How to Remove Grease Stains from Clothes: The Complete Guide

Grease stains are among the toughest and most frustrating to remove. Whether they come from cooking, mechanics, or cosmetics, they seem impossible to get out. But there are natural, effective methods to tackle any grease stain.

Mistakes to Avoid

NEVER put a grease-stained garment in the washing machine without pretreatment. Hot water sets grease into fibers. Do not use a hair dryer on a fresh stain either: heat cooks the grease.

Method 1: Dish Soap

Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the fresh stain. Dish soap is formulated to dissolve grease. Gently rub with your fingers, let sit 10 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary. This method works in 80% of cases on fresh stains.

Method 2: Fuller’s Earth

Generously sprinkle the stain with fuller’s earth. This natural powder is a powerful absorbent. Let sit for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. Brush off the powder. The stain will have disappeared. Particularly effective on delicate fabrics like silk and linen.

Method 3: White Vinegar

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Soak a clean cloth in this solution and dab the stain. Vinegar dissolves the fatty acids causing the stain. Finish with a normal machine wash at 30 degrees C.