How to Get an Oil Mark Out of a Satin Shirt

Satin is a type of fabric weave that creates a smooth, unbroken surface. Satin can be woven from various materials including cotton, polyester and nylon, but it's typically made from silk. Satin weave can be used for a wide array of items such as ballet shoes, baseball uniforms, wedding dresses, blouses and shirts. Because it is a delicate weave, care must be taken when removing oil stains from satin apparel. A little preparation and some patience goes a long way toward making your favorite satin shirt look like new.

Satin is a type of weave used to make a fabric.

Step 1

Absorb extra oil by blotting the fabric with a paper towel, as soon as possible after noticing the stain. If you can, place a paper towel under the fabric and lay it on a flat surface. Place another paper towel on top of the fabric, and press hard.

Step 2

Test the fabric for colorfastness by rubbing a small amount of pretreatment detergent into an inconspicuous spot. Rinse the spot, and allow it to dry. If the color runs or the fabric appears damaged in any way, take the item to a professional for cleaning.

Step 3

Pretreat the stain using a heavy-duty pretreatment detergent. Apply the detergent according to the manufacturer's direction. If you do not have pretreatment detergent available, blot the stain with a liquid laundry detergent or a powdered laundry detergent mixed with water, to create a paste.

Step 4

Blot the stain with a white linen cloth soaked in water, as hot as you can stand. Avoid using terrycloth or a dark cloth. The hot water will help release the oil.

Step 5

Wash the item in a laundry machine set to the hottest water setting and the delicate agitator setting, if the material is made from a machine washable fabric like cotton or nylon.Some silks can be machine washed, but if you aren’t sure about your particular fabric, err on the side of caution and hand wash the garment in hot water. Hand wash it by gently massaging the stain with your hands, to loosen the oil.

Step 6

Allow the item to air dry completely, and examine the stain. If the stain is still present, pretreat the stain once again, re-wash the fabric in hot water and allow it to air dry.