What can completely remove engine oil from hands?
2 Answers
Here are methods to remove engine oil from hands: 1. Method 1: Engine oil is a mixture of several alkanes and is an organic substance. According to the principle of 'like dissolves like', organic substances can be used to dissolve engine oil. However, it's best to choose an organic substance that is also soluble in water to avoid secondary pollution. 2. Method 2: The most convenient option is to use alcohol, which can dissolve both organic solvents and water. The higher the alcohol concentration, the better, with anhydrous alcohol being the best. Alcohol can be purchased at pharmacies or chemical stores. 3. Method 3: If the stain is oily and doesn't absorb water, 'fight oil with oil'—use a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in gasoline to wipe, allowing the oily substance to dissolve in the gasoline and then transfer to the cloth.
Having worked in an auto repair shop for years, I've encountered common issues with engine oil on hands. The oil's greasy nature makes it stick to the skin, difficult to wash off and prone to residue. It's advisable to first wipe off surface oil with a cloth or paper towel to reduce the burden—don't delay. Use strong detergents like dish soap or professional hand cleaning paste, apply to wet hands, and scrub for 1-2 minutes, focusing on cleaning nail crevices and joints with a soft brush. Hotter water helps emulsify the grease—rinse thoroughly and check that the slippery sensation is gone. If not completely removed, oil can clog pores and potentially cause dermatitis, especially for sensitive skin. Make it a habit to wash immediately after work and wear rubber gloves to prevent contamination. Keep a bottle of hand cleaning paste in your toolbox for daily use, making oil removal quick and convenient.