Grease stains are one of the most frustrating messes to deal with. If you cook often, you know how easily they find their way onto clothes, tablecloths, and kitchen towels. And once they set in, they’re notoriously hard to remove. Over the years, I tried countless stain removers and home remedies, but most of them only worked halfway—until my grandmother shared a simple trick that changed everything.
This method takes just two minutes, requires no fancy products, and uses items you already have in your kitchen. Best of all? It actually works.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Grease Stains
1. Gather your supplies
You’ll need: liquid dish soap, baking soda, a soft brush (like an old toothbrush), and an absorbent cloth or paper towel.
2. Blot the stain
Gently dab the grease spot with the cloth or paper towel to soak up any excess oil. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain.
3. Apply dish soap
Put a small amount of liquid dish soap directly on the stain. Dish soap is made to cut through grease, which makes it perfect for this job.
4. Add baking soda
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the soap. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, helping lift the grease from the fabric fibers.
5. Scrub gently
Use the soft brush to work the mixture into the fabric for about one minute.
6. Let it sit
Leave the mixture on the stain for another minute so it fully penetrates the grease.
7. Rinse and wash
Rinse the fabric with warm water, then launder as usual. When it comes out, the stain should be completely gone.
Why This Trick Works
- Dish soap breaks down grease molecules just as it does on dishes.
- Baking soda acts as both an absorbent and a gentle scrubber, pulling the grease up and out of the fibers.
- The combo of the two creates a quick, powerful stain-fighting paste that requires little effort.
Final Thoughts
With this simple method, stubborn grease stains don’t stand a chance. It’s fast, effective, and inexpensive—no need for specialty cleaners or endless scrubbing. Thanks to this grandmother-approved trick, your clothes, towels, and table linens can look brand new again.
Next time a splash of oil lands on your shirt, don’t panic. Just grab some dish soap and baking soda, and watch the stain disappear in minutes.
