How to Remove Red Lamp Oil From Fabric

by Andrea Lott

Overview

Oil lamps, used historically for light instead of or in addition to electric lights, now are a popular candle alternative. Lamp oils may be colored and scented to create ambiance in the home while burning. When spilled, red lamp oils create stains on fabric not easily removable by traditional cleaning methods. Red lamp oil stains require cleaning with oil-dissolving products. After spilling red lamp oil, remove the stain quickly to avoid damaging the fabric.

Step 1

Dab, don't rub, the spill with a white lint-free towel to absorb the excess liquid. Working from the edge of the stain inward in small motions, absorb as much of the spilled red lamp oil as possible with the towel. Don't rub or press on the stain, because it can cause the stain to penetrate the fabric more deeply.
Step 2

Apply enough baking soda on top of the stain to cover it completely at a depth of about one centimeter. Use the fabric brush to stir the baking soda over the stain, using it as a binding agent to absorb excess liquid and dye. The baking soda will turn pink as it absorbs the oil and dye. Once the baking soda is pink throughout, discard it by shaking it into a trash can or vacuuming it away.
Step 3

Repeat step 2 using additional applications of baking soda until the baking soda remains white when applied and stirred over the stain. Discard the last application of baking soda.
Step 4

Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid detergent formulated for grease removal to the stain. Working from the edge of the stain inward, brush the dishwashing liquid gently into the stain.
Step 5

Rinse away the dishwashing detergent with water. If the spill occurred on upholstery or another item that cannot be submerged in water, wet a white towel and dab the stain with a wet towel, alternating with a dry towel, until all of the dishwashing liquid has been cleaned away.

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White lint-free cloth towels Baking soda Fabric brush Vacuum cleaner Trash can Dishwashing liquid Water
White lint-free cloth towels
Baking soda
Fabric brush
Vacuum cleaner
Trash can
Dishwashing liquid
Water
If the steps above do not remove the entire stain, commercial grade solvents may do the trick. Depending on the type of fabric and the magnitude of the stain, professional cleaning may be required.
If the steps above do not remove the entire stain, commercial grade solvents may do the trick. Depending on the type of fabric and the magnitude of the stain, professional cleaning may be required.
Always perform a spot test using all cleaning products, even water, on an inconspicuous portion of the fabric before using them on the stain to avoid damaging or discoloring the fabric.
Always perform a spot test using all cleaning products, even water, on an inconspicuous portion of the fabric before using them on the stain to avoid damaging or discoloring the fabric.