How To Clean Motor Oil From Carpet?

Last Updated on September 11, 2023 by admin

Motor oil can be a stubborn stain, especially when it’s fresh. If you spill motor oil on the carpet, you may think your only option is to replace the carpet. However, cleaning motor oil from the carpet is possible if you act quickly and follow the correct process.

If you have ever changed your own car motor oil or know someone who has, then you may be aware that motor oil can be a messy business. There are several potential hazards of working with or around motor oil.

The most important thing to remember when dealing with spills like this is that time is of the essence – quick action and preparation will go a long way towards limiting damage and stress later on. Read on for our guide on how to clean motor oil from carpets.

 

Step 1: Absorb the Oil

The first step to removing motor oil from your carpet is to try and remove as much of the oil as possible. There are a few ways to do this.

Using Absorbent Sheets

Absorbent sheets can be purchased almost anywhere and are highly effective at removing motor oil from the carpet.

• Tear off a sheet, place it over the spill, and then put a thick, heavy object on top of the pad.
• The object should be larger than the spill so that you can get it as close to the spill as possible.
• Once you have done that, put something over the pad, like a plate, and then wait for at least 12 hours.
• You can then remove the pad, plate, and object and discard the sheet.

  

Using a Vacuum 

An old vacuum with a clean filter can also be used to suck up the motor oil. Place one end of the vacuum over the spill and the other over the clean filter. Once you have done that, turn the vacuum on and suck up the oil from the carpet.

Step 2: Blot the Area

Once you have absorbed as much oil as possible, you will need to blot the remaining oil. The best way to do this is to use paper towels or rags. Avoid using anything that may leave lint behind. Blot the oil for about 30 seconds, and then change the paper towel or rag. Keep blotting the oil until there is no more oil coming from the carpet.

Step 3: Mix Dishwasher Detergent with Water

After that, clean the area with dishwasher detergent and warm water.

Dishwasher detergent is very potent and can break down even the most stubborn stains. Dip the clean cloth in that solution and rub the stained area with that cloth to clean it.

Step 4: Use Baking Soda or Corn Starch

If the motor oil has already dried, you can try to break down the stain with baking soda or corn starch.

• Start by mixing a small amount of water with the baking soda or corn starch until you have a thick paste.
• Blot the baking soda or corn starch through the stain until it disappears.
• After you have done this, you will need to clean the area with water. This will ensure that the baking soda or corn starch does not leave a residue behind.

  

Step 5: Employ Rubbing Alcohol

The next method is to use rubbing alcohol to clean the stain.

• Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol over the stain and let it sit for a few hours.
• Then rub the area with a clean cloth to remove the oil stain from the carpet.
• Once you have done that, clean the area with water to remove the alcohol.

  

Step 6: Using Dry Cleaning Solvent

If a stain is particularly stubborn, you can try using a dry cleaning solvent to break it down.

• Dry cleaning solvents are very strong and dangerous to work with, so you should always follow the instructions found on the can carefully.
• Blot the dry cleaning solvent through the stain and then clean the area with water.
• Dry cleaning solvents are extremely flammable and should be used in a well-ventilated area.

  

Step 7: Use a Professional Oil-Based Cleaner

If all else has failed, you can always hire a professional oil-based cleaner to remove the stain. Though professional cleaners are usually expensive, they are efficient and may be worth the cost if other methods have failed.

Conclusion

The good news is that you don’t have to replace your carpet if you spill motor oil or other types of oils. With the right cleaning method and patience, you can easily clean motor oil from the carpet.