“How to Remove Set-In Grease Stains from Clothes”

9 August, 2025

Grease stains on clothing can be a real nuisance, especially when they seem impossible to remove. The following steps on how to remove old grease stains from clothes will help you get rid of those pesky stains.

With the right approach, you can eliminate grease stains from your clothing and restore them to their original state. Whether it’s a stubborn grease stain or an old, set-in stain, it’s important to use the right techniques and proven cleaning products. Dish soap, baking soda, and laundry detergent are household essentials that can help remove even the toughest grease stains.

How to Remove Old Grease Stains from Clothes

Materials You’ll Need
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Grease Stains from Clothes

Materials You’ll Need

There are various products you can use to clean grease stains, and many of them are specifically formulated for this purpose. However, you may already own products that work just as well. With a little ingenuity, you might not even need to machine-wash the greasy garment.

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease and grime, so it will be effective (even in small amounts) when applied directly to stained fabric. You can even make your own dish soap.
Baking soda: Sodium bicarbonate (the chemical formula for baking soda), a surprisingly versatile substance, can also be a powerful ally in the fight against stubborn stains on clothing.
Hot water is another useful and common aid in washing out stains from clothing. The heat in the water helps dissolve grease, making it easier to wash away.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Grease Stains from Clothes

Step 1: Blot and Remove Excess Oil

Start by blotting the stained area with paper towels or a clean cloth to remove excess oil. Be gentle to avoid spreading the stain further. This step helps prevent the oil from penetrating deeper into the fabric. You can use paper towels or absorbent cloth for this step.

Step 2: Apply Dish Soap or Liquid Dish Detergent

Apply a small amount of dish soap or liquid dish detergent directly to the stain. Gently rub the soap into the fabric with your finger or a soft brush. Dish soap is designed to break down grease and is effective on tough grease and food stains.

Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda on Stubborn Stains

For stubborn grease stains or set-in stains, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area after applying dish soap. Baking soda helps absorb any remaining grease and creates a mild abrasive effect. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Soak in Warm Water

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and soak the greasy garment. Gently agitate the water to help loosen the grease stains. Soak the clothing for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the cleaning agents to work.

Step 5: Wash with Laundry Detergent

After soaking, apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Then, wash the garment in the washing machine using the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric. Check the care label on the clothing to determine whether to use hot or cold water.

Step 6: Check for Remaining Grease Residue

Before drying, inspect the garment to ensure the stain is gone. If the stain persists, repeat the process using dish soap, baking soda, and liquid laundry detergent before washing again.

Avoid drying the garment until you’re certain the grease stain has been completely removed, as high heat can set the stain permanently, especially the high heat of an electric dryer.

Step 7: Air Dry the Garment

Once the stain is gone, air-dry the garment instead of using a dryer. Air-drying ensures that grease doesn’t get baked into the fabric. When the garment is dry, inspect it again to make sure the stain has been completely removed.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove grease stains and keep your clothes looking clean and fresh. Whether you’re dealing with a cooking oil stain or a stubborn grease stain, this simple method will get your clothes back to their former glory.