To get grease out of clothing, follow these key steps:
- Blot the excess grease gently with a paper towel or dry cloth to absorb as much as possible.
- Apply liquid dishwashing soap directly onto the grease stain and rub it gently, as dish soap is designed to break down grease.
- Rinse the treated area thoroughly with warm water to remove the dish soap.
- Rub liquid laundry detergent onto the stain before washing.
- Wash the clothing in the hottest water temperature safe for the fabric, as indicated on the care label.
- Air dry the clothing instead of using a dryer, since heat from the dryer can set any remaining grease stains.
For tougher stains, powders like baking soda, cornstarch, or flour can be sprinkled on the stain to absorb grease before washing. These powders should be allowed to sit on the stain for up to an hour and then brushed or shaken off. The process of spotting with soap and detergent can be repeated if necessary. Avoid using a tumble dryer until the stain is fully removed to prevent setting the stain permanently.
This method works because grease is a lipid and does not dissolve in water alone, but dish soap and detergents have grease-dissolving properties that help lift the stain from fabric fibers.
In summary, the combination of blotting, dish soap pretreatment, detergent wash, and air drying is the most effective way to remove grease from clothing.
