To get oil stains out of fabric, the key steps are acting quickly, blotting excess oil, pretreating with dish soap, and washing with a strong detergent. Here is a practical approach:
- Act fast and do not let the stain set or dry.
- Blot excess oil gently with a tissue or paper towel, avoiding rubbing to prevent spreading.
- Pretreat the stain by applying clear liquid dish soap (like Dawn) directly on the oil stain. You can gently rub it in or use a toothbrush to work it into the fabric.
- For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda over the dish soap to absorb the oil and let it sit for some time.
- Rinse with warm or hot water (based on the fabric care label).
- Wash the garment with an enzyme-based liquid detergent designed to break down oil stains.
- Check if the stain is gone before drying. Avoid using the dryer until the stain is fully removed as heat can set the stain permanently.
- Repeat the process if required.
This method works for common cooking oils, especially on fabrics like cotton and denim. For tougher stains like motor oil, repeated pretreatment and specialized detergents may be needed. In summary, quick blotting, dish soap pretreatment, baking soda for absorption, and washing with enzyme detergent are the best way to remove oil stains from fabric safely and effectively.
