Oil stains are one of the most stubborn problems in laundry. Whether it’s cooking oil, motor grease, or salad dressing, learning how to remove oil stains from clothes can save your favorite shirt from the trash. In this detailed guide, you’ll discover multiple easy and effective ways to get rid of oil stains using common household items.
🔹 Why You Need to Act Fast with Oil Stains
Oil quickly seeps into fabric fibers. The longer it stays, the harder it becomes to remove oil stains from clothes. That’s why early action is key.
🔹 Method 1: Dish Soap and Baking Soda – The Classic Duo
This is the most effective way to remove oil stains from clothes at home.
What You Need:
- Grease-fighting dish soap (like Dawn)
- Baking soda
- A toothbrush or soft brush
Steps:
- Lay the fabric flat and blot the excess oil with a paper towel.
- Apply a few drops of dish soap directly on the stain.
- Sprinkle baking soda on top.
- Gently scrub with a toothbrush.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Wash normally in the washing machine.
✅ This method works best on fresh oil stains.
🔹 Method 2: Cornstarch or Baby Powder for Delicate Fabrics
If you’re trying to remove oil stains from silk or wool clothes, skip the scrubbing.
Instructions:
- Sprinkle cornstarch generously over the stain.
- Let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
- Gently shake or brush off the powder.
- Repeat if needed, then wash.
👕 Method 3: Shampoo for Body Oil Stains
Shampoo, especially clarifying types, can break down body oils and sweat-based stains.
- Dab a small amount of shampoo on the collar or armpit stain.
- Rub gently with your fingers.
- Rinse and launder normally.
🌿 Method 4: Natural Ways to Remove Oil Stains from Clothes
Looking for chemical-free options? Try these:
- White vinegar: Effective for synthetic clothes
- Lemon juice + salt: Best for light-colored fabrics
- Aloe vera gel: Great for spot-cleaning soft fabrics
These methods are gentle and eco-friendly.
🚫 What Not to Do
- Don’t put stained clothes in the dryer until the stain is fully gone — heat will set it permanently.
- Avoid using bleach on oil stains — it can react badly with grease and damage fabric color.
🔗 Further Reading
Want more expert tips? Check out:
👉 Good Housekeeping – Remove Grease Stains
👉 Mayo Clinic – Fabric Care Tips
🔹 Conclusion: Save Your Clothes Like a Pro
If you want to remove oil stains from clothes effectively, act fast, choose the right method for the fabric, and don’t be afraid to repeat the process. With just a little effort and the right supplies, you can bring your clothes back to life — no dry cleaner needed!
