Tide's motor-oil guide describes a short detergent soak before the affected garment enters the washer. Its example uses Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid, so the current product directions should determine the dilution and dose. The washer type also affects whether detergent goes into a dispenser or directly into the drum.

Illustrative image
Illustrative image.

Wash only within the clothing label's permitted temperature and cycle, then unload promptly. If oil remains, Tide advises repeating an appropriate treatment before using the dryer, since drying can set the stain. This inspection step is important even when the rest of the load looks clean; product fragrance and a completed cycle do not show whether the original oily patch has disappeared.

Tide's instructions place inspection before drying, rather than treating the end of the wash as proof of removal.