How to get oil out of clothes: A step-by-step guide

When it comes to tackling oil stains on clothes, it's crucial to act quickly and pre-treat it before washing. Whether it's a splatter of cooking oil or a greasy mark, taking immediate action can make all the difference. First, remove any excess oil from the fabric—you can do this by blotting the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel, being careful not to rub it in further, and then applying a stain remover to safely pre-treat the stain. Another method is to use baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. These powders will help to absorb the oil and make it easier to remove.  

Often detergents alone are not enough to remove tough stains, therefore you can choose to boost your detergent performance by adding a powerful stain remover, like Vanish Oxi Action Powder, which is specifically designed to tackle tough stains, including those from oil. Its formula combines the power of sodium percarbonate, catalysts, enzymes and surfactants and is known for its ability to break down and lift oil from fabrics. Avoid using bleach-based detergents, as they can set the stain and make it more difficult to remove.  

This is a simple solution to lift stubborn stains away and ideal for everyday fabrics like cotton or polyester. To use it, simply mix 1/4 scoop of powder with 3/4 scoop of water. Then, apply the mix on the stain and rub with the back of the scoop. After leaving the paste on the stain for ten minutes maximum, just wash as usual with your detergent and an additional scoop of the stain remover. 

Now, it's time to launder your clothes. Start by checking the care label to select the appropriate washing machine settings and temperature—for optimal stain removal, use Vanish Oxi Action Powder. You won’t need to dial up the temperature, as Vanish safely removes tough stains even at 20°C, protecting your pocket at the same time as maintaining the fabrics and colours of your favourite clothes.  

Additionally, select a cycle that is suitable for your clothes, such as a heavy-duty or stain-fighting cycle. If necessary, you can also add some additional stain-fighting products, such as oxygen bleach or enzyme-based laundry boosters as they can help further break down the oil and enhance the stain removal process.  

For example, a scoop of Vanish Oxi Action Powder can be added alongside your detergent during the laundering process to help boost stain elimination – especially for heavily oil-stained garments that carry an odour. 

After laundering your clothes, inspect the stain before drying them. If you still notice any traces of oil, don’t dry the clothes as the heat can set the stain and make it more difficult to remove later. Instead, repeat the pre-treatment and detergent application steps, allowing the detergent to sit for a longer period of time. If the mark persists even after re-treating, consider using an alternative method or product specifically designed for stubborn stains. By inspecting the stain and taking immediate action if necessary, you can ensure that your clothes are completely oil-free before moving on to the drying process.  

Drying the clothes

The drying process is crucial to prevent any remaining oil stains from setting in or spreading. If possible, air dry the garment, as it allows the clothes to dry without heat. Hang your clothes on a clothesline or lay them flat on a clean surface, ensuring that the problem areas are exposed to air. Avoid using a dryer as the heat can cause any remaining oil to be further absorbed into the fabric. If you do use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove the clothes as soon as they are dry to minimise the risk of heat setting the stain.  

Step 7: Final touches

If you plan to iron your clothes, make sure the stain is removed before applying heat. To prevent future oil stains, store your clothes properly by ensuring they are clean and dry. By following these tips, you can maintain stain-free clothes and keep them looking fresh and clean. 

By following our step-by-step guide and utilising the right techniques and products, you will successfully know how to get rid of oil stains on clothes and restore them to their original condition. Remember to act quickly, choose the right product and pre-treat the stain effectively for the best results. With a little patience and the right approach, you can say goodbye to those pesky oil stains and keep your clothes looking fresh and clean.