Tecnu works to remove poison ivy, oak and sumac oils. Simply apply Tecnu directly onto dry skin, rub vigorously for two minutes, and then rinse with water or wipe off with a paper towel or cloth. Use Tecnu within 8 hours after exposure to poison oak, ivy or sumac to remove the rash-causing urushiol oil from skin before the rash begins. If a poison ivy or oak plant rash has started, washing with Tecnu can help to remove any noxious oil on the skin. This allows the natural healing process to begin without the possible spreading of poison ivy or oak (aka, re-contamination). Poison oak and ivy oil (urushiol) can also spread from contaminated shoes, clothing, gloves, pets and tools. The rash-causing urushiol does not evaporate, so it can, therefore, remain on these items for months or even years at a time. Use Tecnu Original to wash off the oil to help avoid a poison ivy or oak rash from secondary contact. Tecnu also removes skunk odor, pitch and sap from skin, grime, grease and cable gel. For laundering, Tecnu can be applied directly to gear or clothing and then washed in a normal fashion. It is recommended that you do a small patch test on the clothing before using on entire article.