In this article, we will show you how to get oil out of clothes using effective methods like dish soap, baking soda, and more.

Accidents happen, and sometimes, those accidents involve oil stains on your favorite shirt or pants.

Whether you’re cooking dinner, working on your car, or simply enjoying a meal, oil stains can appear out of nowhere, and they can seem impossible to remove.

But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get oil out of clothes using simple, effective methods that are both budget-friendly and easy to apply.

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Why Oil Stains Are So Hard to Remove

Oil stains can be tricky because they don’t simply wash away with water. Unlike water-based stains (like coffee or juice), oil doesn’t dissolve in water, which means it can cling to fabric fibers more stubbornly.

The longer an oil stain sits, the harder it can be to remove. The key to removing oil stains is acting quickly and using the right methods to break down the oil.

How to Get Oil Out of Clothes

There are several tried-and-true methods for getting oil out of clothes. Here are some of the most effective ways to tackle those greasy marks:

1. Dish Soap and Warm Water: The Classic Approach

Dish soap is designed to break down grease and oil, making it one of the best ways to remove oil stains from clothes. Here’s what you need to do:

Steps:

• Blot the stain gently with a paper towel or cloth to remove any excess oil.

• Apply a small amount of dish soap directly onto the stain.

• Use a soft brush or your fingers to work the soap into the fabric.

• Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes to allow the soap to break down the oil.

• Rinse the fabric with warm water and then wash as usual.

Why It Works: Dish soap contains degreasing agents that target the oil particles, helping to lift the stain from the fabric.

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2. Baking Soda: A Natural Oil Absorber

Baking soda is a natural stain fighter that’s gentle on fabric while being tough on oil stains. It helps absorb oil from the fabric and can be used alone or as a pre-treatment for tougher stains.

Steps:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly onto the oil stain.

• Let it sit for about 15–20 minutes. You’ll notice that the baking soda absorbs the oil.

• Gently brush off the baking soda and check if the stain is gone. If not, repeat the process.

• Once the stain is removed, wash the item as you normally would.

Why It Works: Baking soda absorbs the oil and lifts it from the fabric, making it easier to wash away.

3. Cornstarch: Another Natural Absorbent

Similar to baking soda, cornstarch is another great natural product that can absorb oil. It’s perfect for treating fresh stains before they set in.

Steps:

• Sprinkle cornstarch over the oil stain, ensuring it’s covered.

• Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the oil.

• Brush off the cornstarch and inspect the stain. If needed, repeat the process.

• Once the stain is gone, wash the clothing as usual.

Why It Works: Cornstarch acts as an absorbent, drawing the oil out of the fabric fibers.

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4. Baby Powder: A Gentle Solution for Delicate Fabrics

Baby powder is another option for absorbing oil stains, especially if you’re dealing with more delicate fabrics. It’s gentle on your clothes and effective in lifting the oil.

Steps:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baby powder onto the oil stain.

• Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes.

• Gently brush off the powder and check the stain. If necessary, repeat the process.

• Wash the fabric in the warmest water recommended for the fabric.

Why It Works: Baby powder works similarly to cornstarch and baking soda by absorbing excess oil.

5. Rubbing Alcohol: For Stubborn Oil Stains

If the oil stain is more stubborn, rubbing alcohol can help break it down. This method works best for older stains or thicker fabrics.

Steps:

• Dab a cotton ball or cloth in rubbing alcohol.

• Gently blot the stain with the rubbing alcohol to break down the oil.

• Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse the fabric.

• Wash the item in hot water (according to the fabric’s care instructions).

Why It Works: Rubbing alcohol dissolves oil and grease, making it easier to wash out of your clothes.

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Pro Tips for Stubborn Oil Stains

If the oil stain persists after your initial attempts, here are a few additional tips:

• Use a Stain Remover: Pre-treat the stain with a stain remover before washing. Some stain removers are specifically formulated to tackle grease and oil.

• Check Before Drying: Always check the stained area before drying your clothes. The heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently. If the stain remains, repeat the treatment before drying.

• Use Hot Water: If the fabric allows, washing the clothes in the hottest water safe for the fabric will help break down the oil more effectively.

How to Prevent Oil Stains in the Future

While oil stains are inevitable, there are steps you can take to prevent them from happening as frequently:

• Wear Protective Clothing: When cooking or working with oil, wear an apron or older clothes that you don’t mind getting stained.

• Act Fast: The quicker you treat an oil stain, the easier it will be to remove. Don’t wait too long before treating the stain.

• Pre-treat Clothing: Before washing your clothes, apply a stain remover to any areas that have been exposed to oil.

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Conclusion

Removing oil stains from clothes doesn’t have to be a stressful task. With the right approach, you can effectively get rid of those stubborn stains without damaging your clothes. Whether you choose dish soap, baking soda, or rubbing alcohol, these methods are easy, cost-effective, and gentle on your fabrics. So, the next time you find yourself with an oil stain, don’t panic—just follow these steps and watch that stain disappear!

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