Ointment stains can be hard to remove due to their oily or greasy nature. With this in mind, it is vital to be familiar with ways on how to remove ointment stains from clothing. Some of the greasy salves, prescription creams, ointments, and petroleum jelly are meant to soothe the skin as well as provide comfort.
As oil-based stains, it can be difficult to remove ointment stains but it can be done by using several supplies that you have at home. The key factor in easier removal is to deal with the stain as soon as possible.
Read further to learn about the different ways on how to remove ointment stains from clothing.
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Important considerations when dealing with ointment stains
Before starting the removal process, you must test any cleaning agent or detergent in a concealed area first to ensure that the fabric will not be damaged or end up discolored.
Any leftover blobs of the ointment from the surface of the fabric should be removed by using a dull knife or spoon. Avoid rubbing the site of the stain. Blot the area using a dry white paper towel. Remember that just like with any type of stain, the earlier a stain is treated, the better the chances of successful removal.
For garments that are specially labeled as dry clean only, it is recommended to take it to dry cleaning services right away.
In case you decide to use a home dry cleaning kit, deal with the stain using the included stain remover product before putting the garment in the cleaning bag and into the dryer.
Steps in removing ointment stains from clothes
Let us now take a close look at the steps to effectively deal with ointment stains from clothes.
- Get rid of any leftover solid residue. If a splotch of ointment is smeared on fabric, it is recommended to utilize a dull knife or borders of a credit card to pick it up away from the fabric. Avoid rubbing since it will drive the ointment deeper into the fibers and make it even harder to remove the resulting stain. In some cases where you cannot clean the garment right away, sprinkle the site of the stain with a small amount of cornstarch, talcum or baby powder to absorb the oil.
- Treat the site with a stain remover product or heavy-duty laundry detergent. Deal with the oily component of the stain using a stain remover gel or spray that contains the enzyme lipase that breaks down the oil. This is a vital component for stains on synthetic fabrics such as polyester that are likely to ensnare oily stains. Work the cleaner into the stain using your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. In case you do not have a stain remover, utilize a heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent that contains stain-lifting enzymes to get rid of the oil. Leave the cleaning solution in place for at least 15 minutes and scrub lightly using a soft brush and thoroughly rinse in hot water.
- Wash the stain normally under the hottest water suggested on the garment care label. Check the site of the stain before placing the garment in the dryer. Take note that the high heat from a dryer will allow the stain to set and make it impossible to remove.
- For tinted ointments, it requires extra work to get rid of any traces of the dye. Prepare a solution by mixing an oxygen-based bleach with cool water. Submerge the garment and leave it to soak for at least 8 hours. Check the stain for any leftover trace of the dye.
Video: How to get ointment out of clothes
How do you get A&D ointment out of clothes?
An A&D ointment works as a skin protectant by moisturizing and promoting skin healing. There are instances in which the ointment is brushed away by clothing.
- Get rid of any leftover ointment on the fabric by scraping it away.
- Add a generous amount of baking soda on the site of the stain. This works by absorbing the remaining ointment from the fibers of the fabric.
- Leave in place for up to 15 minutes. Remove the baking soda using a vacuum cleaner or brush away with a small brush.
- If a grease mark still lingers, pour some dry-cleaning solvent to a cloth and scrub on the fabric. The dry-cleaning solvent works by lifting the mark away.
- Continue to dab on the fabric to get rid of any leftover traces of the dry-cleaning solvent.
How do you get Vaseline stains out of clothes?
Vaseline which is also called petroleum jelly was created back in the 1860s. The product achieved success in the market and became a must-have item in the United States. Although Vaseline works wonders on the skin, it can be undesirable once it comes in contact with clothing. Let us take a look at different methods in removing Vaseline stains on clothes.
- Lie the clothing flat and utilize a plastic spoon or knife to scrape away any leftover splotch of Vaseline. Position a paper towel over the stain and sweep an iron on a low setting to lift the stain. Replace with a new paper towel as needed and continue to iron until no more Vaseline appears. Wash the garment as usual.
- Scrape away any leftover Vaseline using a blunt edge. Soak the site with WD-40 and leave in place for at least 15 minutes before rinsing out with clean cold water. If the stain lingers, repeat the process until the stain is fully removed before washing the garment.
- After scraping the site for any leftover Vaseline, saturate the site with dishwashing liquid and rub with a clean cloth. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes before rinsing in clean cold water. Repeat the process if the stain is still visible before washing.
- Saturate the site with isopropyl alcohol after scraping away the Vaseline. Allow it to soak for up to 10 minutes. Rub the area using a clean cloth dipped in cold water. Repeat as needed before washing.
Does Vicks Vapor Rub stain?
A Vicks Vapor Rub stain can be considered as an oil-based stain. This type of stain is hard to remove since it is often overlooked. An issue of concern when it comes to oil-based stains is that they leave behind a slightly darkened area that is often overlooked.
Remember that the site eventually darkens over time unless it is removed immediately. Furthermore, if the garment with the oil stain dries up, the stain can set permanently.
Final thoughts
When dealing with ointment stains on clothing, it eventually darkens if left for some time. With the different methods on how to remove ointment stains from clothing, it can help you eliminate these types of stains in no time and your clothes are stain-free and clean.
