How to Remove Wax Stains from Clothes

Wax stain removal can be a bit of a challenge, but it's definitely possible to save your garments from ruin.

When removing wax drippings from your clothes, first things first -step away from the stain! Wax removal is easier once the wax has hardened, so let it dry, instead of working it deeper into the garment's fibers. Once the wax is solid, you can remove the bulk of it easily. Next, you'll want to use the trusty iron and paper towel trick to heat any residue and transfer it to the paper towel. Now, you can pre-treat using Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid and a soft-bristled toothbrush before washing. Read on for Tide’s step-by-step guide to removing wax from clothing and take the hassle out of wax stain removal:

Removing Wax Stains

Step 1

Remove Excess

Allow wax to dry and remove excess by scraping it off or by freezing the garment and snapping off the frozen wax. To remove any remaining wax, place white unpatterned paper towels on either side of the fabric and use an iron on a low, non-steam. Be careful not to leave the iron in one spot for too long.

A person removing excess stain from a piece of white garment with a toothbrush

Step 2

Pre-treat

If any oil spots remain from the wax, pre-treat by applying Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid to the spot, work it into the stain by rubbing the garment together gently or by using a soft bristled toothbrush. Let it sit for 5 minutes.