A Guide to Getting Grease Stains Out of Upholstery
Grease stains on upholstery can be a real headache. Whether it’s from an accidental spill while cooking for from the natural oils on your skin, grease stains can quickly become an eyesore. But fear not, as this guide will walk you through the steps to effectively remove grease stains from your upholstery and restore its pristine appearance.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Dishwashing liquid (mild)
- Clean, white cloth or paper towels
- Cornstarch or talcum powder
- A soft-bristle brush
- Baking soda (optional)
- Warm water
Step-by-Step Guide
- Blot excess grease. As soon as you notice the grease stain, use a clean, white cloth or paper towels to blot the area gently. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the grease and push it deeper into the upholstery.
- Scrape off solid grease (if applicable). If the grease has solidified, use a plastic spoon or a blunt edge to carefully scrape off as much of the solid grease as possible.
- Create a cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid with warm water to create a soapy solution. Avoid using strong detergents or harsh chemicals that may damage the upholstery.
- Test in an inconspicuous area. Before applying the cleaning solution to the stain, test it in an inconspicuous area of your upholstery to ensure it won’t cause color fading or damage. Wait a few minutes and check for any adverse reactions.
- Blot and lift. Dampen a clean, white cloth with the soapy solution and blot the grease stain. Don’t apply the solution directly to the stain, and be sure to use as little fluid as possible to avoid creating a water stain. Continue blotting until you start to see the stain lifting.
- Rinse and blot. After blotting, dampen another clean cloth with plain water and blot the area to remove any soap residue. This helps prevent a soapy residue buildup.
- Absorb excess moisture. Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the cleaned area to absorb any remaining moisture and grease. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes, then brush it off with a soft-bristle brush. Baking soda can also be used for this purpose.
- Repeat if necessary. If the grease stain persists, you may need to repeat the above steps until the stain is completely gone.
- Final rinse. After successfully removing the stain, rinse the area with plain water one more time and blot it dry with a clean cloth.
Grease stains on upholstery are certainly annoying, but with the right approach and a bit of patience, you can effectively remove them. Remember to act quickly, use a mild cleaning solution, and always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before tackling the stain. By following these steps, you can enjoy clean and stain-free upholstery once again.
