Oil-based stains are notoriously difficult to remove from clothes, but a simple method using a common kitchen item can help tackle even the most stubborn marks. Stains can ruin clothing, especially when oil soaks deep into fabric. Oil repels water and clings to fibers, making it hard to remove in a washing machine. As oil oxidizes, it becomes sticky and sets into the material, potentially spreading further.
Cleaning Expert's Trusted Technique
Cleaning expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila on TikTok, has shared her technique for banishing oil stains for good. The method requires just one household staple: baking soda. If your usual wash cycle isn't working, check your kitchen cupboards.
Step-by-Step Guide
You will need baking soda and baking paper. To tackle oil stains, place a small sheet of baking paper behind the stain, on the underside of the fabric. You may need to slide the paper inside the garment. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain, ensuring it is fully covered. Baking soda is highly absorbent, drawing out moisture and oil from the fabric. Leave it to sit and absorb as much oil as possible. If the baking soda clumps, it is working. Baking soda also acts as a deodorizer.
Take a fresh sheet of baking paper and fold it in half. Carefully iron over the top of the baking paper, heating the baking soda beneath. This helps lift the oil further. Do not apply heat for too long. After ironing, remove the paper and brush off any remaining baking soda. The stain should disappear entirely.
Important Tips
Appliance manufacturer Bosch notes that when tackling oil stains, keep the fabric dry and avoid rinsing. Rinsing is one of the worst things to do, as oil repels water and clings to fibers when wet. Before using baking soda, blot the stain with a clean, dry kitchen roll. Do not rub; dab instead. Cleaning product firm Tide emphasizes acting fast on oil stains, dabbing away excess oil with kitchen roll before any cleaning.
Exercise caution on dark or colored garments, as baking soda may fade or discolor fabric.
