Gasoline is incredibly useful as a fuel, but it can be a bit of a nuisance if you end up with the smell lingering on your hands. Whether you’ve accidentally spilled some while refueling or working with gasoline-powered machinery, removing that lingering odor can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are several tried and true methods to get rid of that pesky gasoline smell. Here are four ways to get the smell of gasoline off your hands.

1. Use Dish Soap and Water

The simplest solution is often the best, and dish soap is specifically designed to break down grease and oils. To get that gasoline smell off your hands, run them under warm water and lather well with dish detergent, scrubbing thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to a minute. Be sure to pay special attention to areas that might be particularly affected, such as any creases in your skin or around your nails. Once you’ve given your hands a good scrub, rinse them well with warm water.

2. Lemon Juice

If you find that the scent lingers even after washing your hands with dish soap, lemon juice may be able to help since it’s a natural deodorizer. Simply squeeze some fresh lemon juice onto your hands and rub them together for at least 30 seconds before rinsing it off with warm water. The citric acid in the lemon juice will help break down the gasoline molecules while removing any remaining odor.

3. Vinegar Solution

White vinegar is another effective natural deodorizer and cleaner that can help rid your hands of that stubborn gasoline smell. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to create a simple solution for scrubbing your hands with a brush or sponge. The acetic acid in vinegar works well at breaking down gasoline residues and eliminating odors.

4. Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is well-known for its ability to neutralize odors, making it an excellent option for getting gasoline smells off your hands. Create a paste by combining three parts baking soda with one part water. Rub this mixture onto your hands for at least a minute before rinsing off under warm water. The mildly abrasive nature of baking soda can also help scrub away any remaining gasoline residue.

Persistence and experimentation may be key as you might need more than one method to remove the smell of gasoline completely. However, these four solutions should provide effective options for most situations. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after any exposure to gasoline, as it can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin over time.