Dirty, grease, oil, and paint stains on hands are one of the daily challenges common to a mechanic. If the hands are left without proper cleaning, the up can dry up and start cracking. Also, prolonged skin contact with grease and oil can lead to certain skin conditions such as dermatitis or skin cancer.
I would be teaching you how to clean mechanic hands which is often beyond the use of water and soap, and this will save you hours you would have spent at the sink trying to wash your hands clean.
Tips for Cleaning Mechanic Hands
- Always wash your hands properly before cleaning the injured part
- Always put on your hand gloves when possible.
- Carry out the task gently.
- Keep methylated spirits and iodine close or in your safety box.
How to Clean Mechanic Hands
Cleaning grease and engine oil from your hands have so many benefits. Here are some ways to properly care for your hands after embarking on a mechanical fix.
1. The Use of salt/sugar for scrubbing
A simple hand wash with water and soap often would not clear away all the stains. Therefore scrubbing your hands with salt or sugar could help eliminate stubborn stains.
Add a spoonful of sugar or salt to a half tablespoon of water. Scrub your hands with it, then use a pumice stone to rub your hands to help remove the stubborn stains. Then rinse your hands and wash with soap and water to remove leftover stains.
2. The Use of WD-40 lubricant
WD-40 is an oil-based lubricant that plays a significant role in loosening tight screws and bolts. Aside from its function as a lubricant, it can also be used to clean oil and grease from mechanic hands.
Apply WD-40 lubricant on your hands by spraying, then rub your hands and spread the oil all over the affected areas. Allow 10 minutes; wipe off the excess fat with a paper towel. Finally, wash your hand using soapy water, then rinse and dry off. Repeat the process if there are still traces of oil in your hands.
3. The Use of Olive oil or Baby oil
This method could be used to clean mechanical hands and is skin-friendly.
Place a drop of the oil on your hands and gently rub it all over the palm, ensuring it gets between the fingers and even the knuckles. Leave for 10 minutes, rinse with enough water and detergent, then dry. Repeat the process if there are still leftover stains.
4. The Use of Sugar/Salt and Cooking Oil.
This method is a home remedy for cleaning greasy stains.
Make a mixture of about three teaspoons of sugar with cooking oil. Rub the mixture properly all over your hands, concentrating on the areas with deep stains, then rinse off with lukewarm running water. If some colors are left under the nail, remove them using a toothpick or nail stick.
FAQs
Q: Which solvent can be used to remove grease from the hand?
A solvent such as Conc. isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, can do a great job removing grease from hands. Also, hand sanitizers can equally be helpful in the removal of fat from hands.
Q: How Mechanics Can Avoid Dings and Cuts?
Mechanics also have to deal with dings and cuts on arms and hands in addition to having dirty hands.
Those working with mechanical parts have been warned by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics to be careful about sensitive mechanical parts and edges. Additionally, always use a wrench while working on a tough bolt. Always Work calmly and safely to prevent accidents like this.
Q: How do you remove engine oil from your skin?
There are a few methods that could be used to get oil off the skin, such as:
- Scrub your hands with instant coffee before washing them.
- Scrub your hands with WD-40.
- Mix liquid soap and sugar.
- Scrub the hand with a hand cleaner containing pumice.
- The use of a water-optional citrus-based cleanser.
Q: How do I clean greasy mechanic uniforms?
For easy cleaning of Greasy mechanic clothes
- Soak uniform in Soda Water
- Wash with Dish Soap as dishwashing soap can cut through oil and grease, making it a great way to cut through the stains in your uniform.
- Wash with Baking Soda, baby powder, or cornstarch will get the work done.
Conclusion
You can always protect your hands with mechanic gloves when it’s possible to avoid oil or grease stains while working. But as we know, there are times when using gloves seems likely; therefore, washing off your hands as soon as you finish your work could be the best thing to do.
You could try homemade remedies such as the combination of sugar/salt and cooking oil if you have very delicate skin. Kindly drop your questions/suggestions in the comment section.
As an Amazon Service LLC Program Associate, V. Auto Basics earns from qualifying purchases. See Our Affiliate disclaimer.
