How to Remove an Oil-Based Stain From White Cotton

Cotton Clothing and Fabric

• 1

  Press paper towels to the area to gently blot up fresh oil, but do not rub it, as this will only spread it around and make the stain bigger. If the stain is an older one, scrape away any solid residue with a plastic knife

• 2

  Lay the fabric flat in a cool, dry place, and sprinkle cornstarch over the stain. Leave the cornstarch on the area for at least two hours.

• 3

  Brush away the cornstarch with a soft-bristle brush and into the trash.

• 4

  Apply a liquid laundry detergent to the stain. Use a small brush such as a toothbrush to work the stain into the cloth.

• 5

  Leave the detergent on the stain for at least 20 minutes before laundering the fabric in the hottest water allowable for the garment or fabric. Check the manufacturer's instructions.

• 6

  Inspect the fabric when it comes out of the washing machine. If the stain is still there, repeat the entire process before placing it into the dryer.

Cotton Upholstery

• 7

  Press paper towels to the area to gently blot up fresh oil, but do not rub it, as this will only spread it around and make the stain bigger. If the stain is an older one, scrape away any solid residue with a plastic knife

• 8

  Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain, and leave it to sit for at least two hours.

• 9

  Suck up the cornstarch with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner.

• 10

  Mix powdered laundry detergent with warm water to form a thick paste.

• 11

  Apply the paste to the area with a cloth or sponge, and leave it for 20 to 30 minutes to harden.

• 12

  Scrape away the hardened detergent with a plastic utensil, and suck it up with the vacuum cleaner's brush attachment. Repeat the process if the stain remains.