How can I remove a grease or oil stain?

To remove grease or oil stains from a t-shirt, pre-treat the stained area with a grease-fighting dish soap or laundry detergent. Let it sit for 15 minutes before washing the garment in hot water with a strong detergent. Check the stain after washing and, if necessary, repeat the process until it is gone.

Should I dry the t-shirt in the dryer?

For best results, it's recommended to air-dry the t-shirt instead of using a dryer.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Grease and oil > T-shirt

How to Get Grease and Oil Stains Out of Your Favorite T-Shirt

It's inevitable that your favorite t-shirt is bound to have a grease or oil stain eventually. Most people think that throwing the garment in wash will be enough, but that doesn't always do the trick. Read on to learn how you can clean up grease and oil stains on a t-shirt and keep it looking as good as new!

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Isabelle Trottier

Step One: Pre-Treat Stain

Handling a grease or oil stain is a lot easier if you address it right away. As soon as you notice stain, take some paper towels or a clean cloth and gently blot the area to remove as much of the stain as possible. Don't rub or scrub the area, as this can cause the mark to spread.

Step Two: Apply Detergent

Use a grease-fighting dish soap or laundry detergent to pre-treat the stain. Pour some of the detergent onto the stained area and gently massage the fabric to make sure the detergent penetrates the fibers. Once you've done that, let the fabric sit for about 15 minutes.

Step Three: Wash Garment

Once fabric has been pre-treated, it's time to throw the t-shirt in the wash. Make sure to use hot water when washing the garment, as this will help to break up stain more effectively. You should also use a strong detergent such as a grease-fighting dishwashing liquid.

Step Four: Check the Stain

After you've washed the t-shirt, check to see if the stain is still visible. If it is, repeat the process until the stain is gone. You may need to use a stain remover to get rid of any stubborn oil or grease marks.

Step Five: Dry the Garment

Once stain is gone, you can dry the t-shirt in the dryer or hang it up to air dry. For best results, it's recommended to air dry the garment rather than using a dryer.

With these simple steps, you can easily clean up even toughest grease and oil stains from your favorite t-shirts and keep them looking good as new!

Try Laundryheap - 24h laundry service with free delivery

Never do laundry again. Save time for things you ❤️

Book now

WikiLaundry