Easy Ways to Remove Oil Stains from Cotton Clothes

Oil stains on cotton clothes can spread quickly and cling to the fabric, making them seem tough to remove. Be it a cooking oil spill, an unexpected grease mark, or a tough motor oil stain, treating them correctly is essential for keeping clothes clean and free from stains.

However, with the right approach, these stains do not have to be permanent. From using household ingredients to quick pre-treatment techniques, there are several simple yet effective ways to restore cotton clothes to their original state. In this guide, we'll get to know how to remove oil stains from cotton clothes effectively.

Cotton is highly absorbent; it quickly traps oil within its fibres, making the stain challenging to remove. Unlike water-based stains that may fade with a simple wash, oil repels water, causing it to cling stubbornly to the fabric. Over time, the stain can oxidise, turning yellow and further setting into the material. Heat exposure, such as from ironing or tumble drying, can worsen the situation by solidifying the stain.

The type of oil also plays a role—thicker oils like butter or machine grease tend to penetrate deeper, while lighter oils like baby oil spread quickly, making them harder to detect initially but equally tough to remove once set.

Acting quickly is crucial when removing oil stains from cotton clothes. The faster the stain is dealt with, the easier it will be to remove. Follow these steps to prevent the oil from settling deep into the fabric:

• Dab the Stain: Quickly after the spill, take a clean paper towel or dry cloth and gently blot the affected spot. This helps soak up as much oil as possible before it seeps further into the fabric.
• Avoid Rubbing: Rubbing the stain can spread the oil, making it more challenging to remove. Always use a blotting motion instead.

Once the excess oil has been blotted, pre-treating the stain helps break down the grease before washing. This step ensures a more effective stain-removal process. For removing stains from cotton clothes, a specialised cotton stain remover can provide extra cleaning power.

Vanish Crystal White Liquid is designed to lift stains effectively without damaging the fabric. Here is how to use it for pre-treatment:

Apply Vanish Crystal White Liquid Directly on the Stain

• Pour a small amount of Vanish Crystal White Liquid directly onto the affected area.
• Ensure the stain is fully covered to allow the solution to work effectively.

Gently Rub the Fabric

• Using a soft brush, gently rub the liquid into the stain.
• This helps the solution penetrate deeper into the fibres, breaking down the oil residue.

Let It Sit for 10 Minutes

• Leave the stain remover on for about 10 minutes to help loosen the oil.
• Be careful not to exceed this time, as prolonged exposure may affect the fabric.

Do Not Let It Dry on the Fabric

• Ensure the Vanish Crystal White Liquid does not dry on the garment, as this could make it harder to rinse out.
• If needed, keep the fabric slightly damp during the process.

Wash the Garment as Usual

• After pre-treatment, wash the garment in warm water with a mild detergent.
• Make sure the stain is gone before drying, as heat can lock any leftover oil into the fabric.

If the oil stain remains even after pre-treatment, soaking the garment helps loosen deep-set stains, allowing for better removal. This technique allows the cotton stain remover to fully absorb into the fabric.

Prepare the Soaking Solution

• In a large container or bucket, mix 100 ml of Vanish Crystal White Liquid with 5 litres of warm water.
• Mix thoroughly to ensure the solution is evenly spread.

Soak the Garment

• Fully submerge the stained cotton clothing in the prepared solution.
• Let it soak for up to 6 hours, depending on how tough the stain is.
• For lighter stains, a shorter soaking time may be sufficient.

Wash the Clothes as Usual

• After soaking, wash the garment following the standard washing instructions.
• This step removes any remaining oil residue and ensures a fresh, stain-free finish.

Once the stain has been pre-treated or soaked, washing correctly is key to completely removing oil stains from cotton clothes while maintaining their quality.

Use a High-quality Detergent with Vanish Crystal White Liquid

• Combine your regular detergent with Vanish Crystal White Liquid for enhanced stain removal.
• This ensures any leftover oil or grease is thoroughly washed out.

Add Vanish Crystal White Liquid to the Washing Machine

• For mild stains, use 50 ml of Vanish Crystal White Liquid along with your detergent.
• For tougher stains, increase the amount to 100 ml for better effectiveness.

Check for Stains Before Drying

• Before placing the garment in the dryer or under the sun, ensure the stain is completely gone.
• Heat can set stains permanently, making them much harder to remove later.

Pre-treating the stain, soaking the fabric, and washing it properly help restore cotton garments to their original freshness. Using Vanish Crystal White Liquid ensures that both fresh and set-in stains are lifted with ease. While dealing with a small spill or a stubborn mark, these techniques help maintain spotless, well-kept clothes.

Regular care and proper stain removal methods not only keep fabrics looking clean but also extend the lifespan of your favourite cotton garments. With consistent care, keeping cotton clothes stain-free becomes effortless.