Whoa would never think to this technique on my own

The sooner you address a grease stain, the better your chances of removing it completely. As soon as you notice the stain, grab a piece of white chalk. Avoid colored chalks, as they might leave a pigment stain on your fabric, which would only add to your problems.
Step 2: Blot the Stain (Optional)
If the grease stain is fresh and particularly thick, you might want to start by gently blotting it with a paper towel to remove any excess oil. Be careful not to rub the stain, as that can push the grease deeper into the fabric fibers.
Step 3: Rub the Chalk on the Stain
Take your white chalk and rub it generously over the grease stain. Make sure to cover the entire affected area. The chalk should leave a fine, powdery residue on the fabric. For larger stains, feel free to use multiple pieces of chalk if necessary. The goal here is to let the chalk absorb as much of the grease as possible.
Step 4: Let It Sit
Once you’ve covered the stain with chalk, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the chalk enough time to absorb the grease from the fabric. If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn stain, you can leave it on for longer or even apply a second round of chalk.
Step 5: Brush Away the Chalk
After the chalk has had time to work its magic, gently brush away the powdery residue using your hands, a soft cloth, or even a small brush. You should already notice a significant improvement in the stain’s appearance.
Step 6: Wash as Usual