How to Remove Gasoline Smell from Clothes

Important Safety Note First

Gasoline-soaked clothing is a fire hazard. If a garment is heavily saturated with gasoline, do not put it in the washing machine or dryer — the fumes can ignite. Air out heavily saturated clothing outdoors first until the gasoline has largely evaporated before attempting to wash.

Step 1: Air Out First

Hang the garment outdoors in a well-ventilated area for at least 1–2 hours before washing. This allows the most volatile gasoline compounds to evaporate and reduces the fire risk from washing machine fumes.

Step 2: Pre-Treat with Dish Soap or Baking Soda

Gasoline is oil-based, so it needs a degreasing pre-treatment:

• Dish soap method: Apply a generous amount of dish soap (Dawn or similar) directly to the affected area. Work it in gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes. Dish soap is formulated to cut through grease and oil.
• Baking soda method: Sprinkle baking soda generously over the affected area and let sit for 30 minutes to absorb remaining gasoline before brushing off and washing.

Step 3: Wash with Odor-Fighting Detergent

Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric using a detergent with strong odor-fighting properties like Arm & Hammer plus OxiClean with Odor Blasters. Add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle for extra odor neutralization.

Step 4: Check Before Drying

After washing, smell the garment carefully before putting it in the dryer. If any gasoline smell remains, repeat the wash — do not put it in the dryer. Heat from the dryer can set the smell and create a fire hazard if gasoline residue remains.

Step 5: Air Dry

Air dry outdoors if possible. Fresh air and sunlight help dissipate any remaining odor compounds. Only use the dryer once you're certain the gasoline smell is completely gone.

For Persistent Smell

If the smell persists after washing, use Zero Odor eliminator spray on the affected area after washing and before drying. Allow to dry completely and reassess.

Final Thoughts

The key steps for gasoline smell removal are: air out first for safety, pre-treat with dish soap to cut the oil, wash with an odor-fighting detergent, and never use the dryer until the smell is completely gone. Most gasoline smells are fully removable with this process.