What is the best way to remove grease and oil stains from sneakers?

The best way to remove grease and oil stains from sneakers is to use an oil-based stain remover, work it into the fabric with an old toothbrush, rinse the stained area with cold water, sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the surface of the shoe, allow it to sit for at least thirty minutes, and vacuum it off. Finally, wash the sneaker in a washing machine with chlorine-free detergent and cold water.

How can I prevent grease and oil stains from appearing on my sneakers in the first place?

To prevent grease and oil stains from appearing on your sneakers, keep your shoes away from spills, grease, and other oils, clean your shoes regularly with a brush, stick to fabrics that are easier to clean, like canvas or nylon, and always was your hands before putting on your shoes.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Grease and oil > Sneakers

Eliminate Grease and Oil Stains from Sneakers in No Time!

Grease and oil stains can lead to a smelly, stained pair of sneakers. No need to worry though, as there are easy tips and tricks to get them looking as good as new in no time.

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Peter Blackwood

Steps for Removing Grease and Oil Stains from Sneakers:

Begin by preparing the sneaker. Remove any loose dirt or debris on the surface of the shoe, as well as any laces that may be obstructing your access to the stain.
Fully saturate the stain with an oil-based stain remover, such as a laundry pre-treater or spot cleaner. Allow the cleanser to sit on the stain for several minutes.
Using an old toothbrush, gently work the stain lifter into the fabric in circular motions, taking care to only scrub the stained area.
Rinse the stained area with cold water. To do this, submerge the greasy portion of the sneaker in a basin of cold water or use a sprayer to rinse it off.
To remove any remaining grease from shoe, sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch all over surface of the shoe. The absorbent substances will draw the grease out of fabric and into the powder.
Allow baking soda or cornstarch to sit on the surface of the shoe for at least thirty minutes. Once the powder is completely dry, use a vacuum cleaner to remove it.
When all of the grease is gone, wash the sneaker in a washing machine with chlorine-free detergent and cold water.
Allow the shoes to air dry. Do not put them in the dryer.

Prevention:

Keep your shoes away from spills, grease, and other oils.
Clean your shoes regularly with a brush.
If possible, try to stick to fabrics that are easier to clean, like canvas or nylon.
Wash your hands before putting on your shoes.

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Eliminate Grease and Oil Stains from Sneakers in No Time!

Steps for Removing Grease and Oil Stains from Sneakers:

Prevention:

Try Laundryheap - 24h laundry service with free delivery

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