Slick Solutions: 12 Expert-Approved Tips for Banishing Oil Stains from Various Surfaces

Introduction

Oil stains are among the most difficult to remove, especially if they have had time to soak into the surface. Whether on clothes, sofas, carpets or wooden furniture, it is essential to act quickly and choose the right method to prevent the stain from becoming embedded. In this article we offer you 12 tips for cleaning an oil stain on different surfaces and also mention ecological and accessible alternatives.

1. Dishwashing liquid

This method works particularly well on clothing. Apply a few drops of dishwashing liquid directly to the stain and scrub gently with a clean cloth or soft toothbrush. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water. Repeat if necessary then machine wash normally.

2. Marseille soap

Lightly wet a piece of Marseille soap and rub it directly on the stain until a thick paste forms. Leave on for at least 30 minutes then rinse thoroughly with cold water before washing.

3. Talc

Generously sprinkle talcum powder (or baking soda) on the oil stain and leave it to act for several hours or even overnight. The talcum powder will absorb the oil and make it easier to remove. Then brush to remove the talcum powder and treat the stain with dishwashing liquid or Marseille soap before rinsing and machine washing.

4. Terre de Sommières

This natural clay is an excellent stain remover for greasy stains, especially on delicate or non-machine washable textiles. Sprinkle it generously on the stain, leave it on for at least 30 minutes then brush to remove the powder.

5. Hairspray

Spray hairspray directly onto the oil stain and leave it on for a few minutes. Then rub with a clean cloth or a soft toothbrush then rinse thoroughly with cold water before washing.

6. Baking soda

Sprinkle baking soda on the oil stain, rub lightly with a clean cloth or soft toothbrush then leave to sit for at least 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water then treat with dishwashing liquid or Marseille soap before washing.

7. White vinegar

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water then soak a clean cloth with this mixture. Dab the oil stain, being careful not to spread it further. Leave to act for a few minutes then rinse thoroughly with cold water before washing.

8. Alcohol at 70°

Soak a clean cloth with 70° alcohol and dab the oil stain without rubbing to avoid spreading it. Leave to act for a few minutes then treat with dishwashing liquid or Marseille soap before rinsing and machine washing.

9. Ammonia

Dilute a tablespoon of ammonia in a glass of warm water and apply this solution to the stain with a clean cloth or sponge. Leave it on for a few minutes, rinse thoroughly with cold water then machine wash.

10. Stain remover paste based on white clay

Mix white clay (or kaolin) with a little water to form a thick paste that you will apply directly to the stain. Let dry completely then brush to remove residue before treating the stain with dishwashing liquid or Marseille soap and washing in the washing machine.

The common mistake: using salt

Contrary to popular belief, salt is not effective in removing oil stains. It can even make the situation worse by fixing the oil in the textile fibers and making the stain more difficult to remove.

Conclusion

To get rid of an oil stain on clothing or any other surface, it is crucial to treat the stain quickly before putting the items in the washing machine. The tips mentioned above are all ecological and accessible solutions for cleaning an oil stain on different surfaces. Do not hesitate to test several methods if necessary and adapt your approach according to the type of support and the extent of the stain.