Oil stains are the bane of every laundry enthusiast’s existence. Whether it’s from a delicious pasta dinner or a simple kitchen mishap, these stains seem to find their way onto our favorite clothes, leaving us frustrated and often feeling defeated. Over the years, I’ve tried countless remedies, from commercial stain removers to DIY concoctions, but nothing seemed to work as effortlessly as a trick my mom taught me.

My mom, a master of all things domestic, has a knack for finding simple solutions to complex problems. When she first shared her oil stain removal hack with me, I was skeptical. But after several successful attempts, I became a believer. This article will guide you through this zero-effort method that has saved many of my beloved garments.

1. The Night My Favorite Shirt Was Saved

I’ll never forget the night I accidentally dripped olive oil onto my favorite white linen shirt. Panic set in as I watched the oil spread, creating a dark, unsightly patch. Desperate, I called my mom for advice. She calmly instructed me to grab some cornstarch from the pantry. ‘Just sprinkle it on and let it sit,’ she said. Skeptical but hopeful, I followed her instructions, covering the stain completely with about a tablespoon of cornstarch and leaving it overnight.

The next morning, I was astounded. The cornstarch had absorbed the majority of the oil, and after a quick wash, the stain was gone. My shirt was saved, and I was convinced of the magic of this simple trick.

2. Why Oil Stains Are So Hard To Remove

Oil stains are notoriously difficult to remove because they are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. This characteristic makes it challenging for water-based cleaning solutions to penetrate and break down the oil molecules. Traditional laundry detergents often struggle with oil because their formulas are not specifically designed to tackle such stubborn, greasy residues.

Moreover, if not treated promptly, oil stains can set into fibers, especially when exposed to heat, either from body heat or from a dryer. This setting process makes the stains even more entrenched, requiring specialized treatments to remove.

3. The Zero-Effort Trick My Mom Swears By

The trick my mom swears by involves using a common household item: cornstarch. Cornstarch is highly absorbent, making it perfect for drawing oil out of fabric fibers. The beauty of this method is its simplicity and minimal effort required. All you need to do is apply the cornstarch generously over the oil stain and let it sit. The longer you leave it, the more oil it absorbs, often working overnight.

This method doesn’t require any scrubbing or fancy treatments, just a bit of patience and the willingness to let the cornstarch do its job. It’s an excellent example of how sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.

4. What You Need To Have On Hand

To use this trick, you’ll need just a few items: cornstarch, a spoon for application, and a soft brush or cloth for removal. Optionally, you can use a paper towel to blot any excess oil before applying the cornstarch, which can help speed up the process.

It’s also helpful to have a good quality laundry detergent on hand for washing the garment after the cornstarch has done its work. This will ensure any remaining residue is thoroughly cleaned.

5. Step-By-Step: How To Use The Trick On Fresh Stains

1. Blot the excess oil: Use a paper towel to gently blot and absorb as much of the oil as possible. Be careful not to rub, as this can spread the stain.

2. Apply cornstarch: Generously sprinkle cornstarch over the stain, covering it completely. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum absorption.

3. Brush off the cornstarch: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove the cornstarch from the fabric. You should see that a significant amount of the oil has been absorbed.

4. Wash as usual: Launder the garment according to its care label instructions. The stain should be significantly reduced or completely gone.

6. How To Rescue Old, Set-In Oil Stains

Old, set-in stains require a bit more effort but can still be tackled with patience. First, heat can help re-liquefy the oil, making it easier to remove. Lay the garment on a flat surface and use a hairdryer to gently warm the stain. Be careful not to overheat, as this can damage the fabric.

Once warmed, apply a generous amount of cornstarch and let it sit overnight. In the morning, brush off the cornstarch and check the stain. If any residue remains, repeat the process or use a small amount of liquid dish soap directly on the stain, then launder as usual.

7. The Science Behind Why This Hack Works

Cornstarch is a polysaccharide composed of carbohydrate polymers. These polymers have a unique ability to absorb oils and fats. When applied to an oil stain, the cornstarch particles penetrate the fabric and latch onto the oil molecules. Over time, the cornstarch draws these molecules out, effectively lifting the stain from the fabric fibers.

This absorption process is what makes cornstarch so effective, as it essentially acts like a sponge, soaking up the oil without the need for water or harsh chemicals.

8. Common Mistakes That Make Oil Stains Worse

One common mistake is rubbing the stain, which can spread the oil further into the fabric fibers. Instead of blotting, people often instinctively scrub, thinking it will help remove the stain, but it often does the opposite.

Another mistake is applying heat too soon. Heat can set the stain deeper into the fabric, making it more challenging to remove. Always treat the stain first before washing or drying the garment.

9. Fabrics And Colors This Trick Works Best On

This cornstarch trick works best on natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool. These materials have a looser weave, allowing the cornstarch to penetrate the fibers more effectively.

In terms of color, the method is safe for most fabrics, but always test a small, inconspicuous area first. While cornstarch is unlikely to cause discoloration, it’s always wise to ensure that the fabric’s colorfastness is intact.

10. When This Hack Won’t Work And What To Try Instead

There are instances where this hack might not be effective, such as on synthetic fabrics with tight weaves like polyester and nylon. In such cases, using a pre-treatment stain remover specifically designed for oil stains can be more effective.

If the stain persists, consider consulting a professional cleaner, especially for delicate or expensive items. They have access to industrial-strength solutions that can tackle even the most stubborn stains.

11. How To Prevent Oil Stains In The First Place

Preventing oil stains starts with being mindful in the kitchen. Wearing an apron while cooking can provide a protective barrier against accidental splashes. Also, consider using a splatter screen when frying foods.

For dining, be cautious with oily foods and use napkins liberally. If a spill occurs, address it immediately by blotting and applying cornstarch as soon as possible to prevent the oil from setting into the fabric.