How To Remove Essential Oils Stain From Washable Fabrics

February 14, 2023

Essential oils are a popular addition to laundry routines due to their pleasant fragrances and potential health benefits. However, these oils can also leave behind unsightly stains on your clothes or other washable fabrics. If you've ever found yourself wondering how to remove essential oils stains from your favorite shirt or pillowcase, you're in luck. In this article, we'll provide you with some simple yet effective methods for getting rid of essential oils stains and restoring your fabrics to their pristine condition.

COLOR

Colorless to Light Yellow

APPEARANCE

These stains may appear as a greasy or oily mark on the fabric that could be transparent or slightly yellowish. They may also have a strong scent.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the oil from setting and spreading.

The Science Behind Essential Oils Stains

Essential oils contain concentrated, oily compounds that can easily penetrate fabric fibers and leave behind stubborn stains. The oily nature of essential oils causes them to cling to fabric fibers, making them difficult to remove. Additionally, the pigments present in some essential oils, such as those found in citrus oils, can cause discoloration of fabrics. When essential oils come into contact with clothing, the oils and pigments can transfer from the oil to the fabric, resulting in stains that are often difficult to remove.

essential oils

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Essential Oils Stains

  • Paper towels or clean cloth
  • Cold water
  • Dish soap or laundry detergent
  • Stain remover (commercial or homemade)
  • Washing machine

Step By Step Process To Remove Essential Oils Stains

  1. Blot the stain with a paper towel or clean cloth to remove as much of the excess oil as possible.
  2. Flush the stain with cold water, holding the fabric under the faucet or pouring water through the back of the stain.
  3. Apply dish soap or laundry detergent directly to the stain and gently rub the fabric together to work in the soap.
  4. Rinse the stain with cold water again to remove the soap.
  5. If the stain remains, apply a stain remover (commercial or homemade) to the affected area and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before washing.
  6. Wash the garment in the washing machine using the hottest water temperature that is safe for the fabric, and add detergent and bleach if appropriate for the fabric.
  7. Check the stain before drying the garment, as the heat from the dryer can set the stain. If the stain is still present, repeat the above steps before drying.
Note that it's important to check the care label of the garment to determine the appropriate water temperature for washing. Additionally, some fabrics may not be able to tolerate bleach or certain stain removers, so it's important to test these products on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before using them on the stain.

In Brief

Essential oil stains can be difficult to remove from clothes because the oily compounds can penetrate fabric fibers and cling to them. To remove essential oil stains, you'll need to blot the stain, flush with cold water, apply detergent or dish soap, rinse, and possibly use a stain remover before washing in the hottest water temperature appropriate for the fabric. Always check the care label and test products on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first.

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