Engine oil stains on clothing are a common nuisance for mechanics, DIY car enthusiasts, and even people performing basic maintenance on their vehicles. While these stains can be stubborn, the good news is that they’re not impossible to remove. With the right techniques and cleaning agents, you can restore your clothes to a clean, wearable state.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to get engine oil out of clothes, including the best household products, proven step-by-step cleaning methods, tips for different fabric types, and how to prevent permanent stains in the future.
Whether you’re dealing with a fresh oil splatter or an old, set-in stain, this blog has the answers you need.
Why Engine Oil Stains Are So Stubborn
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand why engine oil stains are difficult to remove. Engine oil is a hydrocarbon-based lubricant, which means it’s both greasy and water-repellent. When oil soaks into fabric fibers, it clings tightly, resisting conventional washing techniques.
Furthermore, heat (from dryers or hot water) can set the stain permanently, which is why it’s critical to treat engine oil stains as soon as possible and follow the proper steps carefully.
How to Get Engine Oil Out of Clothes: Step-by-Step Process
Here is a detailed method that works for most clothing items and fabric types.
✅ Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil Immediately
If the stain is fresh, use a paper towel or clean cloth to blot as much oil as possible. Do not rub it—rubbing spreads the oil and pushes it deeper into the fibers.
Pro Tip: Place a piece of cardboard or another clean towel behind the stained area to prevent the oil from soaking through to the other side.
✅ Step 2: Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch directly onto the stained area. These absorbent powders help pull the oil out of the fabric.
- Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
- If the stain is heavy, gently press the powder into the fabric using a soft brush.
Afterward, shake off or brush away the powder.
✅ Step 3: Use Dish Soap (Degreaser)
Dishwashing liquid is designed to cut through grease, which makes it ideal for treating engine oil stains.
- Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap directly onto the stain.
- Use an old toothbrush or soft brush to gently scrub the soap into the fabric.
- Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
Best Choices: Dawn, Palmolive, or other degreasing dish soaps work particularly well.
✅ Step 4: Rinse With Hot Water (If Fabric Allows)
Check the care label on the clothing. If it can tolerate heat:
- Rinse the stained area under hot water to loosen and flush out the oil and soap mixture.
- Repeat the dish soap treatment if needed before moving on to washing.
Warning: Avoid hot water for delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
✅ Step 5: Wash in the Washing Machine
Now that the oil has been broken down:
- Wash the garment separately from other clothes.
- Use the hottest water safe for the fabric, along with a strong detergent.
You may also add a cup of white vinegar to the wash to boost stain-fighting power.
✅ Step 6: Air Dry Only
Never put the garment in the dryer until the stain is completely gone. Heat will set the stain permanently. Instead:
- Hang the item to air dry and inspect it.
- If traces of the stain remain, repeat the process.
Alternative Methods for Removing Engine Oil from Clothes
While the baking soda + dish soap combo is the most common and accessible, there are several other methods worth trying depending on your needs and available materials.
🔸 1. Commercial Degreasers
Products like Gojo, Fast Orange, or Zep Heavy-Duty Degreaser are specifically designed to remove oil and grease from skin and surfaces. They also work well on fabric, especially workwear.
How to use:
- Apply directly to the stain.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse and wash as normal.
🔸 2. WD-40 + Baking Soda
WD-40 can help dissolve old, dried-in oil stains, making them easier to lift from fabric.
Steps:
- Spray a small amount of WD-40 on the stain.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the top.
- Scrub gently with a toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and follow up with dish soap and machine wash.
Caution: Test WD-40 on a small, hidden area first, especially for light or delicate fabrics.
🔸 3. Shampoo or Lestoil
If you’re out of dish soap, clarifying shampoos or Lestoil (a heavy-duty household cleaner) can be effective in breaking down oil.
- Apply, scrub, and wash as you would with dish soap.
- Works particularly well for small stains and casual clothing.
Special Fabric Considerations
Different fabrics react differently to oil and cleaning agents. Here’s how to handle them:
👕 Cotton
- Absorbs oil quickly but is durable and can tolerate scrubbing.
- Use hot water and aggressive treatment if necessary.
🧥 Polyester & Synthetics
- Stains sit on the surface more than absorb.
- Use dish soap and avoid excessive heat.
👚 Wool & Silk
- Delicate—avoid harsh chemicals and hot water.
- Blot and take to a professional cleaner if the stain persists.
🧢 Denim
- Treat like cotton but may require extra scrubbing for thick areas.
Prevention Tips for the Future
Sometimes the best method is to avoid the problem entirely. Here are practical tips to prevent engine oil from ruining your clothes:
- Wear Protective Gear – Use coveralls, aprons, or mechanic shirts when working with oil.
- Change Clothes Immediately After Exposure – The faster you act, the easier it is to remove the stain.
- Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy – Store dish soap, baking soda, and old brushes in the garage or laundry room.
- Use a Barrier Layer – Tuck a rag, towel, or absorbent mat over your clothes if you’re doing quick car maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can engine oil stains be removed after drying?
It’s harder, but not impossible. Use WD-40 or a commercial degreaser to break down the set-in stain, then follow the dish soap method. Expect to repeat the process several times.
Q2: Is it safe to use gasoline to remove oil stains?
No. Gasoline is highly flammable and toxic. It poses serious health and safety risks. Stick with safe cleaning agents like dish soap or degreasers.
Q3: What’s the best way to remove engine oil from colored clothes?
Use clear dish soap to avoid fading. Avoid bleach and always test any product on a small area first to ensure colorfastness.
Q4: How long should I let the baking soda sit?
Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes. For heavy stains, you can leave it on for up to an hour before brushing it off.
Q5: Can I use laundry detergent alone?
Standard detergent often isn’t strong enough to break down engine oil. Always pre-treat with a degreaser like dish soap first.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with engine oil stains on your favorite clothes may seem like a lost cause, but with the right approach, you can restore them to near-original condition. The key lies in acting quickly, using the right products, and avoiding heat until the stain is fully removed.
From DIY fixes using dish soap and baking soda to more industrial-strength solutions, knowing how to get engine oil out of clothes can save you time, money, and frustration. As clothing costs rise and sustainability becomes more important, taking steps to preserve your garments is both a smart and eco-friendly move.
