How to Remove an Olive Oil Stain from Clothing

When it comes to removing stains on clothing such as an olive oil stain there are two basic rules. Treat the stain it as soon as possible and don't put the item in the dryer after washing. Obviously the faster that you treat the stain the more success you will have removing it. And if you put the item in the dryer when you aren't sure it is completely removed you have pretty much set the stain for good. This article will provide you step by step tips for getting rid of nasty olive oil stains. Before you try a commercial oil stain remover you may be able to save your clothing with these tips.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda or cornstarch
• dish detergent
• paper towels

Instructions

1. Gently blot the stain. You want to carefully try and lift the olive oil stain with a paper towel but don't rub or you risk working stain right in to the clothing.

2. Pour a little baking soda or cornstarch on the stain. Gently rub it in and let sit about a half hour.

3. Brush off the baking soda or cornstarch. If the olive oil stain is still there repeat the process.

4. If the baking soda or cornstarch has removed the olive oil stain rinse and wash as usual. Allow to air dry so that you can be certain that the stain has been completely removed.

5. An alternative method for removing stains that are oil based is to apply a grease fighting dish detergent such as dawn . Blot the stain with a paper towel, apply to the olive oil stain, work in and allow to sit for a few minutes. Rinse and launder as usual. Allow to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Removing stains can be tricky. Sometimes you think the stain is gone but it will show up again after future washings. To be on the safe side air dry the item after the next few washings so that if it does reappear the dryer wont set the stain.

• When removing stains make sure that your method of treatment wont damage the fabric. Test in an inconspicuous area first.

• If you have an expensive garment and are worried that you wont be able to remove the stain then your best bet is to take it to the dry cleaners as soon as possible.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish