Whether you’re dealing with a small spot or a large stain, removing oil stains from clothing can be tricky. But with the right method, you can get your clothes looking good as new in no time.
One of the best methods for removing oil stains is to use a product that contains enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that break down other molecules, and they’re found in many household cleaners. Look for a cleaner that’s specifically designed to remove oil stains, and follow the instructions on the label.
To know more ways on how to remove oil stains from your clothes, read on below and we might have the answers for you.
Before you start cleaning
Here are a few things to know..
Removing hard stains such as those from oil, can be a challenge and you would want to take extra care not to cause any damage to your clothing. In some cases, the oils can actually penetrate the fabric and cause the colours to bleed. If this happens, it is best to seek professional help as home remedies might not work in this instance.
Here are the steps you can do when removing oil stains:
Act immediately
Read the tag on your garment
Some garments are very specific about the type of cleaners that can be used. Following the instructions on the tag will help you clean your clothing without causing any damage.
Don't put oil-stained garments in the dryer
Don't rub the stain
Apply a pre-treatment product
There are many products available that can help break down the oil and make it easier to remove. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.
Wash in the hottest water recommended on the care label
If the stain is still present after washing, repeat the process until the stain is gone. You may need to use a stronger cleaner or increase the amount of time the garment is soaked.
Types of Oil-Based Stains
Cooking oils
Sometimes when we get too busy cooking, we accidentally spill some oil on our clothing. Cooking oils include vegetable oil, olive oil, and canola oil.
Motor oils
If you work on cars or do any type of mechanical work, it’s likely that you’ll get motor oil on your clothes at some point. Motor oils include engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid.
Cosmetics
Many cosmetics contain oils that can stain clothing. This includes makeup, lotions, hair products, and perfume.
How to remove oil stains from clothes
Before you remove oil stains from your clothes, you will need the following things:
Cleaning product containing enzymes (look for a cleaner specifically designed to remove oil stains)
- White vinegar
- Liquid dish soap
- Baking soda
- Cornstarch
- Absorbent cloth
- Old toothbrush
Method #1: Remove oil stains with dish soap
Dish soap is known to be effective in removing various types of stains, and oil stains are no exception.
For this method, you will need: dish soap, and a clean cloth
- Apply dish soap directly to the oil stain, using a clean cloth.
- Rub the dish soap into the stain using a circular motion.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Method #2: Remove oil stains with baking soda
Baking soda is a common household item that can be used for many purposes, including cleaning.
For this method, you will need: Baking soda, clean cloth, and water
- Make a paste with baking soda and water.
- Apply the paste to the oil stain using a clean cloth.
- Rub the paste into the stain using a circular motion.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-4 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Method #3: Remove oil stains with chalk
Chalk contains a substance called calcium carbonate, which is known for its absorbent properties.
For this method, you will need: Chalk, and a clean cloth
- Apply chalk directly to the oil stain, using a clean cloth.
- Rub the chalk into the stain using a circular motion.
- Leave the chalk on the stain for 30 minutes to allow it to absorb the oil.
- Brush off the chalk with an old toothbrush.
- Repeat steps 1-4 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Method #4: Remove oil stains with baking soda and vinegar
Aside from baking soda alone, another effective method is to use baking soda and vinegar.
For this method, you will need: Baking soda, white vinegar, clean cloth and a water
- Make a paste with baking soda and water.
- Apply the paste to the oil stain using a clean cloth.
- Rub the paste into the stain using a circular motion.
- Rinse the area with white vinegar.
- Repeat steps 1-4 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Method #5: Remove with detergent
Detergent has always been used as a go-to solution for removing various types of stains.
For this method, you will need: Detergent, a clean cloth, and water
- With the wet and stained cloth, apply a small amount of detergent directly to the affected area.
- Rub the detergent into the stain using a circular motion.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-3 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Does WD-40 remove oil stains from clothes?
WD-40 is a product that can be used for a variety of purposes, including removing oil stains from clothes.
To use WD-40 to remove an oil stain, you will need: WD-40, old toothbrush, and a clean cloth
- Apply WD-40 directly to the oil stain using an old toothbrush.
- Rub the WD-40 into the stain using a circular motion.
- Allow the WD-40 to sit on the stain for 5 minutes.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat steps 1-4 until the stain is gone.
- Launder the garment as usual.
Remove Those Oil Stains Effectively With No Hassle!
The methods we shown you are all effective in removing oil stains. But with different kinds of fabrics, some methods work better than others. So, feel free to experiment and see which one works best for you!
At Green Oaks Cleaners, we have the best team of professionals who are experts in stain removal in Missouri City, and Pearland, Texas. We also use state-of-the-art equipment to clean your clothes and remove any type of stain. So, if you need help in removing tough stains, contact us today!
