The Ultimate Guide to Removing Oil Stains from Carpet and Upholstery: Step-by-Step Instructions and Expert Tips

by Keira April 1, 2022

written by Keira April 1, 2022

Ultimate Guide to Removing Oil Stains from Carpet and Upholstery

Oil stains are a common household problem, but they don’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools and techniques, you can remove even the toughest oil stains from carpet and upholstery.

Materials You’ll Need

Dull knife or old credit card
Soft-bristle brush
Vacuum cleaner
White cloths
Paper towels
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cornstarch or talcum powder
Ammonia
Dishwashing liquid with grease cutter
Commercial carpet stain remover (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove Oily Solids

Use a dull knife or old credit card to carefully lift away any solid oil, such as butter or pizza, from the carpet fibers.
Avoid rubbing the stain, as this will push the oil deeper into the carpet and make the stain larger.
Blot the stain with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.

2. Powder and Vacuum

Sprinkle the stain liberally with cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the oil.
Work the powder into the carpet with a soft-bristle brush.
Allow the powder to sit on the stain for at least 15 minutes, but up to an hour is better.
Vacuum to remove the powder.

3. Treat the Stain with a Stain Remover (Optional)

If the stain persists, you can use a commercial carpet stain remover that contains enzymes that break down oil molecules.
Follow the product label directions for application.
Allow the freshly-cleaned area to air-dry away from direct heat.
Vacuum to lift the fibers.

4. Create a Homemade Cleaning Solution

If you don’t have a carpet cleaning product, you can make a cleaning solution yourself.
Mix 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with a grease cutter in 2 cups of hot water in a small bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of household ammonia.

5. Treat the Stain with the Homemade Solution

Work from the outside edges toward the center of the stain to prevent it from becoming larger.
Gently scrub the stain with a soft-bristle brush dipped in the cleaning solution, then blot with a dry paper towel until the stain is removed.

6. Rinse and Repeat

Rinse the area with a cloth dipped in plain water to completely remove any soapy residue.
Blot dry with a clean cloth.
Repeat the cleaning steps until no more stain remains.

7. Air-Dry and Vacuum

Allow the area to air-dry away from direct heat.
Vacuum to lift any matted fibers.

Tips for Removing Oil Stains on Carpet

Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing pushes the oil deeper into the carpet fibers and can make the stain larger.
Treat oil stains as soon as possible. The longer the stain sits, the harder it will be to remove.
Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fibers.
Use a fan or open windows to ventilate the area while cleaning to prevent the ammonia fumes from becoming overwhelming.
If the stain is large or persistent, it’s best to call a professional carpet cleaner.

Additional Tips for Removing Oil Stains from Upholstery

The same cleaning techniques and products recommended for carpet can be used to remove oil stains from upholstery.
Be careful not to over-wet the fabric, as excess moisture can cause mildew to form.
If the upholstery is delicate, such as silk, it’s best to call a professional upholstery cleaner.

How to Remove Old Oil Stains from Carpet

Old oil stains can be more difficult to remove, but it’s not impossible.
Try using a commercial carpet stain remover specifically designed for old stains.
You can also try using a homemade solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the stain and allow it to sit for several hours before blotting it up.
If the stain persists, you may need to call a professional carpet cleaner.

How to Remove Oil Stains from Carpet with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural absorbent that can help to remove oil stains from carpet.
Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the stain and allow it to sit for several hours.
Vacuum up the baking soda and blot the stain with a damp cloth.
Repeat the process until the stain is removed.

How to Remove Oil Stains from Carpet with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that can help to lighten oil stains.
Test the hydrogen peroxide on an inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fibers.
Apply the hydrogen peroxide to the stain and allow it to sit for several hours.
Blot up the hydrogen peroxide and rinse the area with water.
Repeat the process until the stain is removed.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.