How to Remove Oil Stains From Upholstery

Removing oil stains is easy.

Oil stains are a problem that is present in many homes from time to time. Upholstery on furniture is especially susceptible to these stains, as greasy food, body lotion or even hair oils can easily rub off and produce a stain on your upholstery. Luckily you can remove this stains quickly and effectively with the right products. Instead of paying for high priced commercial products, grab a few items from your kitchen cupboard.

Things You'll Need

• Cornstarch or baking powder
• Dish soap
• Toothbrush
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Sprinkle a thick coating of corn starch or baking powder onto the stain, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Either of these items is an absorbing agent, which will pull most if not all of the oil out of the upholstery without damaging the upholstery itself.

2. Gather the baking powder with a paper towel and discard.

3. Pour a drop of liquid dish soap onto an old toothbrush, and scrub the dish soap into the stain. The soap will naturally break up and remove the grease or oil. Repeat until the entire stain has been removed, re-applying fresh dish soap and scrubbing more as needed.

4. Moisten a paper towel with water and blot the stained area to remove any remaining dish soap or oil, and allow the area to air dry.

References

• Mrs. Clean: Removing Oil Stains