Outdoor Blog
How to Get Diesel Out of Clothes
Trucks, trains, boats, construction equipment, farming equipment, generators, motorhomes and more all run on diesel. Usually, if you need something with a little extra punch, it is diesel. If you have worked with the fuel before then you know it is infamous for two things. Stains and odors.
It is bad enough when diesel leaks onto the floor of a garage and stains the floor but sometimes diesel ends up on you and your clothing. Diesel fuel can be nasty stuff and it isn’t easy to clean. Special methods and cleaning solutions are needed to resolve pesky stains and even then the odor can linger. Thankfully there are some solutions.
How do you remove diesel stains from clothing?
So you were fueling up a diesel generator or maybe a diesel truck and some of the fuel splashed down the front of your pants. Now what?
Diesel can be a tricky thing to remove from cloth and the stains can sometimes seem permanent. Combined with grease stains it can seem impossible. Some people just throw the clothing away, but that’s a waste. Instead of getting rid of a nice pair of jeans or your favorite shirt just follow the steps here to remove the stain.
Before we dive into that there are a few things you should consider:
- Is the stained garment labeled as “dry clean only”? If so then you need to take it to a professional dry cleaner. If you try to clean this yourself you will probably ruin the garment. Also, home dry cleaning kits won’t be effective and can even be dangerous to use when it comes to grease and diesel.
- The following steps are only meant for clothing. If you have a diesel stain on carpeting or upholstery you should use a different approach. We will cover that in another section of this article so keep reading!
- Just a reminder, diesel fumes are flammable and they can make you noxious. If you have a really bad stain you probably also have really bad fumes. Make sure that there are no open flames or electrical equipment that might spark near the stain and cause a fire. Also, open windows and doors to ventilate the area you are working in. Your body will thank you.
- Finally, after you remove the stain you might still notice diesel fumes. The next sections after this will cover how to get rid of diesel odors.
Steps for removing diesel stains
Step 1: Gather the right tools and supplies
For your supplies, you are going to need a solvent-based stain remover like OxiClean or Shout or an enzyme-based heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent like Tide. You might want baking soda as well. The baking soda is optional and it is included just to help fight the odor from the beginning. You will also need a soft-bristled brush (a toothbrush will do) and a washing machine and dryer/clothesline as well.
Step 2: Pretreatment
Begin by pretreating the stain with the solvent-based stain remover or enzyme-based heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent. Use the soft-bristled brush to rub this into the stain. More absorbent and tougher materials might need more work. Once that is done let the garment sit for 15-20 minutes so the pretreatment can fully soak in.
Step 3: Wash
Wash the item in the hottest water that the fabric can handle. Check the label on the garment for direction.
- Do not use any chlorine bleach with the stained garment. This can create harmful fumes!
- Do not wash the garment with other unstained clothing
After washing the item the stain should be gone. If it is still visible then repeat these first steps until the stain is gone. Old stains can be harder to get out so it is always better to clean a stained piece of clothing as soon as possible.
Step 4: Soak (Optional)
The stain is gone but the fuel odors might not be. This is the step to take care of that. Use one cup of baking soda in enough hot water to cover the garment and then let it sit like that overnight. Once the garment has soaked, wash it again like normal. In the next sections, we will cover other methods for tackling stubborn diesel odors.
Step 5: Dry
If the odor is completely gone then you can now dry the garment in a regular drying machine. However, if there is any odor do not use a drying machine! This can start a fire if sparks from the machine ignite fumes from the diesel. If there is some odor left, try air-drying the cloth. This might remove the last lingering smells.
Why does diesel smell bad?
Have you ever driven past a facility that uses lots of sulfur? That pungent odor, like rotten eggs, lingers in the air. Well, in the United States diesel has very high sulfur content. Combined with the nickel in diesel it works as a great lubricant for engines. Unfortunately, it also stinks.
How do you remove the smell of diesel from clothing?
If regular baking soda and air drying don’t do the trick then there are four other methods you can try to get the smell of diesel out of your clothing.
Method 1: Baking soda and vinegar
The only thing better than one deodorizer is two deodorizers. Just wash the garment with about half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of white vinegar and then leave it to air dry. This method is good but for really strong odors you might need to try something else.
Method 2: Coke and baking soda
You’re going to need a plastic tub of warm water, a cup of degreaser, a 2-liter bottle of Coca Cola, and a box of baking soda.
First, put the garment in the warm water with the degreaser and let it soak for a couple of hours. Then drain the tub and rinse it out. Next, fill it back up with clean water, the 2-liter bottle of Coke and the baking soda. Mix that all up and let it sit for up to 24 hours. After that just let the garment air dry, wash it regularly and you should be odor-free. This may seem a little unconventional but some people swear by it.
Method 3: Listerine
Speaking of unconventional. Listerine mouthwash is a great deodorizer. Just pour some into the washing machine and clean the garment like you normally would. This works for many odors actually. It turns out Listerine is good for more than just your teeth.
Method 4: Fast Orange
Fast Orange is a product that is very effective at removing grease from your hands but it also works to get rid of diesel fuel odors. You can find it on Amazon or even at Walmart. Just put the hand cleaner into your washing machine and let it do its magic.
Can you wash clothes with diesel fuel on them?
You can wash clothes with diesel fuel on them but it is always best to follow the guidelines previously mentioned. Don’t wash the clothing with other unstained garments and you should always pretreat the stain properly to make sure it comes off.
The most important thing to remember is that you should not place garments with diesel stains or diesel odors into a drying machine. This can cause a fire.
Is it dangerous to get diesel on you?
According to the World Health Organization:
“Diesel is not considered to be particularly toxic and accidental poisoning is very rare. However, if diesel is swallowed, medical advice should be obtained immediately as there is a small risk of short-term lung damage if vomiting occurs or if droplets of diesel are inhaled. Long-term skin exposure to diesel may result in eczema (dermatitis)and should be avoided.”
That’s the official word on diesel. If diesel is left on your skin for too long it will be absorbed. This can lead to eczema as mentioned but very large levels of exposure can also lead to kidney damage.
Diesel fumes can irritate your eyes, skin and respiratory tract and can ultimately cause dizziness, headache, and nausea. That’s just in the short term. Long term exposure can cause lung cancer, kidney damage and even increase the risk of a heart attack.
In short, it is always best to keep diesel off of you and your clothing. If you do get some on you you should get it off as soon as you can.
How to get diesel fuel off your skin?
If you have gotten diesel on your clothing then it is likely you have gotten it on your skin as well. If you know that you will be refueling something with diesel or that you will be working with diesel you should wear gloves, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and even eye protection. You’re better safe than sorry as they say.
If you have Fast Orange you can use the product to quickly get diesel and grease off your hands and other parts of your body. If you don’t have that you can try this common home remedy. First, fill one bottle with vinegar and another bottle with water. You can prepare this beforehand if you think you might get diesel on you.
Then, if diesel gets on you or soaks through your clothes you just need to douse the area with vinegar to wash away the diesel. Follow that up with the water and dry the area thoroughly with a clean towel.
It might help to label the bottles “Vinegar” and “Water” so you easily know which is which. If you regularly work with diesel you can keep these nearby.
How to get diesel fuel off of other things.
Diesel spills everywhere. It can end up on you, your clothes, and the ground. Sometimes you track it inside with you unaware that it is on the bottom of your shoes or you sit in a chair not knowing your backside is covered in the fuel. That creates some unique challenges. You can wash your clothes but you can’t just wash your carpeting or sofa. Here’s what to do instead.
Note: This method works for smaller stains on carpets or upholstery. If you accidentally dumped an entire jug of diesel on your living room carpet you are going to need a professional. Larger stains usually require something to be totally replaced.
Step 1: Gather your tools and supplies
You are going to need heavy-duty paper towels or rags, baking soda or kitty litter, and liquid dishwashing detergent such as Dawn. You will also need to find a shop vacuum, a soft-bristled brush, and a sponge.
Step 2: Blot
First, blot the stain with the towels and rags to remove as much excess liquid as possible. The key here is to blot and not wipe. Make sure you don’t spread the stain around.
Step 3: Soak up
Next, use the baking soda or kitty litter and sprinkle it over the spot to help further absorb the liquid as well as the odor. Leave this in place for about four hours so it can really work on the stain.
Step 4: Vacuum
Use the shop vacuum to pick up all the baking soda or kitty litter. If the powder is still damp then repeat step 3 again and proceed from there.
Step 5: Apply the cleaning solution
Mix a cleaning solution with one tablespoon of detergent and one cup of warm water. Using the soft-bristled brush, work this into the stain working from the outer edges towards the center so as to avoid spreading the diesel.
Step 6: Blot, rinse, and dry
Now blot the spot with a clean dry towel and then rinse it with a sponge dipped in regular water. This should remove any remaining soap. Let the area air dry for best results. Don’t use a hairdryer or any other heat source to dry it. If you can still see a stain after you have done all six steps then start from the top and do it all again.
What to do if a stain just won’t come out
You spilled diesel on your favorite pair of pants, you’ve tried every technique in this article and the stain is still there! Wow, well, what do you do? Many people would throw away the pants and buy another pair. You shouldn’t do that though. The pants are still useful in several ways.
- You can still wear them as work clothes. If the odor isn’t too bad then the pants might be useful for gardening, mechanical work, or anything else that might get you dirty.
- If the stain isn’t too big you might be able to cut out the offending section and replace it with a patch. No reason to throw the baby out with the bathwater. If you like the garment then you should try to save it.
- In a similar vein, you can also repurpose the material in the garment to make another one. Depending on how crafty you are you can make a new shirt out of the scraps of others.
- Speaking of scraps, worst case scenario you can cut up the garment and now you have wash rags. Use them in the kitchen, while camping, or even the next time you are handling something with diesel.
How to prevent getting diesel on your clothes.
A diesel stain can’t be prevented 100% but here are a few simple tips to help reduce the chances of one happening.
1. If you are working with diesel wear dark clothes that you don’t mind getting stained in the first place.
2. Work carefully and slowly. Fast and erratic movements can easily lead to spills.
3. If you are working with diesel make sure it is in a well-lit place so you can see what you are doing.
4. Watch your step. Throwdown wood shavings or kitty litter to help absorb diesel spills before they happen. You should also check the bottoms of your shoes to make sure you don’t bring a stain inside with you.
5. Don’t overfill things. Just when you think you can get one more drop in a fuel tank that’s when it overflows onto you.
Final Verdict:
Diesel fuel is becoming less common in vehicles and industry with some articles hailing “The death of diesel” as more countries ban vehicles that use it. Still, for many people, it is a part of life.
Workers, outdoors aficionados, and truck drivers alike deal with diesel on a daily basis. With that comes the occasional spill, stain, and unforgettable diesel fuel smell. With the right methods, a diesel stain can just be a nuisance instead of something that destroys a garment. Lingering odors can be gotten rid of in hours instead of days.
As long as diesel is around these techniques will be in practice. So, next time a refuel goes bad and you find yourself with diesel down the front of your leg, don’t worry. Just follow the steps we went over and you can get back to the task at hand.
Bonus tip: Want to learn more about diesel? Dive into the good, the bad, and the ugly of diesel. Why do we use it? What are the alternatives? And more.
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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