How to Remove Grease Stains from Clothes at Home

You’re enjoying a delicious meal when—oops!—a greasy splatter lands on your favorite shirt. No matter how careful you are, grease stains happen, and they’re notoriously stubborn. If not treated properly, they can set permanently, ruining your clothes. The right home cleaning techniques can save your garments. In this guide, we’ll cover proven methods, including using baking soda, dish soap, and other household staples. For tough stains, check out our guide on the best cleaning solutions for grease.

Key Takeaways

• Act fast—the sooner you treat the stain, the better.
• Dish soap and baking soda are the most effective for breaking down grease.
• Avoid heat until the stain is completely gone to prevent setting it.
• Test treatments on a hidden area first to avoid fabric damage.

1. Blot the Stain Immediately

When grease lands on fabric, blot—don’t rub—with a clean cloth or paper towel. Rubbing spreads the stain. Press gently to absorb excess oil. For dried stains, scrape off residue with a dull knife before treating. Pre-treating with cornstarch or talcum powder can help absorb grease while you prepare a cleaning solution.

2. Apply Dish Soap (Best for Fresh Stains)

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it ideal for stains. Follow these steps:

• Apply a few drops of liquid dish soap directly to the stain.
• Gently rub with your fingers or a soft brush.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
• Wash as usual, but avoid heat drying until the stain is gone.

3. Use Baking Soda Paste (For Set-In Stains)

For older stains, mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. The alkaline properties break down grease. Scrub gently, then rinse. For extra power, combine with hydrogen peroxide (test for colorfastness first).

4. Try White Vinegar (For Delicate Fabrics)

White vinegar is a natural degreaser. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, then dab onto the stain. Let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting and rinsing. This method works well for silk or wool, but avoid using it on acetate or rayon.

5. Launder with the Right Detergent

After pre-treating, wash the garment with a heavy-duty detergent in the hottest water safe for the fabric. Add ½ cup of borax for extra stain-fighting power. Avoid drying until you confirm the stain is gone—heat sets grease permanently.

6. Repeat if Necessary

If the stain persists, repeat the treatment before washing again. For tough stains, try a commercial degreaser or grease-fighting solutions designed for kitchens.

Summary: Best Methods for Grease Stain Removal

Final Thoughts

Grease stains don’t have to ruin your clothes. With quick action and the right techniques, you can restore fabrics to like-new condition. For more cleaning tips, explore our guide on kitchen floor solutions. Remember: never dry stained clothes until the grease is fully removed!