Got an oil stain on your favorite shirt? Don’t stress—it happens to all of us! Whether you just spilled some cooking oil or found an old grease stain that’s been hiding in plain sight, there’s a way to save your clothes. Let’s talk about how to get oil stains out of clothes, step by step.
Why Should You Get Oil Stains Out Of Clothes Quickly?
Oil stains are sneaky—they might not seem like a big deal at first, but once they set, they can be tough to remove. Oil seeps into the fabric and bonds with the fibers, making it tricky for water or regular detergent to wash them out. Tackling these stains as soon as possible makes all the difference.
Understanding Oil Stains
Before we jump into how to get oil stains out of clothes, let’s understand the problem:
- Common culprits: Cooking oil, butter, salad dressing, motor oil, or even natural body oils.
- Why so stubborn? Oil is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. Regular washing alone often can’t handle it.
What You’ll Need to Get Oil Stains Out Of Clothes?
To start off on the right foot, gather these simple items:
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
- Enzyme Based Detergent
- A good stain remover (likeWD-40)
- Clean cloths or paper towels
- Warm water
Having these tools ready makes the process smoother, especially for fresh stains where timing is everything.
How To Get Oil Stains Out Of Clothes That Are Fresh?
Dealing with a fresh spill? Here’s your game plan:
- Blot the stain ASAP: First and foremost, grab a clean cloth or paper towel and gently blot (don’t rub!) the area. This helps soak up the excess oil.
- Apply dish soap: Next, apply dish soap directly onto the stain. Let it sit for about 15 minutes so it can start breaking down the grease.
- Check the care label: At this point, it’s crucial to check the garment’s washing instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Gently rub the fabric: Then, lightly rub the stained area together. This friction helps loosen the oil from the fabric fibers.
- Wash with enzyme-based detergent: Follow up by washing the garment with an enzyme-based liquid detergent, which works wonders on tough stains. Use warm water for the best results but check how much your clothes can bear it.
- Inspect before drying: Finally, inspect the garment before tossing it in the dryer. If the stain isn’t completely gone, repeat the steps to prevent setting the oil stain permanently.
Steps to Remove Old Oil Stains
If the stain has been there for a while, it’ll take a little more effort, but don’t lose hope! Here’s how to get oil stains out of clothes that have been there on your clothes for a while:
- Start with cardboard: To begin, place a piece of cardboard under the stained area. This prevents the oil from transferring to the other side of the fabric or onto your work surface.
- Apply WD-40: Afterward, spray or dab a small amount of WD-40 onto the stain. This step helps loosen up the oil, even if it’s been sitting for a while.
- Add baking soda: Then, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the WD-40. Using an old toothbrush, scrub in small circular motions. Replace the clumpy baking soda with fresh powder until it looks clean.
- Apply liquid detergent: Once the baking soda has done its job, generously apply liquid laundry detergent or dish soap to the stain.
- Rinse and repeat if needed: Now, rinse the garment with warm water. If the stain remains, don’t hesitate to repeat the process until it’s gone.
- Air-dry only: As a final precaution, air-dry the garment instead of using a dryer. This ensures you don’t accidentally set any remaining oil residue.
Extra Tips To Get Oil Stains Out Of Clothes
Before you start treating our oil stains, keep the following important things in mind:
- Test first: Whenever you use a cleaning solution, always try it on a small, hidden area of the fabric to avoid discoloration.
- Don’t use hot water on old stains: Believe it or not, hot water can actually set the oil deeper into the fibers, making removal even harder.
- Choose the right detergent: Opt for enzyme-based detergents specifically designed to break down oils and grease
- Layer baking soda on old stains: For older, set-in stains, don’t hesitate to reapply baking soda multiple times to fully absorb the oil.
- Blot instead of rub: Always blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid spreading the oil further into the fabric.
- Avoid using the dryer too soon: Make sure the stain is completely gone before putting your clothes in the dryer. The heat can set any remaining oil, making it permanent.
- Read care labels carefully: Different fabrics need different treatments. Always follow the garment’s washing instructions to avoid damage.
- Avoid soaking delicate fabrics too long: While soaking can help, leaving delicate fabrics in cleaning solutions for extended periods might weaken or discolor them.
- Store a stain remover pen in your bag: For emergencies, having a stain remover pen handy can be a lifesaver for tackling oil spills right away.
These extra tips will give you a better chance at tackling even the toughest oil stains and keeping your clothes in great shape!
In Conclusion
Oil stains don’t have to mean the end of your favorite clothes. Once you have learned “how to get oil stains out of clothes, things become easy. With the right tools and a little patience, you can tackle even the trickiest grease spots. Whether it’s a fresh stain or one that’s been around for weeks, the steps we’ve covered will help you restore your garments. So next time an oil stain strikes, don’t worry—you’ve got this!
FAQ
Can vinegar help with oil stains?
Vinegar can assist in breaking down the oil. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, apply to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.
What about using commercial stain removers? Are they effective?
Yes, many commercial stain removers are formulated specifically for grease and oil stains. Follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
Should I dry the stained clothing after washing?
No, avoid drying until you’re sure the stain is gone. Heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently. Air dry instead to check if the stain remains.
