Stains made by tarlike substances are hard to remove, especially from
cotton material. First rub in petroleum jelly or lard to soften the
stain, then sponge with one of the grease solvents—carbon tetrachloride,
Stoddard solvent, gasoline, benzene—or dip the article in the liquid and
rub lightly between the hands. Repeat the treatment until the stain is
removed. If the material is washable, use warm soapy water after rubbing
in the petroleum jelly or lard.
For stains on carpets or rugs, scrape off as much as possible with a
dull knife. Then sponge with the grease solvent, using a brushing motion
so that you do not rub the stain into the carpet.