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How do you remove engine oil stains from clothes?

I was adding some oil to my car’s engine and accidentally spilled some on my shirt sleeve. My wife got me this shirt and I don’t want it to be ruined. How do you remove engine oil stains from clothes?

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Payton Ternus · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Oh no! I’m sorry to hear about your shirt, pesky oil and grease stains can require a little extra work to remove.
You’re in luck—follow these steps to remove engine oil stains from clothes:
  • Remove the excess oil. Try using a sharp-edged object to scrape off the oil, or soak the fabric in hot water and squeeze out the oil.
  • Use cornstarch. Cover the stain with cornstarch and let it sit for at least an hour to draw out the moisture. Other powders like baking soda will also work in a pinch.
  • Wash with stain remover. Apply dish soap to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and scrub the fabric with a brush before you throw it in the washing machine with laundry detergent.
  • Hire a pro. A professional laundromat may be able to help since they have more specialized tools at their disposal. If they can’t get the stain out, you may want to consider repurposing your shirt for yard work.
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