How to Get Engine Oil Out of Clothes(6 Proven Methods)

Engine oil stains on clothes can be frustrating, especially since they are greasy, dark, and stubborn. Whether you accidentally spilled oil while working on your car or brushed against an oily surface, removing the stain requires the right approach.

Fortunately, with the right household products and techniques, you can restore your clothes to their original state.

In this post, I will walk you through various effective methods to remove engine oil from clothes, along with tips to prevent stains from setting in.

How to Get Engine Oil Out of Clothes

Method 1: Dish Soap and Hot Water

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it one of the best solutions for removing engine oil from clothes.

What You Need:

• Dish soap (such as Dawn)
• Hot water
• An old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush

Steps:

1. Apply Dish Soap: Pour a small amount of dish soap directly onto the stain.
2. Scrub Gently: Use an old toothbrush or your fingers to work the soap into the fabric.
3. Let It Sit: Allow the soap to break down the oil for about 10 minutes.
4. Rinse with Hot Water: Hot water helps dissolve oil faster. Rinse the stained area thoroughly.
5. Repeat if Necessary: If the stain persists, repeat the process before washing the garment as usual.

Method 2: Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar work well together to lift tough stains, including engine oil.

What You Need:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• A soft brush or cloth

Steps:

1. Sprinkle Baking Soda: Cover the stain with a generous amount of baking soda.
2. Let It Sit: Allow it to absorb the oil for at least 30 minutes.
3. Scrub Lightly: Use a brush or cloth to scrub the baking soda into the stain.
4. Add Vinegar: Pour a small amount of white vinegar over the stain. It will create a fizzing reaction that helps break down the oil.
5. Rinse and Wash: Rinse with warm water and launder as usual.

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Method 3: WD-40 and Dish Soap

WD-40 is effective in breaking down oil-based stains. However, it should be used carefully, as it contains its own oils.

What You Need:

• WD-40
• Dish soap
• A toothbrush
• Hot water

Steps:

1. Apply WD-40: Lightly spray WD-40 on the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Blot with Paper Towel: Dab the area to remove excess oil.
3. Add Dish Soap: Apply dish soap and scrub the stain with a toothbrush.
4. Rinse with Hot Water: Rinse thoroughly before washing the garment in hot water.

Caution: Test WD-40 on a hidden part of the fabric first, as it may cause discoloration.

Method 4: Laundry Detergent and Baking Soda

Laundry detergent designed for greasy stains can also help lift engine oil from clothes.

What You Need:

• Heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent
• Baking soda
• Hot water

Steps:

1. Apply Detergent: Pour detergent directly onto the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
2. Sprinkle Baking Soda: Add baking soda to help absorb the oil.
3. Scrub Gently: Use a brush to work the mixture into the fabric.
4. Rinse and Wash: Wash the garment in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

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Method 5: Cornstarch for Delicate Fabrics

For delicate fabrics that can’t withstand harsh scrubbing, cornstarch is a gentle alternative.

What You Need:

• Cornstarch
• A soft cloth
• Warm water

Steps:

1. Apply Cornstarch: Sprinkle a thick layer of cornstarch over the stain.
2. Let It Sit: Allow it to absorb the oil for 1–2 hours.
3. Brush Off: Gently remove the cornstarch with a cloth.
4. Rinse and Wash: Wash as usual with mild detergent.

Method 6: Coca-Cola Trick

Believe it or not, Coca-Cola can help break down grease stains.

What You Need:

• A can of Coca-Cola
• Laundry detergent

Steps:

1. Pour Coke on the Stain: Let it soak for 30 minutes.
2. Wash as Usual: Launder with regular detergent in warm water.

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Immediate Steps to Take When You Spill Engine Oil

The faster you act, the better your chances of fully removing the stain. Here’s what to do immediately after spilling engine oil on your clothes:

1. Blot the Excess Oil – Use a paper towel or clean cloth to blot as much oil as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain further.
2. Sprinkle an Absorbent – Apply baking soda, baby powder, cornstarch, or even flour over the stain to absorb excess oil. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before brushing it off.
3. Do Not Use Water First – Water can cause oil to spread rather than lifting it. Instead, use dry absorbents before applying any liquid cleaners.

Preventing Engine Oil Stains

While stains are inevitable if you work around cars or machinery, you can take steps to prevent them:

• Wear Protective Clothing – Use old clothes or coveralls when working with oil.
• Use an Apron or Work Shirt – A dedicated work apron can protect your everyday clothes.
• Handle Oil Containers Carefully – Avoid spills by sealing containers properly.
• Keep a Stain Remover Handy – Having a degreaser or stain remover nearby helps in quick action.

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Final words

Engine oil stains can be tough, but they aren’t impossible to remove. The key is acting quickly, using the right cleaning agents, and choosing a method based on your fabric type. Whether you prefer dish soap, baking soda, or even Coca-Cola, these methods can help restore your clothes to their former state.