Oil stains on clothes are a very common and frustrating experience. Whether it’s cooking oil, motor oil, or oily food, these stains can make clothes look dirty and worn. But with the right methods, you can easily clean your clothes. In this blog, we’ll explain why oil stains occur, common mistakes, and step-by-step instructions on how to remove them.
How do you remove an oil stain from Clothes
Oil stains are hydrophobic (water-repellent). When oil is spilled on clothing, it soaks into the fabric fibers and adheres firmly. Removing it with water alone is difficult. These stains don’t go away easily, and cleaning them becomes difficult. Some such questions include how to remove oil stains from a shirt, how to remove oil stains from clothing, or colored fabrics. We’re here to answer some stain removal methods. Therefore, oil removal requires products and solutions that can break down the oil, such as dishwashing liquid, baking soda, or cornflour.
Methods to Remove Oil Stains
Here are several effective methods and also remove oil from clothes home remedies, you can try depending on the type of oil and fabric.
1. Dishwashing Liquid Method
Dishwashing liquid is designed to cut through grease, making it perfect for oil stains.
Steps:
- Place the stained area on a towel or plate.
- Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid directly on the stain.
- Gently rub it with your fingers or a soft brush.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and check the stain.
- Wash the clothing in the washing machine as usual.
Repeat if necessary before drying.
2. Baking Soda or Cornstarch Method
Both baking soda and cornstarch absorb oil effectively.
Steps:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch on the oil stain.
- Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes to absorb the oil.
- Brush off the powder gently.
- Apply liquid dish soap on any remaining stain and gently rub.
- Rinse with cold water and wash normally.
This method works best on fresh oil stains.
3. Baby Powder or Talcum Powder Method
Similar to baking soda, talcum powder can absorb grease without damaging delicate fabrics.
Steps:
- Sprinkle baby powder or talcum powder on the stain.
- Let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
- Shake or brush off the powder.
- Wash with mild detergent and cold water.
This method is gentle and ideal for silk, chiffon, or delicate fabrics.
4. Shampoo Method for Hair Oil Stains
Hair oils can be sticky and leave a noticeable mark. Shampoo works because it’s designed to break down oils.
Steps:
- Apply a small amount of anti-residue or mild shampoo to the stained area.
- Rub gently and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water.
- Wash normally with detergent.
This method is gentle on hair-oil-stained clothes and prevents fabric damage.
5. Aloe Vera Gel Method
Aloe vera contains natural cleansing properties and can work for light grease stains.
Steps:
- Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on the stain.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Gently rub and rinse with cold water.
- Wash the clothing as usual.
It’s especially useful for natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
6. Using Commercial Stain Removers
There are several store-bought stain removers designed for grease and oil stains.
Tips:
- Always read the instructions carefully.
- Test on a small, hidden area first to ensure colorfastness.
- Apply directly on the stain, wait as directed, and wash normally.
Conclusion
Oil stains are common but not impossible to remove. With quick action and the right technique—or the right equipment—you can restore garments to their former glory. For professional-grade garment care machines that streamline stain removal, trust S.R. Sons Garments Equipment – leading commercial washing machine manufacturer. We’re here to support your laundry business with reliable, efficient, and advanced solutions.
Some important points are:
- Act quickly and don’t use hot water initially.
- Absorb as much oil as possible before washing.
- Be gentle on delicate fabrics.
- Never dry the clothes until the stain is gone.
With patience and proper care, even stubborn oil stains can be removed, keeping your wardrobe clean and fresh.
