Final answer:
To remove motor oil from clothes, blot the excess oil, apply liquid dish soap or laundry detergent, rub the stain, let it sit, rinse with hot water, and launder using the hottest safe water setting. Repeat if necessary, or use heavy-duty solutions for tougher stains.
Step-by-step explanation:
- To remove motor oil from clothes, it's important to act quickly and not wash and dry the clothing as normal until the oil is fully removed. Begin by blotting away any excess oil with a paper towel, being careful not to spread the stain.
- Then, apply a liquid dish soap or laundry detergent directly onto the stain and gently rub it in with an old toothbrush or your fingers.
- Next, let the detergent sit on the stain for at least 5 minutes or up to an hour for more set-in stains. Afterwards, rinse the stained area with hot water to remove as much of the oil as possible.
- Launder the garment using the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric, and check the garment before drying it. If the stain is still present, repeat the treatment as necessary.
- For persistent or larger stains, you may need a more heavy-duty solution, such as an engine degreaser or a stain remover formulated for grease stains; always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products. If the garment is delicate or you're unsure about the treatment, consider taking it to a professional dry cleaner.