Outdoor Itch Resource Center

Welcome to the outdoor itch resource center! Our goal is to help you stay itch and pain-free. We offer guides and how-to's to help you understand and avoid poison ivy and oak.

How to Use Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser on Pets, Clothing, Tools, Equipment and More

Harnessing Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser

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SKIN: Use within a few hours of exposure to help remove poison oak and ivy oil (urushiol) before rash begins. Once the rash has started, wash with Tecnu to help remove oils on skin allowing the healing process to begin without recontamination.


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TOOLS: Urushiol oils clinging to tools and equipment can cause rash. Clean equipment with a cloth saturated with Tecnu (check an inconspicuous corner of the equipment for possible surface damage before use). Wash thoroughly with soap and water.


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CLOTHING: Saturate contaminated, unwetted clothing with Tecnu in a bucket or dishpan (First check for color fastness by testing a concealed corner of the fabric). Let soak for several minutes. Launder clothing by itself as usual with detergent and hot water.


cat and dog icon on black backgroundPETS: Dogs, cats, horses and other furry pets can become contaminated by urushiol oil and can transfer poison oil to owners without being affected themselves. Saturate a cloth with Tecnu and wipe down the pet's coat. Then follow with a pet shampoo and water bath.


skunk on black backgroundSKUNK: If your pet is sprayed by a skunk, saturate a cloth with Tecnu and wipe down the pet's coat. Then follow with a pet shampoo and warm water rinse.

DO NOT LEAVE TECNU ON FUR. IT MUST BE COMPLETELY WASHED OFF WITH SHAMPOO AND WATER


tree brank dripping sap on black backgroundTREE SAP/PITCH: Tecnu can be used to clean pitch, tree sap, road tar, grass stains and many other difficult to remove nuisances from skin, clothing and tools. Apply Tecnu directly and rub until the stain dissolves. Rinse off with soap and water.


Tecnu Original Outdoor Skin Cleanser sitting on cliff edge

Updated on 10 Feb 2025