How to Clean Vaseline Off of Furniture

Dry cleaning solvent is helpful for removing oily stains from upholstery.

Vaseline is a petroleum-based substance that has many uses, most of which are related to lubrication. The oily nature of Vaseline can cause stains on upholstered furniture if the substance comes into contact with the fabric. You don't have to get rid of furniture that has become stained from Vaseline. You can remove these types of stains if you use the proper cleaning products and techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Blunt knife
• Corn starch
• Toothbrush
• Cloths
• Dry cleaning solvent

Instructions

1. Scrape off excess Vaseline with a blunt-edged knife.

2. Sprinkle corn starch on the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.

3. Brush off the corn starch with a clean toothbrush.

4. Dampen a clean cloth with dry cleaning solvent and use it to dab the stain.

5. Press a clean, dry cloth onto the stain to blot it dry.

6. Repeat dabbing the solvent and blotting the stain until the stain is gone.

References

• "How the Queen Cleans Everything"; Linda Cobb; 2002
• Good Housekeeping: Stain Buster -- Motor Oil/Grease