are most prone to stains.
How to remove resin stains?
Resin is a substance that is quite difficult to remove from clothing. When you notice a resin stain, allow it to dry. Fresh resin easily adheres to the material, and attempts to remove it may spread it further over the garment.
The first method to remove resin is using a low temperature. You can apply an ice cube to the stain or place the stained garment in the freezer. When the resin hardens, it becomes easier to crumble. You can remove it with a spatula or a knife. It's important to do this gently to avoid damaging the fabric. Any leftover crumbled resin can be removed with a lint roller.
Another method is the use of oil and alcohol. Gently rub oil into the resin stain, and then wipe it with alcohol. If you have tea tree oil at home, you can also use it to remove resin. This oil not only effectively removes stains but also leaves a pleasant scent. Before applying these methods, test them on the least visible part of the clothing to avoid potential stains or discolouration.
If home methods fail, turn to professional products. Isopropyl alcohol is one of the most effective agents for removing resin. Soak a cotton swab with alcohol and vigorously wash the stain until it starts to dissolve.
What to avoid when removing resin stains?
It is not recommended to use an iron for removing resin stains. High temperatures will melt the resin, causing it to penetrate deeper into the fabric. After such treatment, removing resin from the clothing may become impossible.
