Stains can be really annoying to deal with, especially as they can happen at any time, but some can be tough to remove. Cleaning fan and TikTok creator Chantel Mila revealed how she seamlessly removes oil stains with two household products, without the need for harsh chemicals.
In a recent video, Chantel revealed five different techniques for various types of stains. One of the methods helps to remove oil-based stains, which can be incredibly tricky to remove. Oil stains are hard to remove because oil repels water and is not water-soluble, meaning water-based cleaners can’t break it down and wash it away. This is what you’ll need to do.
Specifically for oil-based stains, there’s only two household items you’ll need. If your regular wash cycle isn’t doing the job, turn your attention to your kitchen cupboards.
For spot treat, cover the oil stains with a paste made from washing up liquid and baking soda. These ingredients can either be made into a paste and then applied, or applied by adding the washing up liquid directly to the stain first and then covered liberally with the baking soda.
To make sure the mixture doesn’t just sit on the surface of the clothes, you can work the solution into the stain with a small bristled brush, like a toothbrush. Wait for 15 minutes to allow the solution to soak in and draw out the excess oil. Follow by washing the garment on its usual cycle.
This technique will help remove tough stains like oil as baking soda acts as an absorbent. This means that when it’s applied to oil stains, it soaks up the oil and draws it out of the fabric.
By using both washing up liquid and baking soda, you get both the benefits of absorbing the grease and cutting through it. Washing up liquid helps to break down tough oil stains, loosening it before washing.
Experts at cleaning product company Tide urged anyone dealing with oil stains to act quickly. If there is any excess oil, it should be dabbed with a piece of kitchen roll before attempting to clean off.
Tide noted: “There are many common household items that work great when dealing with oil stains on clothing. Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent, clear dish soaps, white vinegar, and warm water can all work well at breaking down and lifting even the most stubborn oil stains.”
However, be careful when using the hack on dark or coloured clothes. Baking soda has the potential to fade the material.
This can happen when baking soda is applied to sensitive fabrics or clothes with pH-sensitive dyes. Baking soda’s high pH level can damage protein-based fibres like wool, cashmere, and silk, and may also cause some dyes to fade. Although baking soda isn’t a bleach, it can have a bleaching effect on coloured fabrics, potentially leading to discolouration.