How to Get Engine Oil Stains Out of Clothes
Engine oil stains are some of the most stubborn and frustrating spots you can find on clothing. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or just got a little too close to your car’s engine, those dark, greasy marks can seem impossible to remove. Fortunately, with the right approach and a bit of patience, you can significantly improve – and often completely remove – engine oil stains from your clothes.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle those tough stains and save your favorite garments from the trash bin.
Step 1: Act Quickly
Your chances of removing the stain improve with early treatment. Engine oil can quickly soak into fabric fibers, making it harder to remove over time. Treat the stain as soon as you see it, if at all possible.
Step 2: Blot (Don’t Rub!)
Use a paper towel, old cloth, or even a piece of cardboard to blot up as much of the oil as possible. Press gently to absorb the oil without rubbing it deeper into the fabric. Rubbing at this stage can actually spread the stain and damage the fibers.
Step 3: Apply an Absorbent (Optional but Helpful)
Before applying any cleaning agents, it helps to draw out excess oil using absorbent powders. Directly sprinkle the stain with cornstarch, baking soda, or baby powder, then leave it for 15 to 30 minutes. These powders will absorb some of the oil, making the stain easier to treat later. Afterward, gently brush off the powder.
Step 4: Pre-Treat the Stain
Next, apply a stain-fighting liquid detergent, dish soap (such as Dawn), or a degreaser directly to the stained area. Dish soaps designed to cut through grease work especially well. Using your fingers, a soft brush, or an old toothbrush, gently rub the cleaning into the fabric. Give it ten to fifteen minutes to sit.
If you’re dealing with a really stubborn stain, you can also use a laundry stain remover or a commercial product like Goo Gone or Simple Green. Just make sure to test any strong chemicals on a hidden area of the fabric first to ensure they don’t cause damage or discoloration.
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Step 5: Wash in Hot Water (If Safe)
Check the care label on your clothing. Wash the item in the hottest water suitable for the cloth, if it permits. The oil is broken down and dissolved with the use of hot water. To guarantee complete cleaning, use high-quality laundry detergent and keep the washing machine from being overloaded.
Advice: If the item of clothing is white or color-safe, a small amount of oxygen bleach—not chlorine bleach—can be added to the washing to assist get rid of any remaining oil residue.
Step 6: Air Dry Only
This is critical: Do not put the clothing in the dryer until you’re sure the stain is gone. The oil stain may get permanently fixed by the dryer’s heat, making subsequent removal extremely challenging or perhaps impossible. Instead, air dry the clothing and inspect the area. Before drying, repeat the procedure if any stain is still present.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- If need, repeat: Multiple treatments are necessary for certain oil stains. Don’t get discouraged if the stain doesn’t disappear after the first wash.
- Try WD-40: For older, set-in stains, a surprising trick is to spray a little WD-40 on the spot. Let it sit for a few minutes, then treat with dish soap and wash. (Once more, start by testing this in a discrete location.)
- Use laundry boosters: Enzyme-based laundry boosters or degreasers can significantly enhance cleaning power.
- Dry cleaning: For delicate fabrics like silk or wool, take the stained item to a professional cleaner and point out the oil spot.
Conclusion
Getting engine oil out of clothes doesn’t have to mean throwing away your favorite t-shirt or work pants. With the right steps—absorbing, treating, washing carefully, and avoiding the dryer—you can often erase even the toughest stains. The key is acting fast, using the right products, and being persistent.
With a little know-how and elbow grease, you can win the battle against engine oil stains and keep your clothes looking their best.