How to Remove Motor Oil
Motor oil is a heavy petroleum-based stain that penetrates deeply and contains carbon particles that add a dark black color.
What Makes This Stain Tough
Motor oil is petroleum-based and soaks deep into fabric. The dark color comes from carbon buildup in the engine. You need a strong degreaser or WD-40 to break it down before washing with dish soap.
Choose Your Surface
Treatment varies by surface. Select where the motor oil stain is to get specific instructions.
How to Identify Motor Oil Stains
Dark black or dark brown oily stain with a petroleum smell
Spreads and darkens fabric significantly
Often found on garage floors, driveways, and work clothing
General Tips for Motor Oil Stains
Key tip: Don’t add water first. Apply dish soap directly to the stain.
Blot, never rub. Rubbing spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into fibers. Always blot from the outside in to contain the affected area.
Test first. Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area before applying to the stain. Wait 5 minutes and check for discoloration or damage.
Need Professional Help with Motor Oil?
Some motor oil stains are too set, too deep, or too large for DIY methods. Beyond Clean Team has the commercial-grade tools and expertise to handle what you can't.
Related Oil & Grease Stains
Cooking oil penetrates deep into fibers and leaves a translucent, darkened spot that resists water-based cleaning.
Makeup combines oil, wax, and pigment, making it a stubborn combination stain that requires multiple treatment approaches.
Butter leaves a greasy, translucent stain that soaks into fabric quickly and won't come out with water alone.