Grease and oil stains are some of the toughest to remove, whether they come from a kitchen mishap, car maintenance, or a greasy meal. These stains can cling to fabric fibers and become even more stubborn if they’re not treated quickly. But with the right approach, even greasy marks can be eliminated.

Why Grease Stains Stick

Grease and oil stains are tricky because they’re hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and don’t break down easily in a regular wash. Grease molecules bind tightly to fabric, making it difficult for water and detergent alone to lift them. The key to success with grease stains is to use methods that cut through the oil and break down the stain.

How to Remove Fresh Grease Stains

The quicker you treat a grease stain, the better your chances of removing it. Here’s what to do:

Blot the Excess

If there’s still grease on the surface, use a paper towel or cloth to blot (not rub!) as much as possible. Rubbing can spread the grease and push it deeper into the fibers.

Sprinkle with Absorbent Powder

Apply cornstarch, baby powder, or baking soda directly to the stain. These powders help absorb the oil. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.

Brush Off the Powder

Once the powder has absorbed the grease, gently brush it off.

Use Dish Soap

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it perfect for tackling greasy stains. Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain and work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.

Rinse with Hot Water

Rinse the stained area with the hottest water the fabric can handle. Heat helps to break down the grease.

Launder in Hot Water

Wash the garment in hot water (check the fabric care label for the highest temperature it can tolerate). Before drying, ensure the stain is fully gone—if it remains, repeat the process to avoid setting the stain.

Removing Set-In Grease Stains

Older grease stains may require more work, but they can still be treated effectively with the following steps:

Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for at least an hour to absorb the grease.

Treat with Dish Soap

After brushing off the powder, apply a generous amount of dish soap to the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Use a Stain Remover

Apply a commercial stain remover or laundry detergent to the area, gently scrubbing the fabric.

Soak in Hot Water

Soak the garment in a mixture of hot water and laundry detergent for about 30 minutes.

Wash and Air Dry

Wash the item in hot water and air dry. Avoid using the dryer until the stain is fully removed, as heat will set it.

Special Considerations for Delicate Fabrics

With delicate fabrics like silk or wool, avoid using dish soap directly. Instead, use a specialty cleaner or mild detergent designed for these materials. Test any solution on a small, hidden part of the fabric before treating the stain.

Preventing Grease Stains

Wear an Apron

When cooking or handling greasy materials, wear an apron to prevent stains from getting on your clothes.

Blot Immediately

If a grease stain happens, blot the area right away to remove as much of the grease as possible.

Treat Before Washing

Pre-treating grease stains before tossing your clothes into the laundry will help ensure the stain doesn’t set.

Need Help?

Grease and oil stains can be tough, but with the right tools and techniques, they can be removed. The key is to act fast and use grease-fighting solutions like dish soap and absorbent powders. For those hard-to-remove stains, your expert team is here to help. Your service includes free pickup and delivery, making it easier than ever to keep your clothes looking their best, even after a messy meal!