Transmission fluid stains are some of the most stubborn clothing stains you can encounter. The fluid is petroleum-based, thick, and deeply pigmented, which allows it to cling to fabric fibers and spread quickly.
This guide explains how to remove transmission fluid from clothes using proven household methods for both fresh and dried stains.
How Do You Get Transmission Fluid Out of Clothes
Method 1: Dish Soap and Baking Soda (Best for Fresh Stains)
Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it one of the most effective treatments for transmission fluid.
Steps:
- Place cardboard or paper towels under the stained area.
- Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch generously over the stain.
- Let it sit for 15–30 minutes to absorb excess oil.
- Shake or brush off the powder.
- Apply liquid dish soap directly to the stain.
- Gently work it into the fabric using your fingers or a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Repeat if necessary.
- Wash the garment normally using the warmest water safe for the fabric.
This method works best for cotton, denim, and synthetic fabrics.
Method 2: Laundry Detergent Pre-Treatment
Heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent can also break down transmission fluid stains.
Steps:
- Apply liquid detergent directly onto the stain.
- Gently rub the fabric together to work the detergent into the fabric.
- Let it sit for 20–30 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Wash as usual.
Avoid powdered detergents for pre-treatment, as they are less effective on oil-based stains.
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Method 3: WD-40 or Similar Degreaser (For Set-In Stains)
For older or dried transmission fluid stains, a degreaser can help loosen the oil before washing.
Steps:
- Place paper towels under the stained area.
- Lightly spray WD-40 onto the stain.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Apply liquid dish soap on top of the treated area.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Wash immediately.
Important note: WD-40 itself is oil-based, so thorough rinsing is necessary to avoid leaving residue.
Method 4: Rubbing Alcohol or Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol works by breaking down oil bonds in fabric fibers.
Steps:
- Dampen a clean cloth with rubbing alcohol.
- Blot the stain from the outside inward.
- Continue until the stain begins to lift.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Apply dish soap or detergent and wash.
This method is effective for light-colored fabrics but should be spot-tested first.
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Method 5: Vinegar and Baking Soda (For Light Residue)
This method is best used after most of the oil has already been removed.
Steps:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Soak the stained area for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the stain.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Rinse and wash as usual.
While vinegar alone will not remove heavy grease, it helps eliminate lingering discoloration and odor.
What Not to Do
- Do not dry the garment until the stain is completely gone
- Do not use bleach
- Bleach can react with petroleum oils and worsen discoloration.
- Do not iron over the stain
- Heat permanently bonds oil to fabric fibers.
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Why Transmission Fluid Is Hard to Remove
Transmission fluid contains oils, detergents, and dyes designed to withstand high heat and friction. When it contacts fabric, it penetrates quickly and binds to fibers, especially cotton, denim, and polyester blends. Washing it incorrectly can set the stain permanently, so proper treatment is essential before using a washing machine.
What You Should Do Immediately
The most important step is speed. The sooner you address the stain, the easier it will be to remove.
1. Do not put the garment in the dryer
Heat will permanently set the stain.
2. Blot, don’t rub
Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb excess fluid. Rubbing spreads the stain deeper into the fabric.
3. Check the fabric care label
Some materials, like silk, wool, or acetate, may require professional cleaning.
Removing Transmission Fluid From Specific Fabrics
Denim and Work Clothes
These respond well to dish soap, baking soda, and degreasers. Multiple treatments may be needed.
Synthetic Fabrics
Polyester and nylon release oil more easily but can retain dye stains. Use dish soap and alcohol carefully.
Delicate Fabrics
Silk, wool, and rayon should be taken to a professional cleaner. Home treatments may cause damage.
Final Inspection Before Drying
After washing, inspect the stained area while the garment is still wet. If any stain remains, repeat the treatment process. Once you are certain the stain is gone, air-dry or machine-dry according to the care label.
FAQs
How do I get transmission fluid out of my clothes?
To get transmission fluid out of clothes, start by blotting excess fluid with paper towels and avoid rubbing the stain. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the area to absorb oil, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then brush it off.
Apply liquid dish soap directly to the stain, gently work it into the fabric, and rinse with warm water. Repeat if needed before washing the garment using the warmest water safe for the fabric. Never dry the clothing until the stain is completely gone.
Does transmission fluid leave a stain?
Yes, transmission fluid can leave a noticeable stain if not treated quickly. Because it is petroleum-based and often dyed red or amber, it penetrates fabric fibers easily and can spread. If exposed to heat from a dryer or iron before removal, the stain can become permanent.
Does car oil permanently stain clothes?
Car oil does not always permanently stain clothes, but it can if left untreated or exposed to heat. Fresh oil stains are usually removable with grease-cutting products such as dish soap or liquid laundry detergent. Once the oil has set or been dried, it becomes much harder to remove and may leave a permanent shadow.
What dissolves transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid is dissolved by degreasers and solvents that break down petroleum oils. Liquid dish soap, heavy-duty laundry detergent, rubbing alcohol, and automotive degreasers are effective at loosening transmission fluid from fabric fibers. These products work best when applied directly to the stain before washing.
What is the hardest stain to get out of clothes?
The hardest stains to remove from clothes are typically oil-based stains that have been heat-set, such as transmission fluid, motor oil, grease, and tar. Other difficult stains include permanent ink, dye transfer, and certain paints. Once these stains bond to fabric fibers, complete removal may not be possible.
How do mechanics get oil out of their clothes?
Mechanics typically pre-treat oil-stained clothes before washing by using dish soap, industrial degreasers, or heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent. Many soak their work clothes in warm water with detergent to loosen grease before washing. They also avoid drying garments until stains are fully removed, since heat can permanently set oil stains.
Final words
Getting transmission fluid out of clothes is possible with the right approach and patience. Acting quickly, avoiding heat, and using grease-cutting agents like dish soap, baking soda, and alcohol can restore your clothing and prevent permanent stains.
For tough or dried stains, repeated treatment may be necessary, but persistence pays off.
With proper care, even heavily stained work clothes can be saved and worn again.
