How to Remove Motor Oil from Carpets
Walking in and out of your house when working on the car can lead to all kinds of spots winding up on your carpet, motor oil included. Dealing with motor oil spills on your carpet can be stressful.
Motor oil not only leaves a visible stain but also an unpleasant odor that can be challenging to eliminate.
In this guide, we answer some frequently asked questions about removing motor oil from carpets and how Zerorez® can help keep your carpets clean.
Can Motor Oil Stains Be Removed?
Yes, motor oil stains can often be removed from carpets, especially if treated quickly. Using the right cleaning techniques is crucial for effective spot removal.
Does Motor Oil Dry on Carpet?
Motor oil can dry out on carpets if not treated promptly, leaving a harder-to-remove stain that might also attract more dirt. Addressing oil spills quickly is essential to avoid permanent damage.
How to Get Motor Oil Out of Carpet?
If the oil has not dried out yet:
Blot the Excess: Start by blotting up as much of the motor oil as possible with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Do not rub, as this can spread the oil further.
Apply Baking Soda: Use a generous amount of baking soda to cover the affected area. The baking soda absorbs the oil, doing most of the heavy lifting for you. Let it sit overnight before vacuuming thoroughly.
Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix water and baking soda to create a thick paste. Apply this solution to the stain with a spoon and let dry on the area.
Scrape: Using a moderately gentle tool like a spoon or butter knife, scrape the paste away and vacuum it up.
Rinse and Blot Dry: After the stain lifts, rinse the area with cold water and blot dry with a clean towel.
How to Get Dried Motor oil Out of Carpet
If the oil has dried, skip steps 1 and 2 above and jump to step 3, repeating this process until the spot is lifted.
Baking soda doubles as a deodorizer, helping to remove the smell of motor oil from your carpet during the cleaning process.
How to Get Black Oil Out of Carpet?
How to Get Motor Oil Out of Car Carpet
If any has dried, scrape it gently with a butter knife without pushing it deeper into the fibers.
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the affected area to allow them to soak up the oil. (Pro tip: always opt for baking soda if you can. It works as a deodorizer, treating the smell and the stain simultaneously!)
Let the baking soda or cornstarch sit for several hours or overnight to fully absorb the oil spill, then vacuum it up.
If the stain persists, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, plus a small amount of baking soda, and spray on the area. Blot with a clean cloth until the stain fades, or scrub with a gentle brush to break up the oil.
Repeat step 4 until the stain is lifted.
Motor Oil Removal in Carpet Troubleshooting Tips:
If you're struggling to remove a motor oil stain:
Reapply the paste. Sometimes, a second application of the baking soda paste is necessary.
Avoid using hot water, as this can sometimes cause stains to set.
Always be sure to perform a test on an inconspicuous area of your carpet to ensure that the cleaning method doesn't harm your carpet.
How Zerorez Can Help
Zerorez is equipped to identify and treat the most common household spots with advanced cleaning technology. Our unique Zr cleaning process involves cleaning with our Zr™ Water which is free of harsh chemicals, ensuring your carpet remains clean and safe without a soapy residue.
With the right approach, removing motor oil from carpets can be manageable.
For severe spots or if you prefer professional care, Zerorez offers comprehensive carpet cleaning services that restore your carpets and tackle tough spots effectively.
Book with Zerorez today to learn more about our services and how we can help maintain your home's cleanliness and comfort.