Stains can be among the most infuriating things to deal with, particularly when they ruin otherwise spotless clothing. Certain stains prove especially stubborn to remove, none more so than those caused by oil.

The reason oil-based stains are so difficult to eliminate is that as the oil oxidises, it turns sticky and embeds itself into the fabric, while its tendency to spread makes it particularly challenging to lift. To help tackle these unsightly marks, cleaning expert Chantel Mila has shared her comprehensive collection of cleaning hacks for dealing with various types of stains. The TikToker, who goes by Mama Mila, revealed a range of different cleaning techniques back in November 2025, explaining that stains require different treatment depending on their origin.

When it comes specifically to oil-based stains, you'll only need two everyday household items. If your regular washing cycle isn't getting the job done, cast your eye towards your kitchen cupboards.

All you'll require is some bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid. Begin by laying out the stained garment flat, ensuring the oil mark is facing upwards, reports The Mirror.

Carefully pour a small amount of washing-up liquid directly onto the stain, using enough to cover the mark according to its size. Follow this by generously coating the stain with bicarbonate of soda.

Using a small-bristled brush, work the washing-up liquid and bicarbonate of soda together to form a paste. Chantel advised leaving the homemade paste to soak in for 15 minutes.

Once the time is up, the stained garments should be put through their normal wash cycle. After laundering, the oil stain should have vanished completely.

This additional step, carried out prior to washing, will help tackle stubborn oil stains, as baking soda works as an absorbent agent. This means that when applied directly to oil stains, it soaks up the grease and draws it out from the fabric.

By combining both washing-up liquid and baking soda, you reap the dual benefits of absorbing the grease while simultaneously cutting through it. Washing-up liquid works to break down stubborn oil stains, loosening them ahead of the wash.

Specialists at cleaning product company Tide urged anyone tackling oil stains to act swiftly. Any excess oil should be blotted away with a sheet of kitchen roll before attempting to treat the affected area.

However, exercise caution when using this method on dark or coloured clothing. Baking soda has the potential to fade or discolour the material.

This can occur when baking soda is applied to delicate fabrics or garments containing pH-sensitive dyes. Baking soda's high pH level can cause damage to protein-based fibres such as wool, cashmere and silk, and may also cause certain dyes to fade.

While baking soda is not a bleach, it can produce a bleaching effect on coloured fabrics, potentially resulting in unwanted discolouration.