How To Remove Roofing Tar From Clothes

November 30, 2025

2 min read

To remove roofing tar from clothes, act fast and use the right materials to break down the sticky substance. Roofing tar is sticky and can stain fabric permanently if you wait too long. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 135,140 roofers work in the construction industry, and many deal with tar stains on their work clothes every day. The good news is that several simple methods can lift tar from fabric before it sets in. You will need patience and the right products to get your clothes clean again.

What Works Best to Remove Tar Stains?

Ice is your first tool. Place ice or a freezer pack on the tar spot for 10 to 15 minutes. The cold makes tar hard and brittle, so it cracks and flakes off easier. Once the tar hardens, scrape it gently with a plastic scraper or old credit card. Do not use a knife, as it can tear the fabric.

Oil-based products work great on tar. Rub a small amount of cooking oil, peanut butter, or WD-40 directly onto the stain. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. The oil breaks down the tar’s sticky nature. Then scrub gently with an old toothbrush or soft cloth.

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Can You Use Solvents Safely?

Yes, but be careful with solvents. Rubbing alcohol, acetone, or mineral spirits can remove tar fast. Dab the solvent onto the stain with a cloth, not the whole item. Work from the outside of the stain inward so it does not spread. Test the solvent on a hidden part of the cloth first to make sure it does not damage the fabric.

Acetone works the fastest on tar. Apply it with a cotton ball and rub gently. Let it dry, then repeat if needed. According to ConsumerAffairs, roofing remains one of the most hazardous jobs in the U.S., which means roofer clothing gets dirty quickly and often.

What Happens After You Remove the Tar?

Wash the spot with warm water and dish soap right away. This step removes the oil or solvent you used. Rub the area with your fingers or a soft brush. Do not put the item in the dryer yet, as heat can set any remaining stain.

Check the stain before drying. If tar remains, repeat the ice or oil method. Once the stain is gone, wash normally in the washing machine with cold water. Use your regular detergent. Dry on a low setting or air dry to be safe.

Quick Tips for Tar Removal

Act fast before tar dries completely on the fabric
Always test solvents on hidden fabric first
Freeze the stain with ice to make it brittle
Use oil products like cooking oil or WD-40
Wash with dish soap and warm water after removal
Air dry or use low heat to avoid setting stains

Tar stains are tough, but they are not permanent. The faster you treat them, the better your results. According to IBISWorld, the U.S. roofing industry reached $81.3 billion in 2025, which shows how common roofing work is across the country. Whether you work in roofing or got tar on your clothes by accident, these methods will help save your favorite shirt or pants. Keep ice, oil, and solvent on hand if you work around roofing materials regularly.

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