Go slowly and be careful not to spread the Vaseline any further.

You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to really get into those fibers! But this isn’t recommended for thin fabrics (like pima cotton) as it can tear or stretch the threads.

If a lot of Vaseline got into the fabric or if it has been there for a while, you may need to rub it with dishwashing soap a few times to see a difference. [4] X Research source

If you don’t have any stain remover, you can also put liquid laundry detergent on the stain or rub a wet bar of regular soap on it. [6] X Research source

If the garment’s care label calls for cold water, it’s still okay to use very warm water on the area with the stain.

Always check the care label to make sure that hot water is safe for the fabric! If not, you can use warm water because it won’t cause immediate shrinkage like hot water might. [9] X Research source Do not put the item in the dryer if the stain is still there after washing! That will only set the stain. So if that’s the case, treat and wash the stain again until it’s gone. [10] X Research source

The sooner you remove any excess, the better chance you have of lifting the stain.

Depending on the fabric and the quality of dyes used to color it, it may be necessary to test a little of the rubbing alcohol on an inconspicuous part of the garment to check for discoloration and to make sure it will damage the fabric. [13] X Research source Be gentle with thinner or delicate fabrics.

Remember to be careful with thinner fabrics!

You can use a clean towel to pat the stain dry or just let it air dry. If the stain still isn’t gone, apply more detergent or stain remover until there’s no more sign of it.

Always check the care label to make sure that hot water is safe for the fabric! If you’re unsure, use warm water because it won’t cause immediate shrinkage like hot water might. [17] X Research source Whatever you do, do not put a still-stained garment in the dryer because this will set the stain and make it even harder to remove in the future!

The sooner you remove any excess, the better chance you have of lifting the oil stain.

When treating colored garments, soak it in a mixture of vinegar and water in equal parts to prevent the fabric from fading or discoloration. [19] X Research source

For extra-stubborn stains, you can also scrub in some dishwashing liquid at this point and rinse it with warm water.

Once it’s air-dried, you can always go back and try a different stain removal method if the stain isn’t fully gone.