How to remove oil stains from clothes

Have you ever been excited to wear your favorite shirt, only to notice a dark, glaring oil stain that seems impossible to remove? Maybe you’ve just finished a delicious meal, but the grease marks left on your clothes tell a different story. For many of us, dealing with unexpected stains can feel like a daunting task, especially when we’re not sure where to start. Fortunately, removing oil stains from clothes isn’t as challenging as it seems if you know a few handy tricks.

To remove oil stains from clothes, start by blotting the stain with a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Then sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and brush off the powder. Next, apply a mix of dish soap and warm water directly on the stain, gently rubbing it in. Finally, rinse and wash the garment in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

To elaborate, the first step in treating an oil stain is to act quickly; the longer you wait, the more difficult it can be to remove. Blotting the stain with a paper towel or cloth helps to soak up any excess oil without rubbing it in further. After blotting, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch on the stain, as these absorbent powders will draw out the oil. Let it sit for about 15 to 30 minutes, then gently brush off the powder, which should now have taken in some of the grease.

Next, mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, as dish soap is designed specifically to break down grease. Apply this mixture directly to the stained area and use your fingers or a soft brush to work it gently into the fabric. It’s important to be cautious and not scrub too hard, as this can damage the fibers of your clothing. After allowing the soap to penetrate the fabric for about five to ten minutes, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

Finally, wash the garment according to its care instructions, using the hottest water level that is safe for the fabric. Before drying, check the stain: if it’s still visible, repeat the process before placing it in the dryer, as heat can set the stain permanently. With these steps, your clothes will be looking fresh and clean in no time!