How to Get Oil Stains Out of Carpet: The Complete Guide to a Spotless Floor

Feb 7, 2025by Sarah Hopson

Oil stains on carpets can be among the most frustrating messes. Unlike water-based spills, oil repels water, making traditional cleaning methods ineffective. Whether you’re dealing with cooking oil, motor oil, beauty oils, or even WD-40 residue, knowing the right techniques can mean the difference between a spotless carpet and a permanent stain.

The key to successful oil stain removal is acting fast and using the right combination of absorbent materials, degreasers, and gentle blotting techniques. Fortunately, with simple household ingredients like baking soda, dish soap, white vinegar, and rubbing alcohol, you can lift even the toughest grease stains without damaging your carpet fibres.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about removing oil from carpets, including:

✅ The best home remedies for oil stain removal

✅ How to use WD-40, baking soda, and dish soap to break down grease

✅ Tips for removing deep-set oil stains and lingering odours

✅ Answers to the most common questions about oil stain removal

Whether it’s a fresh spill or a stubborn, set-in stain, these proven cleaning tips will help you restore your carpet to its original condition—without needing professional cleaning.

Ready to say goodbye to those greasy stains? Let’s get started!

Why Oil Stains Are Tough to Remove

Oil is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water and clings to carpet fibres. This makes traditional water-based cleaners ineffective. Instead, you need absorbent materials and degreasers to break down the oil before it sets in.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Oil from Carpet

1. Blot the Excess Oil Immediately

Before the oil spreads, use a clean paper towel or cloth to blot (not rub) the stain. Press down gently to soak up as much oil as possible.

2. Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Both baking soda and cornstarch work as natural absorbents:

Sprinkle a generous amount over the stain.
Let it absorb the oil for at least 15–30 minutes.
Vacuum the area to remove the powder.

3. Use Dish Soap to Break Down the Oil

Dishwashing liquid, especially one designed to cut grease (like Dawn), is effective for lifting oil stains:

Combine a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a cleaning solution.
Dab a sponge or clean cloth into the soapy solution.
Gently blot and work the soap into the stain.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing with a damp cloth.

4. Try White Vinegar for Deep Cleaning

If any stain remains, mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water:

Spray or dab the solution onto the affected area.
Let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting with a dry cloth.
Repeat if necessary.

5. Use Rubbing Alcohol for Stubborn Oil Stains

For deep-set oil stains, rubbing alcohol can help dissolve the grease:

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth.
Blot the stain gently (do not pour directly on the carpet).
Let it air dry before vacuuming.

Extra Tips for Effective Oil Removal

Avoid scrubbing—rubbing spreads the stain.
Test cleaning solutions on a hidden carpet area before applying.
Use a carpet cleaner for larger stains.
Act quickly—the longer oil sits, the harder it is to remove.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet

Oil stains on carpets can be challenging to remove because oil doesn’t dissolve in water. Whether it's cooking oil, motor oil, or cosmetic oils, tackling the stain quickly prevents it from setting into the fibres.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil

Use a clean, dry paper towel or cloth to blot the stain. Press gently to absorb as much oil as possible without spreading it.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda, cornstarch, or talcum powder over the stain. These powders help soak up the oil, making it easier to remove. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap to Break Down the Grease

Dish soap is great for cutting through grease. Combine a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a cleaning solution. and gently dab the stain with a sponge or cloth. Let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting with a dry cloth.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

You must use a clean and damp cloth to remove any soap residue. It will help you blot the area dry and allow it to air dry completely.

If the stain persists, consider using white vinegar or rubbing alcohol as a final step.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet with Baking Soda?

Baking soda is one of the best household ingredients for removing oil stains from carpets. Its absorbent properties help lift grease and oil without damaging the fibers.

Step 1: Blot the Stain

Before applying baking soda, use a clean paper towel to blot excess oil. This prevents it from seeping deeper into the carpet.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

Cover the stain with a thick layer of baking soda and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or longer for deep stains. Baking soda absorbs the oil, making it easier to lift from the carpet.

Step 3: Vacuum Up the Baking Soda

Once the baking soda has soaked up the oil, vacuum the area thoroughly to remove the powder.

Step 4: Clean with Dish Soap

Mix dish soap with warm water and gently blot the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before blotting with a clean, damp cloth.

For tougher stains, repeat the process or use a carpet cleaner designed for oil-based stains.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet in Car?

Oil stains in car carpets can be tough to remove due to their dense fibres. The key is to act quickly, whether it's engine oil, food grease, or cosmetic oil.

Step 1: Absorb the Excess Oil

Blot the stain with a microfiber cloth or paper towel to remove as much oil as possible.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

Soak the oil in baking soda, cornstarch, or baby powder. Wait 30 minutes to an hour before you vacuum.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap or Carpet Cleaner

Mix dish soap with warm water and apply it to the stain using a sponge. For deep-set stains, use an automotive carpet cleaner and scrub gently with a brush.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Gently wipe off any leftover soap with a clean and damp cloth.

Dry the area completely to prevent mildew.

For tougher stains, try a steam cleane.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet UK?

In the UK, you can use common household products to remove oil stains from carpets effectively.

Step 1: Blot the Oil

Take a paper towel and gently soak up any remaining oil. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.

Step 2: Use an Absorbent Powder

Apply a thick coating of baking soda, talcum powder, or corn flour over the stain, leaving it for at least half an hour.. Then, vacuum thoroughly.

Step 3: Apply Washing-Up Liquid

Mix a tiny bit of washing-up liquid into warm water. Use a cloth to blot the stain gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Use a UK Carpet Stain Remover

For tough stains, consider using a UK carpet stain remover like carpet cleaner. For the best outcome, follow the directions provided on the label.

Allow the carpet to dry completely and vacuum again for a fresh finish.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet Without Baking Soda?

Oil stains on carpets can be stubborn, and while baking soda is a common solution, it’s not the only way to remove them. If you don’t have baking soda at home, don’t worry—there are several effective alternatives you can use to lift oil stains and restore your carpet’s appearance.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil Immediately

The key to removing oil from the carpet is to act fast. As soon as you notice the stain, grab a clean paper towel or microfiber cloth and gently blot the affected area. You should not rub, since it can drive the oil deeper into the carpet's fibres. Instead, press firmly to absorb as much oil as possible.

Step 2: Use Cornstarch or Talcum Powder

If you don’t have baking soda, cornstarch or talcum powder can work as excellent substitutes. These powders help absorb the oil and make it easier to remove.

Sprinkle a generous amount over the stain.
Let it sit for 20–30 minutes to absorb the oil.
Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove the powder.

Step 3: Apply Dish Soap to Break Down the Oil

Dish soap, especially one designed to cut grease, is highly effective at lifting oil stains.

Combine a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a cleaning solution.
Dampen a sponge or clean cloth with the soapy solution.
Blot the stained area gently, working the soap into the fibers.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the oil.

Step 4: Rinse with Warm Water

After treating the stain with dish soap, it’s important to rinse out the soap residue.

Use a clean, damp cloth to blot the area and remove the soap.
Continue blotting with fresh water until the soap is completely gone.
Blot the area dry with a dry towel or cloth.

Step 5: Try White Vinegar for Deeper Cleaning

If the stain is still visible, white vinegar can help remove any remaining oil.

Mix white vinegar and warm water in a one-to-one ratio.
Dampen a cloth with the solution and dab it onto the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a dry cloth.

Vinegar also helps neutralize odours and freshen up your carpet.

Step 6: Use Rubbing Alcohol for Stubborn Oil Stains

For deep-set or dried oil stains, rubbing alcohol can help dissolve the grease.

Lightly moisten a clean cloth with a bit of rubbing alcohol.
Gently blot the stained area, but don’t pour it directly onto the carpet.
Let it air dry before vacuuming to restore the carpet’s texture.

Additional Tips for Removing Oil from Carpet Without Baking Soda

Use baby powder if you don’t have cornstarch or talcum powder.
Don’t scrub, or you risk making the stain worse.
Try a carpet stain remover, such as Vanish or Resolve, if home remedies don’t work.
Use a steam cleaner for tough stains, as heat can help break down oil.

How to Get Oil Out of Carpet at Home?

Oil stains on carpets can be tricky to remove, but you don’t need expensive commercial cleaners to tackle them. With simple household ingredients and the right cleaning techniques, you can effectively remove oil stains and restore your carpet’s look. Whether it’s cooking oil, motor oil, or cosmetic oil, acting quickly is key to preventing permanent stains.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil Immediately

As soon as you notice the oil stain, grab a paper towel or clean cloth and blot the affected area. Do not rub; it can cause the stain to penetrate further into the carpet fibres. Instead, press gently to absorb as much oil as possible.

Step 2: Use an Absorbent Powder

If you have baking soda, cornstarch, talcum powder, or flour, these work well to absorb oil from carpets.

Sprinkle a generous amount over the stain, making sure to cover the entire area.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or longer for deep stains) so it can soak up the oil.
Use a vacuum to remove the powder completely.

This step helps lift the majority of the oil before using a liquid cleaner.

Step 3: Apply Dish Soap to Break Down the Grease

Since dish soap is designed to cut through grease, it’s one of the best solutions for oil stains.

Mix a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap with warm water.
Soak a clean cloth or sponge in the soapy mixture.
Blot (don’t scrub) the stained area gently, working the soap into the fibres.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the oil.

Step 4: Rinse the Carpet

After the soap has had time to break down the grease, it’s important to remove any residue.

Take a clean, damp cloth and blot the area to rinse out the soap.
Repeat the process until all the soap is removed.
Use a dry towel to absorb excess moisture.

Step 5: Try White Vinegar for Stubborn Stains

If the stain persists, white vinegar is a natural degreaser that can help lift the remaining oil.

Use an equal ratio of white vinegar to warm water and mix them thoroughly.
Dip a cloth into the solution and dab it onto the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a dry towel.

In addition, white vinegar helps eliminate unpleasant smells and freshen up the carpet.

Step 6: Use Rubbing Alcohol for Deep-Set Stains

For older or stubborn oil stains, rubbing alcohol can help break down the grease.

Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a fresh cloth and
Gently blot the stain (never apply alcohol directly on the carpet).
Let it air dry before vacuuming to restore the carpet’s texture.

Additional Tips for Cleaning Oil from Carpet at Home

Use baby powder if you don’t have baking soda or cornstarch.
Test cleaning solutions on a hidden carpet area before applying them to the stain.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage carpet fibres and make the stain worse.
Try a carpet stain remover, such as Vanish or Resolve, for particularly stubborn stains.
Use a steam cleaner for deep cleaning if necessary.

How to Clean Oil Out of Carpet?

Oil stains on carpets can be tough to remove because oil repels water and clings to carpet fibres. Whether it's cooking oil, motor oil, or beauty products like coconut oil, removing it requires a method that absorbs the grease and lifts it from the fibres. The good news is that you can clean oil out of your carpet using simple household products.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil Immediately

The first and most important step is to blot the oil as soon as possible.

Use a dry paper towel or microfiber cloth to gently blot the stain.
Avoid rubbing, as this will push the oil deeper into the carpet.
Continue blotting until you’ve absorbed as much oil as possible.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

An absorbent material will soak up the remaining oil before it settles into the fibers. You can use:

Baking soda
Cornstarch
Talcum powder

How to apply:

Sprinkle a generous amount of powder directly onto the oil stain.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (for best results, leave it for an hour).
Once the powder has absorbed the oil, vacuum the area thoroughly.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap to Break Down the Grease

Dish soap is excellent for cutting through grease and works well on oil stains.

Combine a small amount of dish soap with warm water to create a cleaning solution.
Immerse a clean sponge or cloth in the prepared solution. Gently blot the stain, working from the outside in.
Allow the sudsy mixture to remain undisturbed for 5–10 minutes, effectively dissolving the oil.

Step 4: Rinse and Blot

After treating the stain with dish soap, you need to remove any leftover residue.

Take a clean, damp cloth and blot the area to lift the soap and oil mixture.
Repeat the process with fresh water until the carpet feels clean.
Use a dry towel to absorb excess moisture.

Step 5: Try White Vinegar for Stubborn Stains

If traces of oil remain, white vinegar is a natural degreaser that helps lift stains and neutralise odours.

Equally, mix white vinegar and warm water.
Lightly moisten a cloth, then gently blot the stain.
Dampen a cloth and gently press it against the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot again with a dry towel.

Step 6: Use Rubbing Alcohol for Deep Stains

If you’re dealing with older or more stubborn oil stains, rubbing alcohol can help break down the grease. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth (avoid pouring it directly onto the carpet).

Use a clean cloth and dampen it with a dash of rubbing alcohol
Blot the stained area gently (never pour alcohol directly onto the carpet).
Allow it to air dry before vacuuming.

Additional Tips for Cleaning Oil from Carpet

You can also use baby powder
Test cleaning solutions on a small hidden carpet section before applying them to the stain.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage carpet fibres and spread the oil.
Use a carpet stain remover, such as Vanish or Resolve, for particularly stubborn stains.
Try a steam cleaner for deep cleaning if needed.

How to Get Oil Paint Out of Carpet?

Oil-based paint stains require special treatment since they don’t dissolve in water.

Step 1: Scrape Off Excess Paint

If the paint is wet, blot with a paper towel. If it has dried, gently scrape it off using a butter knife.

Step 2: Apply Paint Thinner or Rubbing Alcohol

Dampen a cloth with paint thinner or rubbing alcohol and blot the stain gently. Avoid oversaturating the carpet.

Step 3: Clean with Dish Soap

Mix some dishwashing liquid with warm water, then treat the stain using this solution. Blot until the stain lifts.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Use a damp cloth to remove any residue and allow the carpet to air dry.

For persistent stains, a commercial carpet cleaner designed for paint removal may be necessary.

How to Get Oil Stains Out of Carpet?

Oil stains on carpets can be tough to remove because oil repels water and seeps deep into carpet fibres. Whether it’s cooking oil, motor oil, or makeup oil, acting fast can prevent the stain from setting. Thankfully, with the right cleaning methods and household products, you can effectively lift oil stains and restore your carpet.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Oil Immediately

Before applying any cleaning solution, blot up as much oil as possible to prevent it from spreading.

Gently blot the stain using a paper towel, microfiber cloth, or an old rag..
Avoid scrubbing, as this may drive the oil further into the fabric.
Continue blotting until you make sure the cloth no longer picks up oil.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

To lift excess oil from the carpet, use an absorbent powder like:

Baking soda
Cornstarch
Talcum powder

How to apply:

Sprinkle a thick layer of powder over the stain.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (for best results, leave it for an hour).
Once the powder has absorbed the oil, vacuum the area thoroughly.

This step helps pull oil out of the fibres, making it easier to remove.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap to Break Down the Grease

Dish soap is great for breaking down greasy stains, as it’s designed to cut through oil.

Add a little dish soap to warm water, then soak a clean cloth or sponge in the mixture.
Add a little dish soap to warm water, then soak a clean cloth or sponge in the mixture.
Gently blot (don’t rub) the stained area, working from the outside in.
Let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the oil.

Step 4: Rinse and Blot

Once the oil stain starts to lift, it’s important to remove any soap residue.

Take a clean, damp cloth and blot the area to lift the soap and remaining oil.
Repeat with fresh water until no soap remains.
Use a dry towel to soak up excess moisture.

Step 5: Try White Vinegar for Deep Cleaning

Should the stain remain, try white vinegar to eliminate the remaining traces of oil

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
Soak a cloth in the mixture, then gently press it against the stain to lift it away.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a dry towel.

Vinegar also helps neutralise odours and freshen up your carpet.

Step 6: Use Rubbing Alcohol for Stubborn Stains

For deep-set or older oil stains, rubbing alcohol can help break down the grease.

Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a fresh cloth.
Blot the stained area gently (never pour alcohol directly onto the carpet).
Let it air dry before vacuuming.

Additional Tips for Removing Oil Stains from Carpet

Use baby powder if you don’t have baking soda or cornstarch.
Test any cleaning solution on a hidden section of carpet first.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can push the oil deeper into the carpet fibers.
Use a commercial carpet stain remover for extra power.
Try a steam cleaner for deep cleaning if necessary.

How to Get Engine Oil Out of Carpet?

Engine oil is thick and greasy, making it difficult to remove from carpets.

Step 1: Blot Up the Excess

Use a microfiber cloth or paper towel to absorb as much oil as possible.

Step 2: Use Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Cover the stain with an absorbent powder and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming.

Step 3: Apply a Degreasing Dish Soap

Blend dish soap with warm water, then carefully blot the affected spot Scrub gently with a soft brush if needed.

Step 4: Use a Carpet Cleaner

For stubborn stains, use a carpet cleaning solution designed for grease removal.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Dab the area with a damp cloth to remove any soap, then let it air dry completely.

If the stain persists, a professional cleaning service may be necessary.

How to Get Car Oil Out of Carpet?

Car oil stains on carpets can be tough to remove because they are thicker, darker, and more stubborn than regular cooking or cosmetic oil stains. Whether it’s engine oil, transmission fluid, or grease, removing it requires strong degreasers and absorbent materials to lift the stain without damaging your carpet. The key is to act fast before the oil sets deep into the fibers.

Step 1: Blot the Excess Car Oil

As soon as you notice the stain, use a clean paper towel or microfiber cloth to blot up as much oil as possible.

Avoid rubbing—this will spread the stain and push the oil deeper into the carpet.
Press down firmly to absorb excess oil from the surface.
Continue blotting with a dry part of the cloth until no more oil transfers.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

To lift the remaining oil from the carpet, use an absorbent powder like:

Baking soda
Cornstarch
Talcum powder
Baby powder

How to apply:

Cover the entire stain with a thick layer of powder.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour to absorb the oil.
Once the powder has turned clumpy, vacuum it up completely.

This step pulls excess oil out of the carpet fibres, making the stain easier to clean.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent

Since car oil is thick and greasy, a strong degreasing agent is needed. Dish soap or liquid laundry detergent works well to break down the oil.

Mix 1 teaspoon of grease-cutting dish soap with 2 cups of warm water.
Dip a sponge or clean cloth into the solution.
Work your way from the outer edges inward, gently blotting as you go.
Let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes to dissolve the oil.

Step 4: Rinse and Blot the Carpet

Once the oil stain starts to loosen, remove the soap residue to prevent attracting more dirt.

Wet a clean cloth using warm water and carefully blot the spot.
Repeat the process until no soapy residue remains.
Take a clean, dry towel and soak up any leftover moisture..

Step 5: Try White Vinegar for Stubborn Stains

If traces of the stain remain, white vinegar is a great natural degreaser that can help lift the remaining oil and remove odours.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
Dab a clean cloth into the solution and blot the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a dry towel.

Step 6: Use Rubbing Alcohol or WD-40 for Deep Stains

For older, set-in car oil stains, rubbing alcohol or WD-40 can help break down the grease.

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or WD-40 onto a clean cloth.
Blot the stain gently (do not pour directly onto the carpet).
Let it sit for 5 minutes, then blot with a dry cloth.
Rinse with warm water and dry completely.

Step 7: Steam Clean or Use a Carpet Stain Remover

For deep, stubborn stains, using a carpet stain remover or a steam cleaner can provide extra cleaning power.

Use a commercial carpet cleaner designed for oil stains (like Vanish Carpet Cleaner or Resolve).
Follow the instructions on the product label.
If using a steam cleaner, apply steam directly to the stain and blot with a clean cloth.

Additional Tips for Removing Car Oil from Carpet

Act fast—fresh stains are much easier to remove.
Use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to gently lift excess oil before blotting.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can push oil deeper into carpet fibres.
Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of carpet before applying it to the stain.
Repeat the process if needed—some oil stains may require multiple treatments.

How to Get Motor Oil Out of Carpet?

Motor oil stains on carpets can be difficult to remove because they are thick, greasy, and dark, making them more noticeable and harder to lift. Whether the spill happened in your home, garage, or car, acting fast is the best way to prevent the oil from setting deep into the carpet fibres. Fortunately, with the right cleaning techniques and household products, you can effectively remove motor oil stains from the carpet and restore its original appearance.

Step 1: Blot Up Excess Motor Oil

Before applying any cleaning solution, you need to remove as much excess oil as possible.

Take a paper towel, old rag, or microfiber cloth and gently blot (not rub) the stain.
Avoid scrubbing, as this will push the oil deeper into the carpet.
Continue blotting until you make sure no more oil transfers onto the cloth.

Step 2: Apply an Absorbent Powder

To remove any lingering oil, apply an absorbent substance such as

Baking soda
Cornstarch
Talcum powder
Baby powder

How to apply:

Cover the stain with a thick layer of powder.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour to soak up the oil.
Vacuum the powder thoroughly to remove the absorbed oil.

If the stain is large or deep, you may need to repeat this step before moving on.

Step 3: Use Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent

Since motor oil is heavier and more stubborn than other types of oil, a strong degreasing cleaner is needed. Dish soap and liquid laundry detergent are excellent choices.

Stir a teaspoon of grease-cutting dish soap into two cups of warm water.
use a clean sponge or cloth to soak up the solution.
Work from the outside of the stain toward the centre, gently blotting as you go.
Let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the oil.

Step 4: Rinse the Carpet

After the dish soap has loosened the oil, it’s important to remove any soap residue to prevent dirt buildup.

Take a clean, damp cloth and blot the area to remove the soap.
Repeat the process with fresh water until the carpet feels clean.
Use a dry towel to soak up any remaining moisture.

Step 5: Use White Vinegar for Deep Cleaning

If any residue remains, white vinegar can help break down remaining motor oil and neutralise odours.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and dab it onto the stain.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a dry towel.

White vinegar is a natural degreaser that helps lift tough stains while freshening the carpet.

Step 6: Apply Rubbing Alcohol or WD-40 for Stubborn Stains

For older, deep-set motor oil stains, rubbing alcohol or WD-40 can help dissolve the oil.

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or WD-40 onto a clean cloth.
Gently blot the stain (never pour directly onto the carpet).
Let it sit for 5 minutes, then blot with a dry cloth.
Rinse the area with warm water and dry completely.

Step 7: Use a Carpet Stain Remover or Steam Cleaner

For large or stubborn motor oil stains, using a commercial carpet cleaner or a steam cleaner can help lift the remaining oil.

Use a carpet stain remover designed for grease and oil stains
Follow the product instructions carefully.
If using a steam cleaner, apply steam to the stain and blot with a clean cloth.

Additional Tips for Removing Motor Oil from Carpet

Tackle the stain immediately, since the faster you treat it, the easier it becomes to eliminate.
Use an old credit card or plastic scraper to lift excess oil before blotting.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can spread the stain and make it worse.
Check the cleaning product on a hidden area of the carpet first to ensure it’s safe before treating the stain.
Repeat the process if needed—some deep stains require multiple treatments.

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