Master the techniques to remove cooking grease, motor oil, and stubborn oil-based stains from carpets, clothing, and kitchen surfaces. Professional methods that actually work!
Start Removing Grease StainsGrease and oil stains are among the most challenging to remove because they repel water and bond strongly with fabric fibers. Whether it's cooking oil splattered on your kitchen wall, motor oil tracked onto your carpet, or salad dressing dropped on your favorite shirt, these stains require specific techniques to break down the oil molecules.
After years of professional cleaning in South Florida kitchens and homes, we've perfected methods that consistently remove even set-in grease stains. The key is understanding that oil-based stains need different treatment than water-based stains - you can't just rinse them away.
Hot water will actually set grease and oil stains permanently by cooking the oils into the fibers. Always start with absorption techniques and room temperature solutions.
Tough grease stain? Our experts can help!
Grease stains require specific materials that can absorb oils and break down grease molecules. Here's what you'll need:
Keep cornstarch in your kitchen for immediate grease spill response. It absorbs fresh oil better than anything else and prevents the stain from spreading or setting deeper.
Follow this proven method for the best chance of complete grease stain removal. Each step builds on the previous one:
Don't wipe or rub! Instead, blot gently with paper towels to remove as much surface oil as possible. For fresh spills, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda generously over the entire stain area.
Wait time: Let the powder sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb the oil. You'll see it change color as it works.
Vacuum or brush away the powder gently. For clothing, shake it out outdoors. You should see that much of the oil has been absorbed into the powder.
Repeat if needed: For heavy stains, apply fresh powder and wait another 15 minutes before removing.
Apply a small amount of liquid dish soap directly to the stain. Use a soap specifically designed to cut grease (like Dawn or Joy). Work it in gently with your fingers or a soft brush.
Why dish soap? It's formulated to break down grease molecules and lift them from surfaces.
Allow the dish soap to sit on the stain for 10-15 minutes. This gives it time to break down the oil molecules and penetrate the fibers.
For stubborn stains, cover with plastic wrap to prevent the soap from drying out.
Rinse with warm (not hot) water. For carpets, blot with a damp cloth. For clothing, rinse thoroughly under running water. Check if the stain is gone before proceeding.
Important: Don't put clothing in the dryer until the stain is completely gone - heat will set any remaining oil.
If the stain persists, repeat the process or move to advanced techniques. Some old stains may need multiple treatments or professional-grade solutions.
Different types of oil and grease require slightly different approaches:
Some stains require professional equipment and expertise. Don't risk damaging your valuable items.
Contact Our Cleaning ExpertsWhen basic methods don't work, these professional techniques can save the day:
For fabric stains that won't budge:
Surprisingly effective for automotive stains:
For protein-based grease (like from meat):
Some situations require expert help:
When home methods fail, our professional-grade equipment and specialized solutions can often save what seems impossible.
Get Free Quote TodayPreventing grease stains is much easier than removing them:
Keep a grease emergency kit in your kitchen: cornstarch, dish soap, paper towels, and clean rags. Quick action prevents permanent stains and saves you money on professional cleaning.
When grease stains won't budge, our professional team has the equipment and expertise to handle even the toughest challenges. We've saved countless carpets, upholstery, and clothing items that seemed beyond hope.
