How to Remove Oil Stains from Clothes: The Complete Guide

We've all been there — cooking dinner for your kids when that sizzling pan sends tiny oil droplets all over your nice work clothes, or accidentally dripping pizza grease on your favorite pants. As a mom of two energetic boys, I know exactly how common these oil mishaps are in everyday family life!

Oil stains can be extra stubborn because they don't simply rinse away with water. But don't worry — whether you're dealing with fresh spills or dried-in grease marks, this guide will walk you through effective methods to get your clothes looking fresh again.

Why Are Oil Stains So Difficult to Remove?

Oil and water don't mix — it's a simple scientific fact that makes these stains particularly challenging. When oil soaks into fabric fibers, it creates a barrier that prevents water-based cleaners from penetrating. Additionally, heat from washing or drying can actually set oil stains, making them permanent if not treated properly.

That's why having the right approach makes all the difference between getting rid of the stain, or having to say goodbye to your favorite shirt!

Protect Your Clothes with Hedley and Bennett Aprons

Before we dive into stain removal, let's talk prevention! In my kitchen, a Hedley and Bennett apron has become an essential tool. The durable material blocks oil splatters from reaching clothes, while the thoughtful design offers better coverage than standard aprons. With convenient pockets and an adjustable fit, it's a practical investment that's saved countless favorite shirts from oil stains during my daily cooking adventures.

How to Get Oil Stains Out of Clothes: Fresh Stains

When you catch an oil stain immediately, you have the best chance of complete removal. Here's what to do:

1. Blot (don't rub) the excess oil with a clean paper towel or cloth
2. Apply an absorbent powder like baking soda, cornstarch, or baby powder to draw out the oil
3. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb as much oil as possible
4. Brush away the powder gently
5. Dissolve a HeySunday dishwasher sheet in warm water, and apply directly to the stain (it's designed to cut through grease!)
6. Gently rub the soapy water into the fabric using your fingers or an old toothbrush
7. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes
8. Wash according to the garment's care instructions in cold water

For best results, air dry the garment after washing and check if the stain is completely gone before putting it in the dryer, as heat can set any remaining oil.

Can Oil Stains Be Removed Once Dried?

Yes! While fresh stains are easier to treat, dried oil stains aren't impossible to tackle. They just require a bit more persistence and the right approach:

How to Remove Dried Oil Stains from Clothes

1. Apply a degreasing agent directly to the stain
   • A HeySunday laundry sheet dissolved in warm water
   • Commercial degreasers or stain removers formulated for oil
   • Liquid laundry detergent with stain-fighting enzymes
2. Work the solution into the fabric
   • Use your fingers or a soft-bristled brush
   • Apply gentle pressure in circular motions
   • Ensure the entire stain is saturated
3. Let it sit longer than for fresh stains
   • Allow 30 minutes to several hours for tough stains
   • For very stubborn stains, leave overnight
4. Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric
   • Add HeySunday Laundry Detergent Sheets for effective cleaning
   • One sheet for standard loads, two for heavily soiled items
5. Check before drying
   • Air dry partially to check if stain remains
   • Repeat treatment if necessary
   • Only machine dry once stain is completely gone — with a HeySunday dryer sheet

What is the Best Stain Remover for Oil Stains on Clothes?

While many commercial options exist, these proven oil stain fighters are the ones I use regularly:

• A HeySunday dishwasher sheet dissolved in warm water: The kitchen solution that's already in your home
• Baking soda paste: Mix with water for a gentle abrasive treatment
• Enzyme-based stain removers: These break down oil molecules effectively
• Chalk: Rubbing white chalk over the stain can absorb oil before washing
• HeySunday laundry detergent sheets: gentle on fabrics and tough on oil!

For different fabric types, consider these recommendations:

• Delicates: a HeySunday dishwasher and cool water, hand wash
• Synthetics: Baking soda followed by enzyme cleaner
• Cotton/durable fabrics: Any of the above methods
• Wool: Specialized wool detergent only, avoid hot water

Does Vinegar Remove Oil Stains from Clothes?

Vinegar can be helpful as part of your oil-fighting toolbox, though it works best when combined with other methods. White vinegar's acidic properties help break down some components of oil stains and can boost the effectiveness of other treatments.

For best results:

1. Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water
2. Soak the stained area for 15-30 minutes
3. Follow with HeySunday dishwasher sheet and water treatment
4. Wash as normal with HeySunday laundry detergent sheets

Vinegar is particularly effective for stains that also contain odors, like cooking oil that may have food particles mixed in.

Prevention: The Best Strategy

The easiest stain to remove is the one that never happens! Consider these preventive tips:

• Wear a Hedley and Bennett apron when cooking, so you don’t have to treat stains in the first place!
• Keep a stain stick in your bag for immediate treatment when you're away from home
• Apply a fabric protector spray to frequently stained items
• Change into casual clothes before messy cooking projects

The Bottom Line on Oil Stain Removal

Remember, you can get those stubborn stains out! Just be sure to act quickly and apply degreasers as soon as possible. Always check stains are gone before machine drying — after using HeySunday laundry detergent sheets for their grease-cutting power, of course. You can also stop stains before they start by wearing your Hedley and Bennett apron in the first place!

Happy cleaning (and cooking!)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get dried oil stains out of clothes?

Apply a degreasing agent (like a dissolved HeySunday dishwasher sheet) directly to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric using HeySunday Laundry Detergent Sheets.

Can oil stains be washed out of clothes?

Yes, but they require pre-treatment before washing. Apply an absorbent powder to fresh stains or a degreaser to dried stains, then wash with HeySunday Laundry Detergent Sheets.

How to remove old grease stains from clothing?

Work a degreaser (like a dissolved HeySunday dishwasher sheet) into the stain, let it sit overnight, then wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric using HeySunday Laundry Detergent Sheets.

Does Dawn remove oil stains from clothes?

While Dawn dish soap can help with oil stains, HeySunday dishwasher sheets dissolved in warm water are equally effective and already in your home as part of your eco-friendly cleaning routine.