How do you remove a grease stain from silk, nylon and spandex fabrics?

Removing grease from silk and synthetic fabrics is tricky and may take up to an hour. The necessary supplies are cornmeal, dry cleaning solvent, a dry spotter, a wet spotter and vinegar. For best results, treat the stain as quickly as possible.

1. Apply the absorbent material

   Start by blotting up the excess grease with a clean paper towel. Cover the area in cornmeal, and let it sit 10 minutes. Brush the cornmeal away using a stiff-bristled brush.

2. Apply dry-cleaning solvent

   Use a sponge to apply dry-cleaning solvent to the stain. Start from the center of the stain, and work outwards.

3. Use dry spotter on the stain

   Dry spotter is a solution of 1 part coconut oil to 8 parts dry-cleaning solvent. Dampen two absorbent pads with the dry spotter. Place one under the stain and the other on top. Keep the top pad moist, keeping the stain covered for as long as grease is being lifted.

4. Flush the area

   Use the dry-cleaning solvent to flush the dry solvent away. This may be sufficient for stain removal.

5. Apply wet spotter and vinegar

   If the stain persists, use a wet spotter mixed with a few drops of vinegar. A wet spotter consists of 1 part glycerine, 1 part dishwashing liquid and 8 parts water. Follow the same manner for applying the dry spotter, moistening two pads and keeping the stain covered while grease is being lifted.

6. Flush the area and dry

   Use water to completely flush the area of the wet spotter. Allow the fabric to air dry.