How to remove tree resin from clothes after your autumn outings

Picking mushrooms, gathering chestnuts or simply enjoying a walk in the countryside are some of the top plans for autumn. However, these outings have one small drawback: resin stains from trees that cling to our clothes or footwear and can seem impossible to remove. The good news is that with a few simple tricks and products we probably already have at home, we can get rid of them without damaging the fabric. We are going to explain how to remove tree resin from clothes, step by step.

The cold trick: how to use ice to harden and scrape off the stain

Ice is one of the most effective methods for removing resin stains. The aim is to freeze and harden the resin so it comes away from the fabric more easily. To do this:

1. Put several ice cubes in a plastic bag to avoid wetting the garment. Place the bag over the stain for around 15 minutes, or until the resin has hardened.
2. Once the resin is frozen, use a plastic spatula or a blunt knife, such as a butter knife, to scrape it off carefully without damaging the fabric.
3. Little by little, the resin will come away from the garment.
4. Brush the area with a soft-bristle brush or a clean toothbrush to remove any remaining resin.
5. Finally, wash the garment following the usual washing instructions.

How to remove tree resin from clothes using alcohol, nail varnish remover or oil

Alcohol

Alcohol helps dissolve the sticky components of the resin. You can use 96° alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, from a hardware shop or drugstore — both work.

• Apply a generous amount to the stain.
• Rub gently with a clean microfibre cloth.
• Once the stain has disappeared or noticeably faded, wash the garment in the washing machine on a long programme at 30°C.

Vegetable or olive oil

This method is particularly useful for hard-wearing fabrics, such as heavy cotton or denim.

• Place a piece of cardboard or a rigid surface underneath the garment where the stain is to stop it spreading.
• Apply a few drops of oil to the resin and leave it to work for a few minutes.
• Remove the resin with a spatula or a teaspoon.
• Then apply washing-up liquid to the area to remove any excess oil.
• Finally, wash the garment with detergent following the instructions on the label.

Acetone nail varnish remover

If it is only a small stain, acetone nail varnish remover can also be used.

• Before using it, test the product on a small area out of sight to make sure it does not damage the fabric.
• Place a clean cloth or absorbent paper underneath the stain.
• Dampen a cotton wool pad with nail varnish remover and press it onto the resin without rubbing.
• Leave it to work for a couple of minutes.
• Remove the stain with a clean cotton pad, using gentle movements until the resin comes away.
• Wash the garment as usual.

Final wash: temperature and detergent to prevent rings

Once the resin has been removed, it is important to do a full wash to eliminate any residue that may remain in the fabric.

It is best to use a long programme between 30 and 40 °C with your usual detergent, always following the washing instructions on the garment.

One last tip to stop the stain coming back: After washing the garment, avoid using the tumble dryer until you have checked that the stain has completely disappeared. Heat can set any trace of resin that may have been left behind, making it harder to remove afterwards. It is best to let the clothes air dry and check the area before putting them away.