What is the best way to remove a grease or oil stain from formalwear?

The best way to remove a grease or oil stain from formalwear is to first try lemon juice or white vinegar, then dish soap and shaving cream, then a commercial stain remover. After treating the stain, launder the garment as usual.

How do I prevent grease or oil stains on my formalwear?

The best way to prevent grease and oil stains on formalwear is to avoid eating greasy food and carrying items that could leave oil stains on the fabric. If you do find a stain, act quickly to reduce the amount of time it has to set in.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Grease and oil > Formalwear

How to Get Grease & Oil Stains Out of Your Formalwear Instantly!

Formalwear looks its best when it’s clean and unwrinkled. That’s why it’s so important to know how to get rid of pesky grease and oil stains that can ruin even the most carefully chosen outfit. We’ve got the tips and tricks you need to get your formalwear looking its best in no time.

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Lemon Juice or White Vinegar

These two kitchen staples are great for getting rid of grease and oil stains from formalwear due to their acidic nature. Start by applying either lemon juice or white vinegar directly onto the affected area. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. For added stain-fighting power, mix equal parts of lemon juice or white vinegar with some baking soda before applying.

Dish Soap & Shaving Cream

Combine a squirt of dish soap with a dollop of shaving cream and mix them together. Apply mixture to the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, rub it into the fabric with a soft cloth before rinsing with cold water. This technique should be repeated until the stain is completely gone.

Commercial Stain Removers

If other methods have failed to do trick, it’s time to reach for a commercial stain remover. Spot treat the spot with the product and let it sit for a few minutes before laundering as usual. Commercial stain removers are powerful, but they can also be harsh on fabrics, so use them sparingly.

Launder as Usual

Once stain has been removed, launder the garment according to the care instructions. This is especially important if the spot was treated with commercial stain remover, since it may leave residue behind if not properly washed out.

Prevention is Key

It’s always better to prevent a stain than to spend time trying to get one out. When wearing formalwear, avoid eating greasy foods and carrying heavy items that could leave oil marks on the fabric. If you do end up with a stain, act quickly to reduce amount of time it has to set in.

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