How to Clean Grease Stains

What You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Old toothbrush
• Hot water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Blot up excess grease

   If the stain is fresh, blot up excess grease with a paper towel. Do not rub -- rubbing pushes grease deeper into the fabric.

2. 2

   Apply baking soda or cornstarch

   Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain to absorb the oil. Let sit for 15-30 minutes, then brush off.

3. 3

   Apply dish soap directly

   Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain. Dish soap is formulated to break down grease.

4. 4

   Scrub with a toothbrush

   Scrub the stain gently with an old toothbrush. Work the soap into the fabric.

5. 5

   Wash in hot water

   Wash the garment in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Check before drying -- heat sets stains. Repeat if needed.

Pro Tips

• TIPDish soap is the best grease stain remover -- it's formulated specifically for grease.
• TIPTreat grease stains immediately. Old grease stains are much harder to remove.
• TIPAlways check the stain is gone before drying. The dryer permanently sets stains that remain.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XDrying clothes with grease stains still on them, which sets the stain permanently.
• XUsing cold water, which solidifies grease and makes it harder to remove.
• XRubbing the fabric, which pushes grease deeper into the fibers.

Frequently Asked Questions