How to remove oil stains from clothing

That moment of horror. A splash of olive oil from dinner, a drip of dressing from your lunch salad, or a smudge of grease from the car—right on your favorite shirt.

We’ve all been there. And if you’ve ever tossed a garment in despair, thinking the stain is permanent, we have good news for you: it doesn’t have to be!

Oil stains are notorious, but they are no match for the right techniques. The secret lies in acting fast and using the right household heroes.

Your First Line of Defense: Act Fast!

1. Blot, Don’t Rub! Immediately use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up as much oil as possible. Rubbing will only spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibers.
2. Cover with Talc. Sprinkle the stain generously with cornstarch, baby powder, or chalk. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the oil, then brush it off.

The Magic Potions: Choose Your Weapon

For a fresh stain, one of these simple methods will likely do the trick:

• The Dish Soap Method: Dish soap is designed to cut through grease! Apply a small drop of a clear, degreasing dish soap (like Dawn) directly to the stain. Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wash as usual in the warmest water safe for the fabric.
• The Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it dry completely, then brush it off and launder the garment.

For Set-In Stains: Time to Level Up

Is the stain already old? Don’t lose hope.

• The Heavy-Duty Solvent: Pre-treating sprays and sticks (like Shout or Tide to Go) are formulated to break down tough, set-in stains. Apply, let it sit, and then wash.
• The Vinegar Boost: For persistent stains, try a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. Spray it on, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rub with dish soap and wash.

The Golden Rule: Always Check Before You Tumble!

Before you even think about putting the item in the dryer, make sure the stain is completely gone. The heat from a dryer will set any remaining oil, making it nearly impossible to remove later. Air-dry the garment first to be safe.

Ready to Rescue Your Wardrobe?

Stop letting a little oil ruin your favorite clothes. With these simple steps, you can face any greasy challenge with confidence.

Save this guide, share it with a friend, and never fear a salad again!