How to Remove Tar Stains from Clothes

Tar, bitumen and road asphalt are some of the toughest marks workwear ever sees — sticky, dark and laughably resistant to a normal wash. Luniva Pro Formula is the heavy-duty solvent-action degreaser engineered for this exact stain family. Spray, wait 1–3 minutes for the solvent action to soften the bitumen, then wash as normal, following the garment care label. Bleach-free, colour-safe on most workwear.

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Why tar bonds permanently to fabric

Tar and bitumen are heavy-petroleum residues designed to bond to almost anything they touch. Once they cool on the fibre they form a flexible film that detergent cannot penetrate. A solvent-action degreaser like Pro Formula softens the film and releases it from the weave in one pass.

How to use Luniva on tar, bitumen & asphalt · pro formula

Step 1 — Lift the surface tar: If the tar is thick, gently scrape excess off with a blunt edge once it has cooled. Don't rub it into the weave.
Step 2 — Spray Pro Formula and wait 1–3 min: Saturate the entire mark and a border around it. The tar will visibly soften and the colour will lift.
Step 3 — Wash separately as normal, following the garment care label: Wash the garment on its own. Inspect before tumble-drying; repeat treatment once for stubborn residue.

Compliance note: Based on controlled laboratory testing. Performance may vary by stain age, fabric type and wash conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Will Pro Formula remove roofing tar and road bitumen?

Yes. Both are heavy-petroleum residues in the same family. Spray, wait 1–3 minutes for the solvent action to soften the film, then wash separately as normal, following the garment care label.

Is Pro Formula safe on coloured workwear?

Yes. Pro Formula is bleach-free and colour-safe on standard workwear and denim. Wash inside-out as normal, following the garment care label to protect dye.

Can I treat dried, set-in tar that has already been washed?

Yes — it just takes longer. Spray Pro Formula, leave 1–3 minutes, then wash as normal, following the garment care label. Repeat the treatment up to twice for fully cured bitumen.

Should I use the pink Enzyme bottle for tar?

No. The pink Enzyme bottle is built for protein and food stains. Tar is a heavy hydrocarbon — Pro Formula's solvent-action chemistry is what you need.

Do I need to wash tar clothing separately?

Yes. Always wash tar- and bitumen-treated garments on their own to protect everyday laundry from any trace residue.