How do I remove grease and oil stains from my cocktail dress?

There are a few methods you can use depending on the type of material you have: detergent, vinegar and salt, and shampoo or dishwashing liquid.

What should I do if I'm afraid of discolouration?

It's always best to test any solution on a hidden part of the dress before applying it to the stain to avoid discolouration. If you're still too worried, then enlist the services of a dry cleaner who specialises in delicate fabrics.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Grease and oil > Cocktail dress

5 Easy Steps to Get Rid of Grease Stains on Your Cocktail Dress

Have an important occasion coming up but got a grease stain on your cocktail dress? Worry not! We have some tips that you can use to get rid of them without having to visit the dry cleaner.

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Luke Smith

Cleaning Grease and Oil Stains with Detergent

The first thing to do is to take off the excess grease or oil from the fabric with a paper towel
Apply detergent directly onto the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes
Dab the stained area lightly with a paper towel to remove the dishwashing liquid and the stain
Rinse the area with lukewarm water to remove the last traces of detergent

Cleaning Grease and Oil Stains with Vinegar and Salt

Sprinkle salt over the stain and pour vinegar on top
Mix the salt and vinegar together to form a paste
Leave the paste to sit on the stain until dry
Scrub the paste off with a clean, dry cloth, damp cloth or nylon brush
Rinse the area with warm water to remove the last traces of the paste

Cleaning Grease and Oil Stains with Shampoo or Dishwashing Liquid

Create a lather with a few drops of shampoo or dishwashing liquid and water
Gently rub foam over stain in circular motions
Rinse the area with lukewarm water to remove the last traces of the solution

Final Tips

Always test any of the solutions on a hidden part of the dress to make sure there will be no discolouration after the cleaning
If you are nervous about using any of these solutions then best thing to do is to find a dry cleaner who specialises in stains or delicate fabrics

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