Remove Oil Stains Quickly with a Simple Kitchen Hack
Spilling food on your clothes can be frustrating, especially when oil seeps into the fabric. Oil stains are notoriously difficult to remove because they repel water and penetrate deep into porous fibres. As oil oxidizes, it becomes sticky and sets into the material, while its tendency to spread makes it hard to lift. However, cleaning expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila on TikTok, has shared a quick method using common kitchen ingredients that can eliminate oil stains in minutes without the need for washing.
The Method: Baking Soda and Ironing
According to Mila, you only need three household items: baking soda, washing-up liquid, and a sheet of baking paper. To target an oil stain, place a small strip of baking paper behind the stain—you may need to slip it inside the garment. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain, covering it completely. The baking soda will absorb the oil. Then, take another sheet of baking paper, fold it in half, and carefully iron over the top. The heat helps lift the oil further. After ironing, gently brush off the excess baking soda with your fingers, and the stain should disappear.
Why It Works
Baking soda acts as an absorbent, drawing oil out of the fabric. Washing-up liquid helps break down tough grease. Together, they provide a powerful stain-fighting combination. Mila notes that this technique works best on fresh stains, while older stains may require her original method of dish soap and baking soda. Experts at Tide also recommend acting quickly: dab any excess oil with a paper towel before cleaning.
Caution for Coloured Clothes
Be careful when using this hack on dark or coloured fabrics. Baking soda has a high pH that can damage protein-based fibres like wool, cashmere, and silk, and may cause dyes to fade. Although it is not bleach, it can have a bleaching effect on some coloured materials, potentially leading to discolouration. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
