How To Remove Oil Stains From Clothes (7 Methods)
Oil stains on clothes can be frustrating to deal with, especially when you’re in a rush. Whether it’s a grease stain from cooking or a drop of oil from your car, these stains can be stubborn and difficult to remove.
However, with the right tools and techniques, you can successfully remove oil stains from your clothes and restore them to their former glory. In this article, we’ll provide you with some helpful tips and tricks for removing oil stains from clothes, as well as 7 methods so you can save your favorite garments from being ruined.
Pre-Treatment
One of the first things you should do when you notice an oil stain on your clothes is to act fast. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove the stain.
Start by blotting the stain with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess oil. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread the oil and make the stain worse.
Once you’ve blotted the stain, you can apply a pre-treatment solution to help break down the oil. There are many different pre-treatment solutions available, including dish soap, laundry detergent, and vinegar. You can also use specialized stain removers that are designed specifically for oil stains.
Washing
After applying the pre-treatment solution, you can wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest setting recommended for the fabric. Be sure to check the care label on the garment before washing, as some fabrics may require special care. If the stain is still visible after washing, you can repeat the process or try using a stain-removing stick or pen for targeted treatment. With a little bit of patience and persistence, you can remove even the toughest oil stains from your clothes and keep them looking like new.
Method 1: Dish Soap and Hot Water
One of the easiest and most effective methods for removing oil stains from clothes is by using dish soap and hot water. Simply apply a small amount of dish soap directly onto the stain and then rub it in with your fingers. Next, soak the garment in hot water for about 30 minutes, and then wash it as you normally would. This method works best for fresh oil stains.
Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Another effective method for removing oil stains from clothes is by using baking soda and vinegar. First, sprinkle some baking soda onto the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, apply some vinegar onto the stain and let it sit for another 10 minutes. Finally, wash the garment as you normally would.
Method 3: Cornstarch
Cornstarch is another effective method for removing oil stains from clothes. Simply sprinkle some cornstarch onto the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The cornstarch will absorb the oil from the stain. Then, brush off the cornstarch and wash the garment as you normally would.
Method 4: WD-40
WD-40 is not only a great lubricant, but it can also be used to remove oil stains from clothes. Simply spray some WD-40 onto the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, wash the garment as you normally would.
Method 5: Lestoil
Lestoil is a heavy-duty cleaner that can be used to remove oil stains from clothes. Simply apply a small amount of Lestoil onto the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, wash the garment as you normally would.
Method 6: Shampoo
Believe it or not, shampoo is another effective method for removing oil stains from clothes. Simply apply a small amount of shampoo onto the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, wash the garment as you normally would.
Method 7: Ammonia
Ammonia is another heavy-duty cleaner that can be used to remove oil stains from clothes. Simply mix equal parts of ammonia and water, and then apply the mixture to the stain. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, and then wash the garment as you normally would.
Prevention
Firstly, it is important to be mindful of what you are wearing when cooking or eating greasy foods. Wearing an apron or a designated cooking garment can help protect your clothes from unintentional spills and splatters. Additionally, avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing or clothing with wide sleeves when cooking, as these can easily come into contact with oily surfaces.
Another way to prevent oil stains is to apply a stain repellent to your clothing before wearing them. Many fabric protectors can be found at your local department store or online. These products work by creating a barrier between the fabric and the oil, preventing it from penetrating the fibers.
If you do happen to get oil on your clothing, it is important to act quickly. Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel as soon as possible to absorb as much of the oil as you can. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can cause it to spread and set in further.
Once you have blotted the stain, apply a pre-treatment stain remover to the affected area. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before washing the garment in the hottest water recommended on the care label.
In addition to these preventative measures, it is important to properly care for your clothing to prevent oil stains from setting in. Avoid drying clothing with stains in the dryer, as the heat can cause the stain to set. Instead, hang the garment to dry or air dry it.
Preventing oil stains on clothes requires a combination of preventative measures and proper care. By being mindful of what you wear when cooking, applying a stain repellent, and acting quickly when a stain does occur, you can keep your clothes looking their best. There are several different methods you can use to remove oil stains from clothes. From using dish soap and hot water to using ammonia, each method has its own unique benefits. So, the next time you find yourself with an oil stain on your favorite shirt, try one of these 7 methods to remove it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I remove oil stains from clothes?
To remove oil stains from clothes, you can use dish soap or laundry detergent. First, apply the detergent directly onto the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, wash the garment in hot water with your normal laundry detergent.
Can baking soda remove oil stains from clothes?
Baking soda can help to absorb excess oil from a stain, but it may not be effective on its own. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing the garment as usual.
Will vinegar remove oil stains from clothes?
Vinegar can help to break down oil stains and remove them from clothing. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing the garment in hot water with your normal laundry detergent.
How do I get old oil stains out of clothes?
Old oil stains can be more difficult to remove, but it is still possible. Apply a heavy-duty laundry detergent directly onto the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight before washing the garment in hot water.
Can I use bleach to remove oil stains from clothes?
Bleach is not recommended for removing oil stains from clothes, as it can actually set the stain and make it more difficult to remove. Stick to using laundry detergent or dish soap instead.
What if the oil stain is still visible after washing the garment?
If the oil stain is still visible after washing the garment, do not put it in the dryer. Instead, repeat the stain removal process and wash the garment again. If the stain still won’t come out, take it to a professional cleaner.
How can I prevent oil stains from happening in the first place?
To prevent oil stains from happening, be careful when cooking or working with oily substances. Wear an apron to protect your clothing and try to avoid getting oil on your clothes in the first place. If you do get oil on your clothes, treat the stain as soon as possible.
Holly Antoine
