Olive oil stains are one of those things that always seem to happen at the worst time. Whether you’re cooking or eating, it only takes a second for a splash to ruin your favorite shirt. But don’t stress! Getting olive oil out of your clothes is easier than you think.
Act Fast
The key to getting rid of olive oil stains is speed. The sooner you deal with it, the better. First, grab a clean cloth or paper towel and blot the stain—don’t rub it. You just want to absorb the oil, not push it deeper into the fabric.
Common Household Items That Help
You probably have what you need already in your kitchen. No need to run to the store for fancy products. Here are a few things that work:
- Dish Soap: Yes, the same stuff you use to wash your dishes. Just apply a few drops directly to the stain, rub it in gently, and rinse with warm water.
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle it over the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. After that, just shake it off or vacuum it up.
- Cornstarch: This one works like baking soda. Sprinkle it on, wait, and then brush it off.
Simple Steps to Remove the Stain
If you catch the stain early, follow these simple steps:
- Blot the stain: Dab at it gently with a clean cloth to soak up the oil.
- Add some powder: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch onto the stain and leave it for about 10 minutes.
- Apply dish soap: Rub a little dish soap into the stain with your fingers or a soft brush.
- Rinse with warm water: After the soap, rinse the area with warm water.
- Wash as usual: Finally, wash the item as you normally would.
Preventing Future Stains
It’s always easier to avoid stains than to remove them. Here are a few tips to help you out:
- Wear an apron: It’ll save your clothes while you’re cooking.
- Use less oil: You don’t need a ton of oil to make your food taste good.
- Keep napkins close: If you’re eating, keep something nearby to clean up any spills.
Mistakes to Avoid
A few things can make olive oil stains harder to get rid of:
- Don’t rub the stain: Rubbing just spreads the oil. Dab, don’t rub.
- Avoid hot water: Hot water can set the stain, so stick with warm or cold water at first.
- Don’t let it sit too long: The longer you wait, the harder it is to remove.
That’s it! Now you’ve got a few easy ways to deal with those olive oil stains. Next time, you’ll be prepared and won’t have to stress about a little spill.