Spring showers bring flowers—and mud, unfortunately. There’s nothing like fresh air and time outdoors walking the dog or hiking the trails in the springtime. But mud can sometimes become an unwelcome addition to your wardrobe.
No need to stress. Getting mud out of clothes is simple when you follow a few easy steps and tips for washable clothing below.
Step 1: Take Time to Let the Mud Dry
Resist the urge to start removing mud immediately, because rubbing it can spread the mud deeper into the fabric. Instead, set the item aside to air dry.
Step 2: Gently Remove What You Can to Make Getting Mud Out of Clothes Possible
Once the item is dry, use a butter knife or spoon to lightly remove the dried pieces of mud without pushing it deeper into the fabric. Or you can use a handheld vacuum to remove as much mud as possible.
Step 3: Apply a Stain Remover to Help Get Rid of Mud Stains
Stain removers are a powerful tool for getting mud out of clothes. Use whatever kind you have on hand, whether it’s gel, liquid or spray and let the clothing sit for five minutes. There’s no need to rinse out the stain remover.
Step 4: Let Detergent Get to Work
Now it’s time to wash your item to let the detergent do its work. Follow the care instructions on the label and use the correct amount of detergent based on your washing machine’s instructions.
Step 5: Dry the Item When No Mud Remains
When you pull the clothing out of the washer, closely inspect the fabric. Does any mud remain? If so, repeat the steps above starting with applying stain remover. When the mud is completely removed, dry the item as usual following the care instructions on the label.
A Few Exceptions
Some fabrics require slightly different treatment to get rid of mud stains, especially items that can’t be washed in your washing machine.
Leather Garments
If the mud has not dried yet, use a damp towel to gently wipe the mud off the leather item. Then lightly apply pressure with a dry cloth to remove any moisture from the leather.
Has the mud already dried? No problem. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove as much of the mud as possible. Then use a damp cloth to rub off any remaining mud, followed by applying a dry cloth. Drying the leather helps prevent water stains.
Running Shoes
Running shoes are bound to get muddy during a morning run. But you can keep them looking sharp in a few simple steps.
Step 1: Use a dry paper towel to remove as much mud as possible.
Step 2: Measure two cups of warm water. Add one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and mix.
Step 3: Use a soft-bristled brush such as a toothbrush to lightly scrub the shoe’s fabric with a small amount of the solution. Work your way around the shoe.
Step 4: Use a damp paper towel to remove extra soap.
Step 5: Gently press the shoes with a dry paper towel to remove excess moisture. Then let the shoes air dry away from direct heat and sunlight.
Mud-free Made Easy
Welcome the spring season—even the rainy days—because now you know how to get mud stains out of clothes like a pro. So, go out for a jog or have a picnic with friends. You can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about mud stains.