Oil stains are a problem you likely know well: a faint ring on your shirt or a dark patch on your jeans. While they may seem small at first, anyone who’s tried washing one out knows the struggle. Unlike dirt or sauce, oil sinks in fast, leaving behind a subtle mark that only gets harder to remove over time.
When cooking with olive oil, butter, or salad dressing, knowing how to get oil stains out of fabrics is essential. And it’s not just food; cosmetics, lotions, and even natural body oils can leave fabric stained.
However, with the right approach and the best oil stain remover for clothes, you don’t have to live with permanent discoloration. Zout® Laundry Stain Remover uses enzyme-powered precision to take the stress out of stain care, especially for getting rid of oil stains on clothes.
Why Oil Stains Are Different From Other Stains
Oil-based stains create a unique challenge because they don’t mix with water. When you rinse or wash an oil-stained shirt without pre-treating it, the oil often spreads or binds deeper into the fabric, especially once exposed to heat. That’s why quick action and the right pre-treatment are key.
Some of the most common oil stain sources include:
- Olive oil and vegetable oil from cooking
- Butter, margarine, or ghee
- Greasy salad dressings and sauces
- Moisturizers, sunscreens, and body oils
- Lip balms or makeup products
- Hair products and conditioners
Many of these stains are so subtle you might not notice them until they’ve dried, when they become more difficult to remove.
The Zout Difference: How to Get Oil Stains Out of Fabric
Zout’s stain-fighting power comes from its triple-enzyme formula, which includes the oil-targeting enzyme lipase. Lipase breaks down oily substances at the molecular level, helping lift even dried or set-in oil stains from fibers like cotton, linen, rayon, and synthetics.
If you’re wondering how to remove oil stains from fabric without damage, here’s your step-by-step method using Zout:
How to Remove Oil Stains from Clothing
Step 1: Absorb Any Surface Oil
If the oil stain is still fresh, lightly press a napkin or clean paper towel against the fabric to absorb surface oil.
Step 2: Pre-Treat with Zout
Spray Zout directly on the oil stain, making sure the area is thoroughly covered. Let it soak in for at least 5 minutes, allowing longer soaking time for older stains. The lipase enzyme will break apart the oil while keeping fabric colors safe.
Step 3: Wash with Warm Water
Check the care label. If your clothing can handle it, wash the item using warm or hot water, which helps emulsify oils. Use your regular detergent, but avoid fabric softener because it can interfere with stain removal and lock in residue.
For Set-In Oil Stains and Tougher Fabrics
If you’re dealing with work uniforms, mechanic clothing, or fabrics that have already been washed and dried, Zout can still get oil stains out of clothing. For an extra boost on heavy-duty fabrics, follow up with OUT® ProWash® Workwear Odor Eliminator Detergent. Its deep-cleaning formula penetrates thick weaves and built-up residue, tackling both stubborn odors.
How to Get Oil Stains Out of White Clothes
Oil stains on white clothes can be especially noticeable, but with the right approach, you can remove them without damaging the fabric’s brightness. Apply Zout directly to the stain, let it sit, and then wash the garment in cold water with a detergent safe for whites. This process helps lift the oil while keeping the fabric looking clean and fresh. Always follow the clothing’s care label for best results.
Quick Tips for Getting Oil Stains Out of Shirts
- Don’t wait: Act as soon as possible for best results
- Use enzymes: Look for oil stain removers that contain lipase
- Blot, don’t rub: Rubbing spreads oil and damages fabric fibers
Reach for Zout to Beat Kitchen Grease
From how to get olive oil stains out of clothes to removing oily sunscreen from collars and cuffs, Zout gives you the tools to handle stains with confidence. With a formula specifically engineered for getting oil stains out of fabric, Zout is the best oil stain remover for when life gets messy. Add it to your laundry routine and oil stains won’t stand a chance.
To learn more or shop online, visit the Zout product page or keep an eye out for Zout at retailers near you.
