Dealing with oil and grease stains on your clothes can be frustrating, especially if you’re a mechanic or someone who frequently works with engines. But don’t worry, getting rid of these stains is easier than you think. Here are eight simple tips to help you get oil out of clothes.
- Use Cornstarch to Absorb the Oil
Cornstarch is a household staple that can be used to absorb oil and grease from clothing. To use this method, lay your garment flat on a table and sprinkle cornstarch over the stain. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes or more, then brush off the cornstarch with a damp sponge or toothbrush. Wash the clothes by hand or in a washing machine in cold water, then hang them out to dry in the sun.
- Apply Aloe Vera Gel to the Stain
Aloe vera gel is an effective grease stain remover. Soak the garment in hot water for 15 minutes, then scrub the aloe vera gel onto the stained area. Wash the clothes in warm water and hang them out to dry in the sun.
- Use Baking Soda to Clean the Stain
Baking soda is another household item that can be used to remove oil and grease stains. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes or so. Then, brush off the baking soda with a damp sponge or toothbrush and wash the garment in hot water. If the stain is still visible, repeat the process.
- Use WD-40 to Remove Stubborn Stains
WD-40 is a multi-purpose cleaner that can be used to remove stubborn oil and grease stains. Spread the garment on a table and apply one teaspoon of WD-40 to the stain. Allow it to soak in for 15 minutes or more, then apply liquid soap to the affected area and wash the clothes in warm or cold water.
- Use Shampoo to Remove Engine Oil and Grease
The surfactant molecules in shampoo make it an effective stain remover for soft fabrics. Lay the garment on a table and rub the shampoo onto the stain using a sponge or your fingers. Allow it to sit for 25 minutes or more, then rinse and wash the clothes in a washing machine.
- Use Nail Polish Remover to Remove Engine Oil and Grease Stains
Nail polish remover contains acetone, which is an excellent organic solvent that can remove engine oil and grease stains. Test the nail polish remover on an inconspicuous area first, then apply it to the stain and rinse after 15 minutes. Repeat the process several times, then throw the clothes into a washing machine.
- Presoak the Clothes in Hot Water and Detergent
Presoaking is an easy and inexpensive way to remove oil and grease stains from clothing. Soak the garment in hot water and a sachet of 30kg detergent for at least one hour, then rewash the clothes and presoak with warm water and detergent. Wash the clothes after 15 minutes and hang them out to dry.
- Use OxiClean Max Force Gel Stick
OxiClean Max Force Gel Stick is a concentrated formula that can fight the most stubborn dried-in stains and wash them away, leaving no stain behind. Test the gel stick in an inconspicuous area first, then pour a small amount of gel stick on the stain and gently scrub it using a laundress stain brush. Allow the gel to pretreat for 15 minutes or more before washing in the hottest water the clothes can carry.
Final Thoughts
Getting oil and grease stains out of clothes can be a challenge, but with these eight simple tips, you can keep your workwear looking clean and professional. Remember to always presoak the stained clothes in hot water and detergent for optimum results. If all else fails, try using an Oxiclean Max gel stick to remove the most stubborn stains.
