How to Remove Tree Pitch

Getting stuck with tree pitch on your skin, car, or clothes is the worst. It is sticky and messy. And if you don’t deal with it turns into a gluey nightmare. Whether you are a homeowner or an outdoor environment enthusiast, chances are you have encountered it once in a lifetime. We understand how it can be a nuisance to be dealt with. So, if you are wondering how to remove tree pitch, this guide gives you the easiest step-by-step fixes using stuff you probably already have at home. So buckle up for an informative ride! 

What Is Tree Pitch?

Tree pitch is a thick and sticky substance that comes from certain trees. This comes from pine, fir, and spruce trees. It is also called tree sap, tree resin, or even tree glue.

But the pitch is thicker and stickier than sap.  Trees use it to heal themselves when they are cut or damaged. You can usually find it oozing from a tree wound or even dropping from branches onto your car, clothes, or skin. 

Why You Need to Remove Tree Pitch Fast

Pitch isn’t just annoying—it can cause real damage.

If left alone, it:

• Hardens and stains most surfaces 
• Attracts dirt, bugs, and debris 
• Can damage your car paint, clothing, or even skin 
• Is hard to remove once it sets in 

Letting pitch sit too long = turning a small job into a nightmare. The faster you act, the easier it is.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Skin

Got pitch on your hands or arms? Try this simple 3-step method:

 You’ll need:

• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) 
• A clean cloth or paper towel 
• Mild soap and warm water 

 How to Remove it?

Soak a corner of the cloth with alcohol, then rub the pitch-covered area gently.
Keep wiping until the stickiness is gone. To remove the residues, wash with soap and water to remove residue. You can use hand sanitizer as well if you don’t have alcohol.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Hair

Yup, pitch can fall into your hair, too. This usually happens while hiking or camping under pine trees.

You’ll need:

• Olive oil or coconut oil 
• A wide-tooth comb 
• Clarifying shampoo 

 What to do:

First, rub oil into the sticky and let it stick for a few minutes. Use your fingers or comb to rake your hair, working out the pitch. Then rinse with shampoo to remove oil and residue. It will work like magic.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Clothing

Pitch on your shirt, pants, or hoodie? Don’t toss it in the wash just yet. That will just set the stain deeper.

Instead, follow these steps:

You’ll need:

• Rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone 
• Ice cubes or a freezer 
• A dull knife or spoon 
• Laundry detergent 

What to do:

Freeze the pitch first.  Put the clothing in the freezer (or use ice) to harden the sap. Scrape off what you can using the dull edge of a knife. Then soak and blot the spot with rubbing alcohol. Don’t rub and avoid hot water as it can melt the pitch. Wash using heavy-duty detergent.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Tools and Equipment

Got sticky pitch all over your pruners, rakes, or ladders? Don’t worry—it won’t wreck your gear.

You’ll need:

• WD-40 or mineral spirits
• Rag or steel wool (for tough spots)
• Gloves (optional)

What to do:

Spray WD-40 directly on the sap and let it soak in for 5 minutes. Wipe off with a rag or use steel wool if needed. To remove residue, wash tools with soap and water. You can reapply many times if the pitch has hardened. 

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Outdoor Gear

Pitch doesn’t care what it lands on. It can stick to tents, backpacks, jackets and sleeping bags

You’ll need:

• Mineral spirits or citrus-based cleaner 
• A rag or paper towel 
• Mild soap and water 

What to do:

Dab the sticky spot with a cloth soaked in mineral spirits. Wipe it off with water and soap after a few minutes. Then, dry it.

 Warning: Don’t use heat or throw it in the dryer as it can spread the pitch deeper into the fabric.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Car Paint

Tree pitch on your car is more than annoying. It can actually eat into your clear coat if you leave it there too long.

 You’ll need:

• Rubbing alcohol (at least 70%) 
• Microfiber cloth 
• Optional: bug and tar remover  
• Car wax or sealant (for aftercare) 

What to do:

Soak the microfiber cloth with alcohol. Then, press it gently on the pitch for 30 seconds to loosen it. Wipe the area slowly in circular motions.Apply alcohol if needed but don’t rush and scrub hard. Once the pitch is removed, rinse and dry the area and apply car wax to protect the paint.

How to Remove Tree Pitch From Windshields and Windows

Tree pitch also falls on properties that are too close. Yes, glass is easier to work with but one still needs to be careful.

 You’ll need:

• Glass cleaner 
• WD-40 or white vinegar 
• Plastic razor scraper 

 What to do:

Spray WD-40 or vinegar directly on the pitch spot and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to soften. Use a plastic razor scraper to lift it off. Then, wipe clean with a cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Avoid metal blades at all costs as they can scratch your windshield.

 Removal of Tree Pitch from Hands Without Chemicals

If you are not into using alcohol or synthetic stuff, no worries. Try these natural remedies instead:

Option 1: Coconut oil + baking soda

Mix equal parts into a paste. Rub it into your hands. Wipe clean with a paper towel and then wash with soap and warm water

Option 2: Lemon juice

Cuts through sap naturally. It smells good too. 

Option 3: Sugar scrub

Make your own: sugar + dish soap. It acts like a gentle exfoliator.

Choose any of the above cleaning solutions. All these options are skin-safe, eco-friendly, and totally effective

How to Prevent Tree Pitch in the Future

Wouldn’t it be best to never deal with tree pitch again? Here is how you lower your chances of happening:

 For Your Car:

• Avoid parking under pine or fir trees 
• Use a car cover if you are camping or leaving it outside 
• Apply a ceramic coating or wax to make the pitch easier to clean 

 For Your Gear:

• Keep outdoor items in bins or under tarps 
• Don’t store things under overhanging branches 

 For Your Yard:

• Prune trees regularly. This will make it less likely that branches don’t drip on patios or driveways. 
• Hire a local arborist to remove diseased limbs that leak extra pitch 

Final Thoughts on How to Remove Tree Pitch

Tree pitch is sticky, stubborn, and sneaky. But it is not unbeatable. If you act quickly
And use the right tools, you can beat it every single time. Whether it’s your car, your shirt, or your hands, you now know exactly how to remove tree pitch without losing your mind. 

Want to hire an arborist to avoid getting your hands dirty and restore the functionality of your landscapes? Hire our professionals at Mt Vernon Tree Service for a hassle-free experience. We are equipped with superior cleaning solutions to make your properties pitch-free.