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How to Clean Towels Stained by Naturally Oily Skin

Oily skin stains on your towels are a combination of grease-based and perspiration stains. Oil-based stains such as those caused by oily skin can be difficult to remove. Acrylic, polyester, nylon or permanent-press fabrics in particular hold onto greasy stains. However, most towels are sturdy enough to withstand vigorous pretreatment and laundering. The most effective solution is to treat oily stains promptly. Do not allow the stain to set. Always read the fabric-care label on your towels before laundering.

Things You'll Need

  • Ammonia
  • Pretreatment spray or stick for oil-based stains
  • Heavy-duty detergent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Mix one part ammonia to one part warm water. Apply the ammonia to the stain, rub in, and then rinse thoroughly.

    • 2

      Apply a petroleum-based pretreatment product and allow it to work for at least 30 minutes.

    • 3

      Use the maximum amount of heavy-duty detergent recommended by the manufacturer for your wash load.

    • 4

      Wash in the hottest water temperature allowed according to the fabric laundering instructions.

    • 5

      Check to be sure that the stain is gone before drying. Machine drying will set any leftover stains.

    • 6

      Wash again if the stain remains.