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Article: How to Get Oil Stain Out of Sweatshirt?

How to Get Oil Stain Out of Sweatshirt

How to Get Oil Stain Out of Sweatshirt?

Oil stains are the ultimate betrayal after a great meal or a quick fix under the hood. If you’ve ever found yourself Googling how to get oil stain out of sweatshirt fabric just minutes after dinner, you’re not alone. These stains are sneaky, stubborn, and show up at the worst times, usually on your favorite hoodie. 

But here’s the good news, you can totally save that stained sweatshirt. Whether it’s fresh olive oil from cooking, a grease spot from lunch, or a mystery stain you just noticed after laundry day, there are simple tricks to fix it. This post will walk you through everything step-by-step—from fast fixes to deeper treatments for those old, set-in stains. 

Understand the Nature of an Oil-Based Stain 

Before you attack the stain, it helps you to understand what you're dealing with. Unlike water-based stains, oil-based stains don’t dissolve in water. They just sit there clinging to the fibers of your clothing like they paid rent.  

That’s why oil stains are some of the most frustrating marks to deal with on clothes, especially soft fabrics like sweatshirts. 

So, the trick is to break down the oil before washing. The good news? You probably already have a few key stain-fighting tools right in your kitchen or laundry room. 

Act Fast: First Steps for a Fresh Oil Stain 

The moment that oil lands on your sweatshirt, you’re on the clock. But don’t panic—here’s what to do: 

First Steps for a Fresh Oil Stain

  1. Blot, don’t rub. Grab a paper towel, napkin, or even a clean cloth. Press gently to absorb the excess oil. Rubbing will only push the oil deeper into the fibers. 

  1. Powder up. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch generously over the stain. This helps pull the oil out of the fabric. 

  1. Let it sit. Give it for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, scrape it off gently with a spoon or old toothbrush. 

  1. Dish soap time. Add a drop of dish soap (like Dawn or any degreasing one) directly onto the stain. Gently rub it using your fingers or a soft brush. 

  1. Wash and check. Toss it into the wash on the warmest setting the fabric can handle. 

This is your best shot at getting oil stains out of clothes before they set. Think of it like first aid for your sweatshirt! 

Using Dish Soap: The Unsung Hero 

Want to know a secret? Dish soap is a miracle-worker when it comes to grease. It’s designed to cut through oil on dirty dishes—so why not use it to tackle an oil stain on clothes? 

Here’s how to do it right: 

  • Take a drop of a strong dish soap (like Dawn). 

  • Apply it directly to the stain and gently massage it in. 

  • Let it sit for 15–30 minutes so it can do its magic. 

  • Rinse with warm water and toss the sweatshirt in the wash. 

This method is super effective for both new and slightly old stains. If the stain’s stubborn, you can repeat this trick before giving up. Sometimes, it just takes one rounder to remove oil stains from clothes completely. 

Try Baking Soda or Cornstarch for Set-In Stains 

If you're dealing with a stain that's already had time to settle—or maybe you didn't notice it until laundry day—don’t worry. You’re not out of luck. 

Baking soda or cornstarch can be lifesavers when trying to get oil stain out of sweatshirt material that’s already been worn and washed. Here's the trick: 

  • Cover the stain with a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch. 

  • Let it sit overnight to draw out the oil. 

  • In the morning, brush off the powder gently. 

  • Then hit the area with a drop of dish soap and rub it in. 

  • Wash on a warm or hot cycle (as hot as the fabric allows). 

This combo works especially well on older, darker oil based stains that have already survived a wash cycle or two. Think of it as giving your hoodie a deep detox. 

Degreaser Spray or Oil Stain Remover: Worth It? 

Sometimes, DIY methods aren’t enough—especially if your stain has been around the block. That’s where a commercial oil stain remover can really shine. 

Oil Stain Remover

These are formulated to break down tough, greasy stains without damaging the fabric. Look for products that specifically say they’re safe for removing oil stains from clothes—bonus points if they mention “grease” or “cooking oil” on the label. 

A few favorites: 

  • Zout Laundry Stain Remover – Great for food and kitchen grease. 

  • Grandma’s Secret Spot RemoverOld school, but it works! 

  • Carbona Stain Devils #5 – Made just for grease and oil. 

Spray or dab the product on, let it sit for a few minutes, then wash as normal. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to get oil stain out of sweatshirt fabric with a little pro help. 

Laundry Tips to Avoid Setting the Stain 

Here’s how to avoid that trap: 

  • Always air dry after treating a stain. Check to see if it’s gone before using the dryer. 

  • If it’s still there, treat the spot again and re-wash it. 

  • Don’t iron the area either—same heat issue. 

Taking this one small step will help preserve your stained hoodie and give your stain treatment a real chance to work. 

Dealing with Old or Washed-In Oil Stains 

Here’s a heavy-duty method: 

  1. Make a paste using baking soda and dish soap. 

  1. Apply it directly to the stain. 

  1. Let it sit for several hours (or even overnight). 

  1. Scrub gently with a toothbrush. 

  1. Rinse, then wash on the hottest safe setting. 

You may need to repeat this process more than once, but many people have had success saving a stained sweatshirt they thought was ruined. Patience pays off here. 

Conclusion  

Oil stains might seem like a sweatshirt’s worst enemy, but with the right steps and a little patience, they don’t have to be permanent. Whether it’s dish soap, baking soda, or a pre-treatment solution, acting fast and treating the stain correctly can help restore your favorite piece to its former glory. Don't give up on your sweatshirt—give it a second chance. 

At Ican Clothing, we believe your story is your strength. No matter where you come from or what you’ve faced, you have the power to rise—and your clothing should reflect that. Our collection is crafted with intention, blending bold design with deep meaning so you can wear your purpose with pride and stay connected to your roots. 

Visit us and explore now discover styles that speak to your journey. 

FAQs 

Q: How to get oil stain out of grey sweatshirt? 

Grey sweatshirts can be tricky since stains are more visible. Use the same method—blot, powder, dish soap—but avoid anything that might lighten the fabric too much. A targeted oil stain remover for colored clothes is a smart pick. 

Q: How to get oil stain out of sweatshirt after washing? 

Even if it’s already been washed, you can still save it. Use baking soda or cornstarch first, then follow with dish soap. Rinse and wash It may take a couple of rounds to fully get oil stain out of sweatshirt fabric, but it’s doable. 

Q: How to get cooking oil stain out of sweatshirt? 

Blot fast, powder it up, and hit it with dish soap. The sooner you act, the better. For heavier oils like frying oil, you may need to repeat the dish soap treatment before washing. 

Q: How to get olive oil stain out of sweatshirt? 

Olive oil is rich and tends to seep in fast. Use baking soda or chalk to absorb the extra oil. Then treat with dish soap and wash in warm water. It might take two tries, but you can usually get that oil stain out of sweatshirt fabric. 

Q: How to get old oil stain out of sweatshirt? 

Old stains need extra love. Make a thick paste of baking soda and dish soap, apply it generously, and let it sit overnight. Then scrub and wash. Repeat as needed—many people are surprised at how well this works. 

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