It happens to the best of us – you’re out playing with the kids or enjoying a game of touch football with friends when suddenly you find yourself with a grass stain on your clothes. Here’s how to get grass stains out of clothes easily, so you can get back to enjoying your day.
To get grass stains out of clothes, first, blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb any excess moisture. Next, mix a solution of warm water and laundry detergent and apply it directly to the stain. Gently rub the solution into the stain using a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. Allow the solution to sit on the stain for at least 10 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
Grass stains on clothing can be frustrating. But don’t worry – with the right techniques, you can get fresh and dried grass stains out of any fabric.
Causes of Grass Stains
Grass contains chlorophyll, a green pigment that easily transfers to fabric. When pressure is applied, such as laying or sitting on grass, the green pigments can cling to clothing quite stubbornly.
Grass stains may also contain traces of dirt, pollen, plant sap, and mud that help bind the green chlorophyll to the fibers. These additional substances make grass stains even more challenging to remove.
Removing Fresh Grass Stains
When you first notice a grass stain, act quickly for the best chance of removing it completely.
Pre-treating Dried Grass Stains
If the grass stain has already dried, you’ll need to pre-treat it before washing. This helps loosen up the chlorophyll and bonded substances.
An enzyme pretreatment laundry product works very well for this task. Apply it directly to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before washing.
Washing Grass Stains
After pretreating, it’s time to wash the garment. You can wash grass stains by hand or in the washing machine.
Hand Washing
If the fabric is delicate, hand wash it in cold water using a small amount of laundry detergent. Gently rub the fabric together to loosen up the grass stain. Rinse thoroughly.
Machine Washing
For machine washing, use the cold or warm water setting and your regular laundry detergent. Wash similar colors together – the agitation of the machine will help loosen the stain.
Using Laundry Products on Grass Stains
Using the right products during laundering can boost your stain-fighting power. Here are some options:
Detergent
Liquid detergents often work better than powder detergents on tough stains. Make sure to use an enzyme-based detergent, as enzymes are designed to break down organic matter like grass stains.
Oxygen Bleach
An oxygen bleach containing sodium percarbonate can help brighten clothing and lift grass stains without the harshness of chlorine bleach. Check the laundry label first to see if bleach can be used.
Vinegar
The acetic acid in distilled white vinegar helps dissolve grass stains. Add 1 cup of vinegar to the wash cycle. You can also pre-soak garments in a vinegar solution.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that lifts stains and brightens laundry. Sprinkle it directly on dampened stains and launder as usual. It pairs well with vinegar.
Tips for Avoiding Future Grass Stains
Once you’ve conquered those pesky grass stains, here are some tips to avoid more in the future:
Pick Grass-Friendly Fabrics
Some fabrics stain more easily than others. Choose garments made from nylon, polyester, or acrylic when headed outdoors. Avoid silk, linen, and cotton.
Apply Stain Guard
Pretreating clothing with a stain guard like Scotchgard creates a barrier that prevents stains from setting in. Reapply after several washes.
Remove Stains Quickly
When you get a grass stain, take action right away:
Rinse in Cold Water
Rinsing right after staining helps prevent grass particles from bonding to fibers.
Blot Excess Moisture
Blotting ensures moisture doesn’t spread the stain while air drying.
Conclusion
With persistence and the right techniques, you can successfully remove fresh and dried grass stains from clothing and upholstery. Always act quickly when stains occur and choose grass-friendly fabrics to minimize frustration. Remember to check care labels and wash in cool water when tackling your next grass stain challenge.
FAQs
What is the best way to get out old, set-in grass stains?
For old stains, soak the fabric in an enzymatic pretreatment or oxygen bleach solution before washing. Longer soaking times will help loosen the bonded grass particles.
Can I use chlorine bleach on grass stains?
Check the care label first, as chlorine bleach can damage some fabrics. Oxygen bleach is safer for colors. Spot test chlorine bleach first on an inconspicuous area.
How do I get grass stains out of cotton?
Cotton is prone to staining but you can successfully remove grass stains with pretreating and cold water washing. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain.
What removes grass stains from white clothes?
For white clothes, apply an oxygen bleach pretreatment and soak for up to 30 minutes before washing in cold water with bleach-safe detergent. Air dry in sunlight to brighten.
How do you get rid of grass stains on shoes?
Mix baking soda and water to make a paste and scrub onto stained sneakers with an old toothbrush. Rinse clean and stuff shoes with paper towels to draw out moisture.
