Oil on Tile & Grout

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Oil stains spread quickly — avoid rubbing and treat before the oil soaks deeper into the fibers.

checklistTreatment Steps

Step 1: Remove Excess Oil

Use a spoon or blunt knife to gently lift off any excess oil. Do not rub — this spreads the stain and pushes it deeper.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

Cover the stain generously with baking soda or talcum powder. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes — it will absorb the oil from the fibers.

Step 3: Brush Away and Apply Dish Soap

Brush off the powder, then apply a generous amount of dish soap directly to the stain. Dish soap is specifically designed to cut through grease.

Step 4: Work In and Rinse

Gently work the soap into the stain with your fingers. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat if needed before washing.

Step 5: Special Care for Tile & Grout

For grout specifically, after cleaning, apply a clear grout sealer once dry. This prevents future staining and makes the next clean much easier. Re-seal grout every 12–18 months.

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Critical Warning

Grout is porous and absorbs stains, mould, and discolouration much faster than tile. Treat any spill on grout immediately — sealed tile is far more forgiving. Avoid acidic cleaners (like vinegar) on natural stone tile or marble — they etch the surface permanently. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners on stone.

Supplies Needed

check_circleBaking Soda or Talcum Powder
check_circleLiquid Dish Soap
check_circleSpoon or Blunt Knife
check_circleWarm Water

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Pro Tip

WD-40 can actually help with stubborn oil stains — spray a small amount, let it sit for 5 minutes, then treat with dish soap. The oil in WD-40 helps lift the cooking oil out. — Warm water works well on tile. For grout, an old toothbrush plus a baking soda paste (or oxygen bleach) reaches deep into the porous joints.