How to Remove Olive Oil Stains: The Complete Guide

Absorb the oil, then break it down — in that order.

Before You Wash

Blot up as much oil as possible with a clean cloth — press, don't rub. Then sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch generously over the stain and leave for at least 20 minutes to draw out the remaining oil. Brush away before washing. Skipping this step means you're trying to remove more oil than your detergent can handle in one pass.

How to Wash

Apply Spill That detergent undiluted to the stain, work it in gently, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wash at 40°C. Always check before tumble drying — a greasy ring is a sure sign it needs another round. Heat from the dryer will permanently set an oil stain.

Pro Tip

Washing-up liquid is your secret weapon here. Apply it directly to the oil stain before your regular wash — it's specifically formulated to cut through cooking fats and works brilliantly as a pre-treatment for olive oil, butter, and any other kitchen oil.

Old vs Fresh Olive Oil Stains

Fresh stains are infinitely easier to treat. If the garment has been through the dryer already, the oil has likely oxidised and bonded to the fibres — you're now dealing with a set stain.

For set oil stains: apply a generous amount of washing-up liquid, leave overnight, then wash with Spill That at the highest safe temperature. Multiple treatments may be needed, and results vary depending on the fabric and how long the stain has been set.