Step 1: The Pre-Treatment Power Punch
Before anything else, you need to break down that grease. This is where simple household heroes come into play!
Absorb the Excess (Optional, but Recommended for Old Stains): If the stain is particularly thick or old, start by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda, cornstarch, or even baby powder over the entire greasy area. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours, to allow the powder to soak up as much oil as possible. You might see the powder clump as it absorbs the grease.
Why this works: These powders are highly absorbent and will draw out the oil that has settled deep into the fabric fibers, making the next step more effective.
The Dish Soap Attack: Gently brush off the absorbent powder. Now, reach for your trusty liquid dish soap (the kind you use to wash dishes by hand – it’s designed to cut grease!).
Apply: Apply a small dab of dish soap directly onto the stain.
Rub It In: Using your fingers or a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works wonders!), gently rub the soap into the fabric. Work it in thoroughly from the edges of the stain towards the center.
Let it Soak: Allow the dish soap to sit on the stain for at least 15-30 minutes. For really stubborn, set-in stains, you can let it sit for several hours or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more time it has to break down the grease.
Step 2: Wash with Vigor (and the Right Temperature!)
Now that the grease has been pre-treated, it’s time for the wash cycle.
Rinse First: Before tossing it in the machine, give the stained area a quick rinse under warm water to remove any excess dish soap.
Hot Water Heroics: Place the garment in your washing machine. Add your usual heavy-duty laundry detergent. Select the hottest water setting that is safe for your fabric, according to the care label. Hot water helps to emulsify and lift the remaining grease.
Pro Tip: For extra tough stains, you can add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle as a natural booster!
