How do I pre-treat an oil stain?

To pre-treat an oil stain, dab a bit of liquid laundry detergent onto the stain and work it into the fabric in circular motions.

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How to Remove Scissor Oil Stains from Cargo Pants

Q: What's the best way to remove oil stains?

To remove oil stains, use a stain remover product specifically designed to tackle oil stains. Work the product into the stained area using gentle circular motions, and then let it sit for 10 minutes before washing in the washing machine on the cold setting.

Scrabble oil stains on your cargo pants can be difficult to remove. Fortunately, there are certain steps you can take to tackle these stains and get your pants looking as good as new.

Updated 03 Mar 2023

By Isabelle Trottier

Step 1: Pre-Treat the Stain with Laundry Detergent

The first step to cleaning any stain is to pre-treat it. Start by dabbing a bit of liquid laundry detergent onto the stain. Work the detergent into fabric using circular motions.

Step 2: Soak the Cargo Pants in Cold Water

Once you’ve treated the stain, soak cargo pants in cold water for at least 20 minutes. This will help loosen up stain and make it easier to remove.

Step 3: Use a Stain Removing Product

After soaking the pants, use a stain remover product specifically designed to remove oil stains. Work product into the stained area using gentle circular motions. Then let the product sit for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Wash the Pants in the Washing Machine

Once the stain removing product has had time to work, wash the pants in the washing machine on the cold setting. Don’t use hot water, since this can set the stain.

Step 5: Air-Dry Pants

Once you’ve washed the pants, air-dry them. Don’t put them in the dryer, as this could cause the stain to set in.

Tips & Tricks

Test products on a small inconspicuous area first: Before applying a stain removing product, make sure to test it on a small area of the pants first. This will ensure the product won't damage fabric.
Repeat the process if necessary: If the stain doesn't come out after one cleaning, repeat the process until it's gone.
Dab, don't rub: When treating stain, use light dabbing motions to work the detergent or stain remover into the fabric. Don't use too much pressure, as this may damage the fabric.

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