Oil Stains on Clothes

How To Get Rid Of Oil Stains on Clothes

Oil stains on clothes can be a real nuisance, especially since they tend to cling stubbornly to the fabric. Whether you’ve accidentally spilled cooking oil while preparing a meal or gotten a grease spot from working on your car, these stains can seem impossible to remove. Fortunately, there are effective methods you can use to banish those pesky oil stains for good.

Materials You Will Need

• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• An old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
• Paper towels or a clean cloth
• Laundry detergent
• Warm water

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Blot the Stain:
   Start by blotting the oil stain with a paper towel or a clean cloth. Do not rub the stain as this can spread the oil and make the stain larger.
2. Apply Baking Soda:
   Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain. Baking soda is great for absorbing oils. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. For larger or more stubborn stains, you might want to leave the baking soda on for an hour or more.
3. Brush the Baking Soda:
   Using an old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the baking soda into the stain. You should see the baking soda clumping up as it absorbs the oil. Once this happens, brush off the clumps and apply a fresh layer of baking soda. Repeat this process until the baking soda no longer clumps.
4. Add Dish Soap:
   After removing as much oil as possible with baking soda, apply a few drops of dish soap directly onto the stain. Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it an effective tool for tackling oil stains. Gently rub the soap into the stain with your fingers or a toothbrush.
5. Rinse with Warm Water:
   Rinse the soapy area with warm water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
6. Launder the Garment:
   Wash the garment as usual using the hottest water temperature recommended for the fabric. Check the stained area before drying. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process. Drying the fabric with a stain still present can set the stain, making it even more difficult to remove.
7. Inspect and Repeat if Necessary:
   After washing, inspect the area. If the stain persists, repeat the process. Some oil stains may require multiple treatments, but persistence will pay off.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove oil stains from your clothes and keep them looking fresh and clean. For more detailed guides on removing different types of stains and other helpful tips, visit How to Get Rid Of.

Remember, the sooner you treat an oil stain, the better your chances of removing it completely. Happy cleaning!