š§ŗ How to Remove Set-In Grease Stains From Laundry
Set-in grease stains can be stubborn, but you can often loosen them with dish soap and a good laundry detergent.
What you’ll need
- Liquid dishwashing soap
- Liquid laundry detergent
- An old soft toothbrush or laundry brush
- Warm water
- A clean cloth
Step-by-step
- Check the care label first. Don’t use hot water if the garment requires cold washing or is made from a delicate fabric.
- Don’t wet the stain initially. Blot or gently scrape away any dried grease without spreading it.
- Apply liquid dish soap directly to the stain. Use enough to completely cover it.
- Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft toothbrush. Avoid aggressive scrubbing that could damage the fabric.
- Leave it for 10ā15 minutes.
- Rinse from the back of the stain with the warmest water the fabric safely allows.
- Apply liquid laundry detergent, then wash according to the garment’s care instructions.
- Check before drying. If the stain remains, repeat the treatment. Don’t put the garment in a dryer until the grease is gone because heat can make the remaining stain harder to remove.
For really stubborn stains
For washable, colorfast clothing, a laundry pre-treatment designed for grease/oil can be more effective than repeated scrubbing. Test any new product on an inconspicuous area first.
ā ļø Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other household cleaners. And don’t use highly flammable solvents on clothing at home unless the product specifically says they’re safe for that purpose.
Tip: Grease stains are easiest to remove when treated before drying, but even older stains can sometimes come out with repeated treatment.
