How to Remove Motor Oil From Cargo Shorts

When working on your car on a hot day, you may inadvertently get motor oil on your cargo shorts. Motor oil is dark, sticky and messy, so you may be intimidated by the thought of removing it from your shorts. Although it may seem daunting, removing motor oil from shorts can actually be done rather quickly. Don't throw away your cargo shorts just because of a motor oil stain. Use the proper products and methods and that oil stain on your shorts will be history.

Things You'll Need

• Spoon
• Paper towels
• Cornstarch or baby powder
• Dish soap
• Water
• WD-40 or lighter fluid

Instructions

1. Scrape as much oil from the shorts as possible with a spoon. Gently scoop up the oil from the shorts with the spoon, taking care not to spread the oil onto unaffected areas of the shorts.

2. Blot up the remaining motor oil with paper towels. Use a lifting motion while dabbing the spot with the paper towels. Switch to a clean paper towel as one becomes saturated in oil. Continue to do this until the oil no longer comes off on the paper towels.

3. Sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder onto the motor oil stain. Allow it to set on the stain for about 10 minutes. This will help to absorb even more of the oil.

4. Remove the cornstarch or baby powder from the shorts. Carefully scoop it up with a paper towel, taking care not to spread it.

5. Place a few drops of dish soap directly onto the motor oil stain. Add a few drops of water to the area.

6. Scrub the stain lightly with a toothbrush. Scrub in a circular motion and scrub both sides of the fabric.

7. Wash the cargo shorts as directed on the care label. Allow the shorts to air dry, then inspect for any traces of the motor oil. Do not place the shorts in the dryer until you are absolutely sure that no sign of the motor oil stain remains. The dryer heat will set in the stain, making it nearly impossible to remove.

8. Spray the motor oil stain with WD-40 or lighter fluid if the stain persists. Rub the WD-40 into the stained area of the shorts using your fingers. Wash the fabric as normal.

Tips & Warnings

• Always test the product you are using on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric prior to placing it on a more noticeable area.

• Use caution when working with lighter fluid. Lighter fluid is hazardous and may cause harm if used incorrectly.

References

• How to Clean Stuff: How to Remove Engine Oil and Grease Stains
• Mrs. Clean: How to Remove Grease Stains
• "Clean It Fast, Clean It Right;" Jeff Bredenberg; 1998