Last Updated on September 11, 2021

Biking in all its glory and benefits, well most often than not, is synonymous with getting ourselves dirty. This is practically true especially when we are into mountain biking. 

When you are out having fun, having bike problems while out on trails is part of the experience. And the best part is, we have to do the repairs ourselves. This is when we get down and greasy. 

Even on routine maintenance, we do get bike grease stains even if we avoid not. Bike grease is exposed to harsh environments and is one of the most stubborn types of stains to remove. 

And even if you are just out on a leisurely spin, the chances that you will get bike grease is inevitable. Lucky for us, there are several ways to get rid of these stains. We can either use day-to-day chemicals that are readily available at home, or there is also a more biologically friendly approach. 

So stick around as we tackle how to remove bike grease from our clothes.

Chemicals to Use for Grease Removal

Fortunately for us, there is a wide variety of home chemicals that we can use for grease removal. Here are some that you might already have at home:

• Shampoos
• Bar soaps
• Baking soda
• Spot Remover
• Washing powder or laundry detergent
• Dishwashing liquid

Their effectiveness may vary but that will depend on how they are applied. Any avid bike will know how easy it is to get stained but you only have to adhere to one rule.

You must also be mindful of fabric type since many are quite sensitive to chemicals and might get damaged in the process of fabric removal. 

Safety During Application

If you have sensitive skin, make sure that you wear rubber gloves before handling the chemicals. It is also best that you do research beforehand especially if you are aware of your skin condition. 

How to remove bike grease stains using liquid detergent?

Although this is common knowledge many people still do not know that dishwashing liquid is a very effective option when dealing with grease removal from fabrics. What you need to do is to follow the following steps:

Step 1

Apply the necessary amount to the area with grease strain. Dishwashing liquids, strong shampoo, and liquid laundry detergent tend to break down oil and grease, especially dishwashing liquids.

That is why they are used to wash all those greasy dishes and kitchen utensils. When removing stains, you can apply an ample amount to the grease stain and gently brush it with an old toothbrush.

You can also mix any of these with baking soda and turn it into a paste. You can then apply it to the stained area and brush gently until it foams.

Step 2

Use cold water to rinse the stained area. Allow the detergent or mixture to soak on the stained area for at least 2 minutes. After that, rinse it thoroughly in running cold water. Make sure that the stained part is facing down and you are rinsing through the back of the fabric. 

Step 3

Continue washing your clothes in the washing machine as per their normal instructions as stated in the care label. Air-dry your clothes and check if the grease stain has disappeared, if not, you can repeat the steps above until it is fully removed. 

Removing Grease Stains Using Laundry Powder

If you are opting for this method, this is perfect when the fabric you are using is made out of synthetic materials. 

Step 1

Do pre-treatment using the washing powder. Use a tiny amount of washing powder and apply it to the stained area. Gently rub it in and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. 

Step 2

Rinse the stained area under running cold water. Using the same method as with liquid detergents, run the tap water from the back towards the front of the stained area to remove the grease from the surface. 

Step 3

Continue washing your clothes inside the washing machine as per their normal instructions as stated in the care label. Wash it as you do with the regular laundry to remove grease from clothes. Let the stained clothing air dry. Do take note that this process does not apply to wool or silk fabrics. 

Steps on Removing Grease Stains Using Baking Soda

If you are opting for a more biologically friendly approach, then this process is perfect for you. 

Step 1

Expose the grease-stained area and sprinkle a bit of baking soda on it. Baking soda is very effective when used against grease, grease stain, and bike grease contaminations especially when you are dealing with a very delicate fabric.

Baking soda works in a way that it draws the grease out from the fabric without causing harm to the fibers. 

Step 2

Allow the baking soda to sit on the fabric for at least 8 hours or overnight. Once you brush it off in the morning, you will notice that a portion of the stain was already absorbed by the baking soda. 

Step 3

Wash the clothing as per care label instructions. Hand washing is the best option if you want to remove grease stains from delicate fabrics. Use washing detergent as instructed in the manual.

Removing Grease Stains Using Hot Water And Spot Remover

Step 1

Spray an ample amount of spot remover on the bike grease stain. Gently use a toothbrush to scrub the stain off of the fabric. Let the remover sit for a while as you are boiling the water. 

Step 2

Place your garment in a deep tub or a washbasin and immerse it in hot water. Make sure that you pour the hot water from a higher point directly towards the grease-stained area. 

Step 3

This time around, you have to turn the garment inside-out and repeat the steps above to remove the grease out of clothes.

Step 4

Wash your clothing with the prescribed detergent and air dry to remove grease stains.

Conclusion

Grease stains are easily removed giving the right knowledge and correct bike grease stain removal methodology in the removal process. Use this guide every time you get stained and do not let these experiences hinder the fun you get out of riding.