How to Remove Engine Oil From Carpet

Oil spills in the garage are common and can often be tracked into the home if someone unknowingly steps into the oil and then comes into your home. Engine oil can leave a greasy stain on carpet right away. You need to remove the engine oil from the carpet as soon as possible for the best results.

Supply List

• Paper towels


• Cornstarch


• Vacuum cleaner


• 3 cups apple cider vinegar


• 1 tablespoon dish soap


• Washcloth


• Towel


• Fan

1. Blot the area where the engine oil has gotten onto the carpet with a clean paper towel to remove any excess oil from the carpet right away.


2. Sprinkle cornstarch onto the area of the carpet that has the engine oil stain. Use quite a bit; you want to ensure that you have added enough so that it is able to work down into the surrounding fibers of the carpet.


3. Allow the cornstarch to sit on the engine oil stain for approximately half an hour. The cornstarch will work at absorbing the oil stain as it sits.


4. Remove the cornstarch from the carpeting by vacuuming the area with a standard household vacuum.


5. Mix a cleaning solution to dissolve the remaining oil stain by combining 3 cups of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of dish soap. 


6. Wet a washcloth in the cleaning solution you have prepared and work it into the oil stain. Rub the stain using pressure to get deep down into the fibers of the carpet.


7. Continue rubbing the stain; rinse the rag in between to remove the oil that has gathered on the rag.


8. Pour a small amount of water on the now clean area to remove the cleaning solution.


9. Dab the area clean with a clean towel to absorb the remaining moisture in the carpet.


10. Point a fan in the direction of the cleaned area to aid in the drying process.