How to Clean Oil Stains on Clothes

What You'll Need

• Soap-Man Power Wash Laundry Detergent
• Dish soap
• Baking soda or cornstarch
• Old toothbrush
• Cardboard

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Absorb excess oil

   Blot fresh oil with a paper towel. Then cover the stain with baking soda or cornstarch and let it absorb for 30 minutes.

2. 2

   Brush off the powder

   Brush away the powder, which should have absorbed much of the oil. The stain should look lighter.

3. 3

   Apply dish soap

   Squirt dish soap (a strong degreaser) directly on the stain. Work it in with a toothbrush. Let it sit for 30 minutes.

4. 4

   Wash in warm water

   Wash with Power Wash Laundry Detergent on the warmest setting safe for the fabric. Check before drying.

Pro Tips

• TIPDish soap is the secret weapon for oil stains -- it's designed to cut grease. Use it as a pre-treatment even on old oil stains.
• TIPPlace cardboard inside the garment behind the stain to prevent oil from spreading to the back layer.
• TIPFor old, set oil stains, spray WD-40 on the stain (yes, oil to remove oil), then treat with dish soap.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XDrying the garment before the oil stain is fully removed, which sets the stain permanently.
• XUsing cold water only, which doesn't dissolve oil as effectively as warm water.
• XRubbing oil stains when fresh, which spreads the oil to a larger area.

Frequently Asked Questions