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How to get grease and cooking oil out of a polypropylene or polyester rug

Act fast, blot rather than rub, and use as little liquid as possible. Below is a step-by-step method for removing grease and cooking oil from a polypropylene or polyester rug, with the precautions that matter for polypropylene and polyester fibres.

By the Rug Kingdom team, Rug Kingdom (a trading name of Flair Furniture Ltd) · Published · Product details from our catalogue as of

Before you start

Check the care label on your rug or its product page first; it overrides general advice. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden corner and wait for it to dry before treating the stain. Use white cloths or kitchen roll so no dye transfers to the rug.

Step by step: grease and cooking oil on a polypropylene or polyester rug

  1. Scrape away any solid residue with a blunt knife.
  2. Sprinkle cornflour or bicarbonate of soda over the stain to absorb the oil, leave for 15 to 30 minutes, then vacuum.
  3. Dab with a solution of clear washing-up liquid (designed to cut grease) and warm, not hot, water, then blot.
  4. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.

Oil-based stains cling to synthetic fibres, so the absorbent powder step matters.

Why polypropylene and polyester needs care

Polypropylene and polyester fibres absorb very little water, so water-based stains usually lift well with blotting and a mild detergent. Oily stains bind to synthetics more readily, and high heat can melt or glaze the fibres, so keep irons and hairdryers away.

When to call a professional

Call a professional rug cleaner if the stain is large, has dried in, keeps reappearing as the rug dries (wicking), or if the rug is valuable, handmade or made of a delicate fibre. Tell them what the stain is and what you have already tried, as some home treatments make professional cleaning harder.

Polypropylene and polyester rugs in our range

We currently list 592 polypropylene and polyester rugs. Each product page gives the maker's own care instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Can you get grease and cooking oil out of a polypropylene or polyester rug?

Often, yes, if you act quickly. Blot, dilute and treat gently following the steps above. Old or set-in stains may need a professional rug cleaner.

What should I avoid when cleaning grease and cooking oil from a polypropylene or polyester rug?

Oil-based stains cling to synthetic fibres, so the absorbent powder step matters. Polypropylene and polyester fibres absorb very little water, so water-based stains usually lift well with blotting and a mild detergent.

Should I rub a stain on a rug?

No. Rubbing spreads the stain and can fray or felt the fibres. Blot from the outside of the stain towards the centre.

How do I dry a polypropylene or polyester rug after spot cleaning?

Blot with a dry towel, pressing firmly, then let it air dry with good ventilation. Avoid direct high heat. Prop up the area so air reaches the back if the rug was wetted through.

Prices, stock and exact specifications change, so always check the product page before you order: every product page lists the maker's size, material, construction and care details. Delivery is free and tracked to England, Wales and mainland Scotland, and you have 14 days to change your mind. See delivery and returns.