How to Get Rid of Oil Stains on Clothes: Simple & Effective Methods
Oil stains are one of the most frustrating laundry problems. Whether it’s cooking oil splashing onto your shirt, motor oil from working on the car, or even greasy takeaway food, oil has a way of clinging to fabric and leaving ugly marks. The good news is that with the right methods, you can remove oil stains at home without damaging your clothes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods on how to get rid of oil stains on clothes—from fresh spills to older, set-in stains.
Why Oil Stains Are So Tough to Remove
Unlike water-based stains, oil doesn’t dissolve in water. Instead, it seeps into the fibres of the fabric and binds tightly. That’s why simply tossing your shirt into the washing machine often doesn’t work—without pretreatment, the stain usually comes back.
The trick is to break down and absorb the oil first, then wash it out properly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Fresh Oil Stains
Fresh stains are the easiest to treat. Here’s what you should do immediately:
Blot the Excess Oil
Use a clean paper towel or cloth to gently blot (not rub) the oil. This helps soak up as much as possible.
Sprinkle Absorbent Powder
Cover the stain with baking soda, cornstarch, baby powder, or even chalk.
Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes to draw out the oil.
Brush Away the Powder
Shake or gently brush off the powder before moving to the next step.
Apply Dishwashing Liquid
Rub a few drops of liquid dish soap (like the kind you’d use to cut grease on dishes) into the stain.
Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush.
Wash in Hot Water (if safe)
Wash the garment in the hottest water safe for that fabric type (check the care label).
Air dry only—heat from a dryer can “set” any leftover stain.
How to Remove Old or Set-In Oil Stains
If the oil stain has already dried or gone through the dryer, don’t worry—it’s still possible to treat it:
Re-apply Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent
Apply directly onto the stained area and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Use Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste.
Spread it on the stain and leave it for 1–2 hours before washing.
Try a Stain Remover Spray
For stubborn marks, use a commercial stain remover designed for grease and oil.
Wash & Air Dry
Wash as normal, but always let the garment air dry until you’re sure the stain is gone.
Natural Remedies for Oil Stains
If you prefer eco-friendly methods, here are some natural stain removers:
White Vinegar – Mix equal parts vinegar and water, dab onto the stain, then wash.
Lemon Juice + Baking Soda – Great for lighter fabrics, this combo helps break down grease while brightening the fabric.
Eucalyptus Oil – A few drops can help lift oily residues before washing.
What Not to Do
Don’t rub fresh stains aggressively—it pushes the oil deeper into the fibres.
Avoid using hot water immediately on fresh stains—it can lock the oil in.
Never put stained clothes in the dryer until you’re certain the stain is gone.
Final Thoughts
Oil stains can be stubborn, but with the right approach, you can save your clothes instead of throwing them away. The key is to act quickly, absorb the oil, and use a grease-cutting solution like dish soap or baking soda.
If you’ve got a particularly tricky stain or delicate fabric, you might want to take it to a professional cleaner to avoid damage.
