Getting transmission oil out of clothes can be a bit tricky due to its thick and greasy nature, but with the right approach, you can often remove the stain successfully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle those stubborn stains.
Step 1: Remove Excess Oil
Before you begin treating the stain, it’s important to remove as much of the excess transmission oil as possible.
- Gently blot the stain with a paper towel or clean cloth to soak up any surface oil. Be careful not to rub, as this can spread the oil or push it deeper into the fabric fibers.
Step 2: Treat the Stain
After removing the excess oil, it’s time to treat the stain directly using a powerful degreaser or dish soap known to cut through grease.
- Apply a grease-fighting liquid dish soap directly to the stain, or use a specialized stain remover that’s designed to break down oils and grease.
- Using an old toothbrush or your fingers, gently work the dish soap into the stain in a circular motion. This helps penetrate the fabric fibers.
- Let the soap sit on the stain for at least 5-10 minutes to allow it to break down the oils.
Step 3: Rinse and Assess
Rinse the stained area with hot water to wash away the loosened oil particles. Hot water helps to dissolve and remove grease more effectively than cold water.
- Check the stain after rinsing to see if it appears to be lighter or if it’s been removed.
- If the stain is still visible, repeat the treatment as necessary before moving on to washing the garment.
Step 4: Pre-Treat if Needed
If the stain persists after the initial treatment, consider using a pre-wash stain remover and allow it to sit for the time recommended by the product’s instructions.
Step 5: Wash the Garment
Now that you’ve pre-treated the stain, you can wash the garment as you normally would.
- Wash the garment on the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric type, as indicated on the garment’s care label.
- Use a heavy-duty laundry detergent that’s designed to fight tough stains.
- If the garment is white or colorfast, you could also add a color-safe bleach to help remove the stain.
Step 6: Air Dry and Check the Stain
Once the washing cycle is complete, check the stained area before drying.
- Do not put the garment in the dryer until you are sure the stain is completely gone. The heat from the dryer can set the stain permanently.
- If the stain remains, do not dry the garment. Instead, repeat the treatment and washing process.
Step 7: Consider Professional Cleaning
If the stain is still stubborn after multiple treatments, you may need to seek professional cleaning. Dry cleaners have specialized solvents that might be more effective on tough stains like transmission oil.
Tips:
- Act quickly: The sooner you handle the stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Do not mix chemicals: Some household cleaners can react dangerously when combined. Stick to one method at a time.
- Always perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area before treating the stain.
- Wear gloves when handling cleaning chemicals, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Keep the workspace well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes from stain-removing products.
By following these steps and tips, you stand a good chance of getting transmission oil out of your clothes. However, keep in mind that some fabrics and stains may not be completely recoverable depending on the fabric type, the age of the stain, and the color of the material. Always read and follow your garment’s care instructions throughout the cleaning process to avoid damaging the fabric.