Oil-based stains are more difficult to remove, but they can be cleaned with soap and water. Let’s take a look at how each type of stain is treated. Water-based stains: First, wet the area with water to remove a water-based stain. Then use a detergent to scrub the stain until it disappears. For example, grape juice can make a grapefruit juice stain hard to remove. Oils can also cause permanent stains if left on the surface for a long time. One example of an oil-based stain that is very difficult to remove is lipstick.