ÔME HOUSEKEEPING
August 15, 2026 at 10:18:31 PM
Sommières earth: the dry stain remover for grease stains and odors
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Sommières earth is a naturally occurring smectite clay (montmorillonite). It can absorb up to 80% of its weight in water and grease. This extraordinary absorbing capacity makes it an unmatched stain remover - no water, no rubbing, no risk of ring marks.
What is Sommières earth?
Sommières earth works by capillary action: its micro-pores literally draw the grease or liquid out of the surface. It doesn't rub the stain away, it absorbs it.
That's why it must be used DRY and on a DRY surface. As soon as it gets wet, it turns into mud and loses all absorbent power. This is rule number one, absolute, without exception.
It is also a natural deodorizer: it absorbs odor-causing molecules at the same time as the stain.
One single, absolute rule: Sommières clay is used DRY. Never with water. Never. That's what makes it so effective.
Which surfaces to use it on
TEXTILES AND CLOTHING - Grease, oil, butter, makeup, or grime stains: sprinkle generously, leave to work for at least 2-3 hours (overnight for stubborn or old stains), vacuum or brush off. Then wash normally.
CARPETS AND RUGS - Same method. Sprinkle, leave to work, vacuum. Ideal for greasy food stains or wine (the greasy part of wine).
LEATHER AND FAUX LEATHER - Grease stains on sofas, bags, car seats: sprinkle, wait at least 2 hours, brush gently.
MARBLE - Marble is porous and reacts poorly to liquids. Sommières earth is one of the few solutions for removing stains from marble without risk.
Instructions and tips
Standard instructions:
1. Surface and earth MUST be dry
2. Sprinkle generously over the stain
3. Leave to work for at least 2-3 hours, overnight for old stains
4. Vacuum or brush gently
5. Wash if needed
Tip for old, ingrained stains: heat the earth in the oven or microwave to about 60°C for 15 minutes before application. Heat boosts its absorbing power.
Tip
To maximize absorption, never rub the stain before applying the earth. Rubbing spreads the grease and pushes it deeper into the fibers. Always apply the earth first.
Conclusion
Sommières earth is unbeatable for any greasy stain on a porous or fabric surface. No other natural product works as well without risk of ring marks. The condition: be patient enough to let it work, and never wet it.
