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Will Essential Oils Stain Clothes?

by Nathalie Allard January 06, 2023

Hanged White Shirts on Black Clothes Hangers.

If you are an essential oil enthusiast, you could have heard the rumour that these potent plant extracts can stain your garments. But is it true? Can essential oils really ruin your favourite shirt or dress?

The short answer is: this will depend. Some essential oils are more prone to staining than others, and in addition it depends upon what type of fabric you're using. Here's what you need to know about using essential oils without having to worry about stains.

 

 

Darker essential oils like Patchouli may stain clothes, but proper care can prevent it

First, let's talk about which essential oils are most likely to cause staining. Oils that are darker in colour, such as for example patchouli, clove, and cinnamon, may leave a residue on your garments. It is because they contain a higher concentration of pigments, which can be more difficult to eliminate. However, even these oils are unlikely to cause staining if you use them sparingly and wash your garments promptly after application.

If you are be thinking of purchasing one of Petits Rituels 'essential oil blends, then your Orange Gourmande blend is the most likely to stain your garments.

 

 

Light-coloured essential oils are less likely to stain clothes

Lighter-coloured essential oils, such as for example lavender, lemongrass, spearmint, and ylang ylang are less likely to cause staining. However, any essential oil can leave a mark on your clothes if it's left to sit for an extended period. This is why it's important to wash your clothes after applying essential oils, especially if you've applied a large amount or if you've gotten the oil on your clothes while applying it to your skin.

 

 

Understanding the factors that affect staining on different fabrics

Now let's talk about fabric. Some fabrics are more prone to staining than others. Natural fibres, such as cotton and linen, absorb essential oils more easily and are more likely to retain stains. Synthetic fibres, such as for instance polyester and nylon, are less prone to staining but can still be affected if the essential oil is left to sit for an extended period of time.

So, can essential oils stain clothes? In some cases, yes. However, the chances of staining can be greatly minimized by using caution when applying essential oils and washing your clothes promptly after application. It's also a good idea to spot- test any essential oil on a small, inconspicuous area of fabric before using it extensively to ensure that it does not cause any staining.

In conclusion, essential oils can potentially stain clothes, but with proper care and precautions, you can use these potent plant extracts without worrying about ruining your favourite outfits.

Photo by Leticia Ribeiro





Nathalie Allard
Nathalie Allard

Author

Nathalie Allard is an Artisan Perfumer and the founder of Petits Rituels. She’s known for creating beautiful room-transforming 100% natural fragrances with real therapeutic benefits.



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