Rev Up Your Automotive Smarts

Say Goodbye to Transmission Fluid Stains: The Ultimate Guide to Clothing Decontamination

Quick summary

  • Test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it does not damage the material.
  • Once you have removed the stain, wash the garment in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric.

Transmission fluid is a vital component of your car’s transmission system. However, if it gets on your clothes, it can be a real headache to remove. The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to get transmission fluid out of clothes.

Step 1: Blot Up Excess Fluid

The first step is to blot up as much of the excess fluid as possible. Use a clean cloth or paper towels to gently dab the stain. Do not rub, as this can spread the fluid and make it more difficult to remove.

Step 2: Apply a Solvent

Once you have blotted up the excess fluid, it’s time to apply a solvent to help break down the stain. There are a few different solvents that you can use, including:

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Acetone
  • Mineral spirits

Caution: Test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it does not damage the material.

Step 3: Blot and Rinse

After you have applied the solvent, blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towels. Then, rinse the area with cold water. Repeat this process until the stain is gone.

Step 4: Wash the Garment

Once you have removed the stain, wash the garment in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric. Use a heavy-duty detergent and add an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all of the transmission fluid is removed.

Step 5: Dry the Garment

After washing, dry the garment on the highest heat setting that is safe for the fabric. This will help to remove any remaining solvent or transmission fluid.

Step 6: Inspect the Garment

Once the garment is dry, inspect it carefully to make sure that the stain is completely gone. If there are any traces of the stain remaining, repeat the cleaning process.

Finishing Up: Tips for Removing Transmission Fluid Stains

  • Act quickly. The sooner you start cleaning the stain, the easier it will be to remove.
  • Use a solvent that is appropriate for the fabric.
  • Blot, don’t rub.
  • Rinse the area thoroughly.
  • Wash the garment in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric.
  • Dry the garment on the highest heat setting that is safe for the fabric.

Information You Need to Know

Q: What is the best solvent to use to remove transmission fluid from clothes?

A: There are a few different solvents that you can use, including rubbing alcohol, acetone, and mineral spirits. Test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it does not damage the material.

Q: How do I get transmission fluid out of clothes if it has already dried?

A: If the transmission fluid has already dried, you may need to use a stronger solvent, such as acetone or mineral spirits. Be sure to test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first.

Q: Can I use bleach to remove transmission fluid from clothes?

A: No, you should not use bleach to remove transmission fluid from clothes. Bleach can damage the fabric and make the stain more difficult to remove.

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About the Author
Cars have been my passion from a young age as I enjoyed learning how engines work, spending hours dreaming about the supercars I hoped to own, and I now have my dream job as a product designer for a luxury automaker. In my spare time I love going to car...