What do I need to clean grease and oil stains from tartan?

You will need a white cloth or paper towels, dish soap, isopropyl alcohol, laundry detergent, and oxygenated bleach. Vinegar is optional.

How do I remove a grease or oil stain from tartan?

Start by blotting the stain with a white cloth or paper towel, then apply a mixture of dish soap and water to the area. Treat the stain with isopropyl alcohol and once it has been removed, launder the fabric as usual.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Grease and oil > Tartan

Get Rid of Grease Stains from Tartan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tartan fabric is a stylish materials for clothing and accessories, but it can be tricky to keep clean. Grease and oil stains can be especially stubborn and tough to remove if not treated properly. Learn how to clean grease and oil stains from tartan with this step-by-step guide.

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Isabelle Trottier

What You Need

White cloth or paper towels
Dish soap
Isopropyl alcohol
Laundry detergent
Oxygenated bleach
Vinegar (optional)

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Start by blotting the stain with a white cloth or paper towel. Blot from outside moving in towards the center of the stain. Do not rub or scrub the stain as this can cause the grease or oil to spread or get ground in even further.

Step 2: Apply Soap to the Stain

Mix a few drops of dish soap with a few tablespoons of lukewarm water. Dab the soapy mixture onto the stain and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Blot again with a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture.

Step 3: Treat with Isopropyl Alcohol

Once the soap has been applied, you can treat the stain with isopropyl alcohol. Mix a teaspoon of alcohol with a tablespoon of lukewarm water and dab onto the stain. Allow the mixture to sit for several minutes before blotting with a clean cloth until the stain is gone.

Step 4: Launder the Fabric

Once the stain has been removed, you should launder the fabric as usual. Use a laundry detergent that is specifically formulated for delicate fabrics, such as a wool-safe or tartan-safe detergent. If stain is particularly stubborn, you can add a scoop of oxygenated bleach to the wash cycle.

Additional Tips

If stain remains after Steps 1-4, try applying a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to area and letting it sit for an hour before laundering.
Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of the fabric before using.
Do not put tartan fabric in the dryer until all stains have been successfully removed.

Try Laundryheap - 24h laundry service with free delivery

Never do laundry again. Save time for things you ❤️

Book now

WikiLaundry