Saturday, September 8, 2018

Removing Gasoline From Rubber Sole Shoes

A gas pump failed to shut off last night, spilling a gallon or two on the ground.  By the time I reached it, there was a big puddle.  My pants had the smell, but cleaned out well,  The rubber soled shoes still smell of gasoline, even after several turns through the washer and the baking soda and dish soap recommended by some websites.  Any suggestions?  They are Nikes, but I am reluctant to Kaepernick them.

6 comments:

  1. " They are Nikes, but I am reluctant to Kaepernick them. "

    And they would light up so nicely...

    Sunlight and plenty of it. The hydrocarbons will eventually evaporate and/or break down. Maybe a day or two.

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  2. The rubber may deteriorate from the exposure, so be prepared to sacrifice them.

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  3. Just saw this advertised the other day. https://www.briggsandstratton.com/na/en_us/innovations/parts-accessories/gas-off.html

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  4. Goop. WalMart (and other auto parts stores). In the automotive section.

    1 pound and larger tubs. Really good for removing petroleum products from clothing. Rub it in and let soak for 20 minutes, and then rinse/wash. Has an after odor, so I generally wash with laundry or dish soap to remove the smell. Some notice it, some don't.

    The potential problem with Nike shoes is some of them are a foam construction. Might not be cleanable without damage.

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  5. If you can risk them sitting in the sun a couple of days, just do it. Probably some gasoline in liquid form got trapped in bubbles in the rubber. Water will not remove it or dilute it.

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  6. GoJo or similar mechanic's waterless hand soap.

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