The Ultimate Guide to Removing Oil Stains on Clothes After Drying

woman looking at laundry

Oil stains on clothes can be a frustrating problem to deal with, especially when they have already dried. 

In this article, we will explain why oil stains are difficult to remove after drying and provide you with expert tips and methods for removing them from your clothes.

Let’s get started.

Understanding Oil Stains on Clothes After Drying

Oil stains on clothes are notoriously difficult to remove once they have dried because the oil can penetrate deep into the fabric fibers, making it harder to lift out. 

Different types of oils can also affect fabric differently. For example, vegetable oils may leave a greasy residue, while motor oil may leave a dark stain.

Tips for Removing Oil Stains on Clothes After Drying

Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to remove oil stains from clothes even after they have dried. 

Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Blot the Stain: Before attempting to remove the stain, you should blot the area with a clean cloth to remove as much of the excess oil as possible.
  2. Use Dish Soap: Dish soap is an effective method for removing oil stains from clothes. Apply a small amount of dish soap to the stained area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before washing the garment as usual.
  3. Try Baking Soda: Baking soda is another effective method for removing oil stains. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing the garment.
  4. Use Commercial Stain Removers: There are several commercial stain removers available on the market that can effectively remove oil stains. Follow the instructions on the label for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When attempting to remove oil stains from clothes after drying, there are some common mistakes you should avoid:

  1. Using Hot Water: Hot water can actually be beneficial for removing oil stains from clothes, but it depends on the type of fabric and the type of oil stain. Hot water can help to break down some types of oil, making them easier to remove. However, it’s important to note that hot water can also set some types of oil stains in, making them more difficult to remove. Therefore, it’s best to follow the care label instructions on the garment, as well as any specific stain removal instructions for the type of oil stain you are dealing with.
  2. Rubbing the Stain: Rubbing the stain can cause the oil to spread further into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Instead, blot the stain gently with a clean cloth.

Conclusion: 

Oil stains on clothes after drying can be a frustrating problem, but with the right methods and techniques, you can effectively remove them. 

By following these tips, you can keep your clothes looking their best and avoid having to throw away stained garments.

Want more stain-cleaning tips? Read Removing Spray Paint from Clothes: Tricks and Techniques from the Pros.

Thanks for reading my blog.

-Baking Soda Guy

Photo by Sarah Chai from Pexels