Guide for Cleaning Car Interior from Grease and Oil Stains

Removing Oil and Grease Stains from Vehicle Interiors

If you've accidentally left oil or grease stains on your car's interior, it's crucial to clean them up promptly. Although oil and grease are slightly different, there are common techniques for removal. These methods can be adjusted based on the specific cleaners you use. In most cases, you'll either steam clean, wash, dissolve, or absorb the oil to remove the stains. Often, a combination of these techniques is necessary.

Cleaning Carpet and Cloth Seats

Understand the nature of the stain: Oil and grease stains are essentially identical for cleaning purposes. Scrape off any excess contaminants, then blot the area with a dry paper towel to remove any residual oil.
Apply baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up the oil. Afterward, vacuum it up or sweep it away. If the stain is large, you may need to repeat this process multiple times.
Clean with dry cleaning solvent: If residual stains remain, clean the area with a dry cleaning solvent. Instructions for sponging and blotting with a particular cleaner will be provided on the manufacturer's label. Continue this process until the stain is no longer visible.
Scrub with a degreaser: Dawn detergent is often sufficient for breaking up oil stains, especially fresh ones. If the stain persists, use a store-bought oil or grease remover like Goo Gone.
Steam the stained area: If a degreaser doesn't work, use steam to coax out the stubborn stain. Place a brown paper bag over the stain and apply steam using a clothing iron. Alternatively, use a traditional steam cleaner to steam the area directly.

Removing Grease and Oil from Leather

Remove excess grease or oil: Scrape off any excess grease or oil from the surface of the leather.
Mix a degreasing solution: Most often, this means adding dish detergent like Dawn to warm water, then agitating to mix. Over-the-counter leather oil removers are also suitable.
Clean the affected area: Scrub the spot thoroughly with the degreasing solution and a microfiber towel or rag. Stop cleaning immediately if you notice the color of the leather transferring to the rag, let the area dry, and then resume cleaning.
Use a wet towel to remove the cleaner: Remove any soapy residue with a clean, wet towel or microfiber towel.

Removing Grease and Oil from Plastic

Mix a degreasing solution: This should be treated similarly to cleaning leather. Avoid using thinner or strippers like toluene or lacquer thinner, as they can damage plastic.
Choose a sponge or scrub brush: Make sure the sponge or brush bristles are not too abrasive to avoid scratching the plastic. A toothbrush is suitable for small or hard-to-reach areas.
Scrub the area: Dip your chosen cleaning utensil into the solution and clean the area. Wipe any remaining cleaner away with a paper towel or rag.
Wipe with distilled water: Remove the cleaners and any lifted oils by wiping with distilled water. Tap water will also work if distilled water is unavailable.

Tips for Removing Grease

Cornstarch can be used in place of baking soda.
An ice cube may remove crayon stains on car upholstery.
If the stain is an old one, apply petroleum jelly to it, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then follow the above techniques.

Warnings

Some stains may not come clean.
Use solvents and cleaners in a well-ventilated area.
Do not put undiluted detergent on any of these surfaces as it will likely leave a film that attracts dirt.