Coconut oil is a fantastic natural product used in cooking, skincare, and haircare. But when it ends up on your clothes, it can leave stubborn stains that seem impossible to remove. Don’t worry! With the right approach, you can get coconut oil out of clothes effectively and keep your favorite outfits looking fresh.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle those greasy coconut oil stains with easy household ingredients and a bit of patience.
Step 1: Act Quickly and Remove Excess Oil
The sooner you treat the stain, the better your chances of removing it completely.
– Use a dull knife, spoon, or the edge of a credit card to gently lift off any solid or excess coconut oil from the fabric.
– Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread the oil and make it harder to remove.
– Blot the area with a clean white paper towel or cloth to soak up as much oil as possible without smearing it further.
Step 2: Absorb the Oil with Baking Soda or Cornstarch
Next, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda, cornstarch, or talcum powder over the stain.
– These powders work by absorbing the oil from the fabric fibers.
– Let the powder sit on the stain for at least 15 to 30 minutes. For larger or older stains, you can leave it for up to an hour.
– You’ll notice the powder clumping as it absorbs the oil.
– Afterward, brush off the powder gently with a soft-bristled brush or shake it off.
Step 3: Pretreat the Stain with Dish Soap or Stain Remover
Coconut oil is greasy, so using a grease-fighting dish soap is very effective.
– Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap directly onto the stained area.
– Gently rub it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft toothbrush in circular motions.
– Let it sit for 10 to 30 minutes to break down the oil molecules.
– Alternatively, you can use an enzyme-based stain remover or commercial products like Oxi-Clean Max Force, Zout, or Woolite for tougher stains.
Step 4: Wash the Garment Properly
– Wash the clothing in the hottest water safe for the fabric according to the care label.
– Use your regular laundry detergent along with the pretreatment.
– For synthetic fabrics that cannot tolerate hot water, you can pour hot water directly onto the stained area before washing in warm or cold water.
Step 5: Check Before You Dry
– After washing, inspect the stained area carefully.
– If the stain remains, do not put the garment in the dryer. Heat from the dryer can set the oil stain permanently.
– Instead, repeat the pretreatment and washing steps until the stain is gone.
– Air dry the clothing to avoid setting any residual oil.
Bonus Tips for Tough or Set-In Stains
– For older or stubborn stains, you can create a DIY paste by mixing hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. Apply it to the stain, let it dry for a few hours, then wash as usual.
– Rubbing alcohol can also help break down coconut oil stains. Dab a bit on the stain, gently scrub, rinse, then follow up with dish soap treatment.
– Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of your garment first to avoid damage or discoloration.
How to Remove Coconut Oil from Different Fabrics
– Cotton: Absorbs oil quickly, so act fast. Use dish soap and soaking in hot water for best results.
– Delicates: Use gentle stain removers and cold water washing. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
– Synthetics: Pretreat and rinse with hot water poured directly on the stain before washing.
– Dry Clean Only: Take the garment to a professional cleaner and point out the coconut oil stain.
Coconut oil stains can be tricky, but with these simple steps, you can remove them and keep your clothes looking great. Remember, quick action and the right cleaning agents are your best friends!
Coconut oil stains don’t have to ruin your clothes. With a little care and patience, you can easily lift those oily marks and enjoy your favorite garments again.