Grease and oil stains sink into fabric and can survive a normal wash if you are not careful. Drawing the oil out with a little dish soap before washing gives you the best chance of removing it for good.
What you'll need
- Dish soap
- Baking soda or cornstarch
- Old toothbrush
- Paper towels
- Warm water
Step by step
- Blot up excess oilPress a paper towel onto the stain to lift any surface oil, without rubbing it in deeper. Slide a paper towel behind the fabric so oil cannot bleed to the other side.
- Absorb what remainsSprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to draw out more oil. Brush the powder off when it looks clumpy.
- Apply dish soapWork a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap directly into the stain with your fingers or an old toothbrush. Dish soap is made to break down oil, which makes it ideal here.
- Let it sitLeave the soap on the stain for several minutes so it can penetrate the fibers. For an older stain, give it longer.
- Rinse with warm waterFlush the area with warm water from the back of the fabric to push the oil out rather than through. Check whether the stain has faded before washing.
- Wash and air-dryLaunder in the warmest water the care label allows, then let the garment air-dry. Check the stain before putting it in the dryer, since heat can lock it in.
Handy tips
- Treat oil stains as soon as you can, since fresh ones lift out far more easily than set-in ones.
- Grease-fighting dish soap works better on oil than laundry detergent alone.
- Check the care label and use the hottest water the fabric can safely handle.
Heads up
- Do not put the garment in the dryer until the stain is gone, because the heat can set it permanently.
- Test any product on an inside seam of delicate or colored fabrics first.
FAQ
Can I remove an oil stain after it has been washed and dried?
It is harder but often still possible. Re-treat with dish soap, let it sit longer, and rewash. Older set stains may need a couple of attempts.
Why does dish soap work on oil stains?
Dish soap is formulated to cut through grease on dishes, so it breaks down the oil in fabric the same way, letting the wash rinse it out.
What about oil stains on delicate fabrics like silk?
Blot gently, use a mild soap, and test on a hidden area first. For fine or dry-clean-only garments, it is safest to take them to a professional cleaner.