Method 1: Liquid Dish Soap and Water
1. Blot up the excess fuel: As soon as possible, blot up any excess diesel fuel with a paper towel or a clean, dry cloth. This will help prevent the fuel from spreading and setting into the fabric.
2. Create a detergent solution: Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with a cup of warm water in a large basin or sink.
3. Soak the clothes: Place the diesel-stained clothing in the detergent solution and let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or longer if the odor persists.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the clothes thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of the soap and any remaining fuel residue.
5. Dry the clothes: Hang the clothes to dry in the sun or tumble dry them on the lowest heat setting. The sun's UV rays can help to further neutralize the odor.
Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar
1. Blot up the excess fuel: Blot up any excess diesel fuel with a paper towel or a clean, dry cloth.
2. Apply a paste: Make a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and white vinegar.
3. Apply the paste to the stain: Apply the baking soda and vinegar paste to the diesel fuel stain and rub it in gently with a soft brush or cloth.
4. Let it sit: Let the paste sit on the stain for at least 30 minutes, or longer if the odor persists.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the clothes thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of the paste and any remaining fuel residue.
6. Dry the clothes: Hang the clothes to dry in the sun or tumble dry them on the lowest heat setting.
Note: Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire garment to ensure that it doesn't cause any damage or discoloration. If the odor persists despite trying these methods, you may want to consider taking the clothes to a professional dry cleaner for specialized treatment.
