To Remove Grease Spots.
Where soap and hot water can be used, wash the spots in very hot water, using plenty of soap; then rinse well. French chalk or fuller’s earth may be powdered and mixed with cold water, to make a thick paste. Spread this on the grease spot and let it remain for several days; then brush off. If the stain has not fully disappeared, apply the mixture a second time.
Oxgall may be used on dark colors; if purified, it may be used on any color. It can sometimes be bought at a druggist’s in a purified state. Chemists also combine oxgall with turpentine and other cleaning agents. This preparation is effective and safe in removing grease.
In the case of delicate fabrics that can be washed, the spots may be rubbed with yolk of egg before the washing. Naphtha is usually effective in removing grease.
Here is still another way. Put a piece of blotting paper under the grease spot and another over it. Place a warm iron on the upper one. After a while remove the iron and paper, and, if the grease has not entirely disappeared, repeat the process with fresh paper.
If a large amount of oil or grease be spilled on a flat surface, immediately cover the place thickly with whiting, wheat flour, or meal of any kind. This will absorb some of the oily substance, and prevent it from spreading. After an hour or two brush off this substance and apply the usual remedies.
Grease spots on carpets may be taken out by covering the spots with fuller’s earth, wet with spirits of turpentine. Let it stand until the earth is a fine dry powder.
Delicate fabrics, like silk, crêpe, ribbons, scarfs, etc., may be spread on a clean cloth and then be covered with powdered French chalk or fuller’s earth. Roll up the article and put away for a few weeks and it will become clean.