Grease stains on clothes are a nuisance that everyone has encountered. You have spilled oil, sauce or cosmetics on yourself, and there it is, a grease stain that is difficult to remove. But don’t despair! There are many ways that will help you deal with this problem. In this guide, I’ll talk about proven methods, share expert advice, and give you some real-life examples.
Why are grease stains so difficult to remove?
Grease stains have a special ability to penetrate deep into the fabric fibers. Normal washing often does not help, as grease repels water and detergents. However, by knowing the right techniques and products, even the most stubborn stains can be removed effectively.
Step 1: First aid in case of fresh stains
If you have just planted a grease stain, act quickly. The longer the stain remains on the fabric, the more difficult it will be to remove.
- Blot the stain. Use a paper towel or napkin to blot excess grease. Do not rub to avoid spreading the stain.
- Sprinkle the stain with an absorbent. Apply baby powder, starch or talcum powder to the stain. These will absorb the grease.
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Give the absorbent time to absorb the grease.
- Shake off the excess. Gently shake or brush off the powder.
Case in point: “When I was working as a waitress, I accidentally spilled olive oil on my white blouse. I immediately poured starch on it, and after 10 minutes I just brushed it off. The stain was much less noticeable, and after washing it, it was completely gone.
Step 2: Treat grease stains on clothing before washing
Now that you have removed the excess grease, you need to prepare the fabric for washing.
- Use dishwashing liquid. Apply a small amount to the stain and rub in with a soft brush or your fingers. Dishwashing liquid is excellent at breaking down grease.
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes. Allow the product to work.
- Rinse with warm water. Rinse the treated area thoroughly.
Products for treating grease stains on clothes
| Means | Method of application | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwashing liquid | Apply to stain, rub in, rinse off | Effective against fresh stains |
| Soda | Apply a paste of baking soda and water | Helps on old stains |
| Alcohol | Blot the stain with moistened absorbent cotton | Suitable for delicate fabrics |
| Acetone | Apply to a cotton pad, blot dry | Do not use on synthetic fabrics |
Step 3: Washing
- Choose the right detergent. For greasy stains, use a special stain remover such as Vanish, Amway or Dr. Beckmann.
- Wash at a high temperature. If the fabric allows, select the maximum temperature allowed.
- Check the result. Make sure that the stain is completely gone before drying. High drying temperatures can permanently fix the stain.
List of additional events:
- Do not use hot water immediately unless you have treated the stain first. This may make the stain permanent.
- Check the labels on your clothes. Some fabrics require special care.
- To avoid staining, use a white cloth to blot stains.
Removing old oil stains from clothes:
- Apply a paste of baking soda and water to the stain.
- Leave for 30 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Treat with dishwashing liquid.
- Wash as usual.
Renowned chemist Jane Smith notes: “Grease stains are not a death sentence for your clothes. With the right products and techniques, you can get your items looking their best again.”
Step-by-step checklist for removing grease stains
- Blot the stain with an absorbent (starch, talc).
- Apply dishwashing liquid.
- Rub the product into the stain.
- Leave for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Wash using stain remover.
- Check the result before drying.
Removing grease stains from clothes requires attention and the right approach. Remember that each case is unique and it is best to test on an inconspicuous area of tissue. If you have your own proven methods, share them in the comments! Perhaps your experience will help others cope with this unpleasant problem.
