How to Get Grease
Stains Out of Clothes

Whether you enjoy sausage for breakfast or like to feast on hot wings during the game, keeping clothes grease-free is challenging. Napkins can only soak up so much grease and oil, and we’re only so careful. Even pretreating and machine washing stained clothing is often not enough to get the grease out. If your family is a fried food fan, it’s time to learn how to get grease stains out of clothes with field-tested laundry tips.  

Tips for Removing Grease From Clothes 

Work on the stain as soon as possible and wear a protective apron unless you want to work on more grease stains. Always test an out-of-the–way spot before using stain removers on clothes. Use a protective backer like cardboard between the stained fabric and the rest of the clothing to contain the grease. Because The Maids® is one of the only residential cleaners to clean for health, we recommend natural cleaners. Ditch the toxic chemicals and opt for safe, eco-friendly alternatives. 

How To Remove Oil Stains From Clothes With Vinegar  

Imagine a natural cleaning product that is also an antifungal, deodorizer, degreaser, and all-purpose cleaner. That’s where distilled white vinegar comes in. Vinegar is also a powerful whitener and an eco-friendly cleaning alternative to bleach. 

Here’s how to get rid of grease stains on clothes using white vinegar:

1. Remove excess grease using a spatula or butter knife. 
2. Dab the stained area gently with paper towels to soak up what’s left. 
3. Soak the stain with a mixture of one part water and two parts white vinegar. 
4. Use a toothbrush to scrub the oil stain. 
5. Rinse the stained area with water until the water runs clear. 
6. Machine-wash the clothing following the care label.

How To Get Grease Stains Out of Clothes With Baking Soda

Like vinegar, baking soda is a natural cleaner, deodorizer, and whitener. It’s been a kitchen staple for cooking and cleaning for generations and is a safe and effective stain buster. Because baking soda is a mild abrasive, the compound also gives you a boost of scrubbing power. Here’s how to use baking soda to remove oil stains from clothes. 

1. Use a butter knife or spatula to remove excess grease.
2. Blot the stain with paper towels to remove the rest.
3. Pour baking soda on the stain and let it work on the grease for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the excess baking soda and grease with a butter knife. 
5. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain again and lightly scrub it in. 
6. Scrape off the baking soda when it turns brown.
7. Repeat the process until the baking soda no longer changes color. 
8. Finish up by washing the clothing as you usually would. 

How To Get Grease Stains Out of Clothes With Dish Soap

Liquid dish soaps break down grease on your dishes and can do the same for your clothes. Most liquid dish soaps on the shelf aren’t eco-friendly but safe if used correctly. Here’s how to get an oil stain out of clothes with dish soap and water. 

1. Scrape off excess grease and use paper towels to remove the rest. 
2. Apply a few drops of dish soap to the stain and let it soak in for five minutes. 
3. Dampen the dish soap and work it into a foam.
4. Rub the solution into the stain with your fingers or use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
5. Rinse the grease stain area with warm water and machine wash the clothing separately. 

Regardless of how you remove oil stains from clothes, always let the clothing air dry. If there is any residue left, a dryer’s heat will set even the slightest remaining grease. Air drying won’t set stains, so you can repeat your stain treatment if needed. 

The Maids: Making Housekeeping Easier Since 1979

Now that you know how to get rid of grease stains on clothes, what’s next? Check out our stain removal guide to tackle everything from grass to wine to blood stains. Whether you rely on pro cleaning guides or invest in house cleaning services, The Maids wants to make housekeeping easier. Discover how professional house cleaners can let you enjoy a clean home more often and find time for the things you love. Get your free personalized quote today and let The Maids make life better.