A common question we get asked is how to remove the oil from poison ivy on clothes. An easy way is to wash clothing with Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser. This short video shows how to remove poison ivy, oak and sumac oil from your clothing.
Poison ivy, oak and sumac rashes are caused by your body's allergic reaction to the resinous oil produced by the plants. This oil is called urushiol (pronounced oo-roo-she-all). This oil can rub onto your clothing when you encounter the plants and stay until it is washed off. It is common to get a rash while handling or wearing clothing that has come in contact with the oil. Consider cleaning all clothing which may have touched the plants. This might also include jackets, gloves and shoes.
It is important to wash your clothing with a detergent that can break up the oil. This video shows how to use Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser to remove poison ivy, oak and sumac oil. Remember to use Tecnu Original like you would a stain remover. Apply it to dry clothing before you launder the items. It is suggested that you wash contaminated clothing separately from other laundry.
