How to Remove Mud Stains

Are Mud Stains Permanent?

Mud stains usually aren’t permanent if you treat them the right way - but they can set in for good if left too long or if the garment is washed and dried before the stain is removed. Factors that make mud stains harder to remove include:

• High clay content in the soil, which can cling stubbornly to fibers
• Organic matter, like grass or plant debris, can leave behind tannin stains
• Improper washing, such as using hot water too soon, can “cook” proteins into the fabric

How Do You Get Dirt Stains Out of Clothes?

The good news? Dirt and mud are often easier to remove than you might think. With the right steps, you can lift these stains and have your clothes looking fresh again. Read on to learn exactly how to get mud stains out of clothes.

1. Let the Mud Dry Completely

The first step (and this is a very important one) is to do nothing. Really! Be patient and don’t give in to the overwhelming urge to treat the stain right away.

Although it seems counterintuitive and different from many other stains, you must let the mud stain set and dry before you can remove it. This is because wiping a damp mud stain makes it worse by allowing the particles to further penetrate the spaces between the fabric fibers, embedding them, and making them harder to remove in the long run.

2. Remove the Excess Soil

After waiting for the wet stain to dry and harden, use a dull knife, small vacuum, or brush to scrape off any excess dirt particles before pre-treating.

3. Pre-Treat the Stain

Next, pre-treat with a paste made of equal parts ARM & HAMMER™ Super Washing Soda Detergent Booster or ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda mixed with water. Start with ½ cup of baking soda; you can add more if it’s necessary. Apply the paste to the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for 30 minutes or longer.

Remember to test the paste in an area of the clothing that isn’t obvious. You want to be sure it won’t damage the fabric before proceeding.

4. Rinse with Colder Water

Rinse the stain with cold water, as it helps prevent the stain from setting. Hold the fabric so the water runs through the back of the stain. This pushes dirt out instead of driving it deeper into the fibers.

5. Wash According to Care Label

After rinsing, wash the garment at the warmest water temperature safe for the fabric, as shown on the care label. If you’re figuring out how to get mud out of pants or how to remove dirt stains from jeans, this step is key. For stubborn or set-in stains, reach for ARM & HAMMER™ Deep Clean Stain Formula Sparkling Clean Laundry Detergent, designed to dig deep between fibers to lift away everyday dirt, mud, and odors while leaving behind a fresh, sparkling clean scent. Perfect for sweat-, dirt-, and mud-soaked clothes, it works in all machines and at any wash temperature.

6. Check for Odors

Before drying, check for any lingering odors - heat can lock them in for good. If they persist, wash the garment again with ARM & HAMMER™ Deep Clean Odor Formula Radiant Burst Laundry Detergent, a powerful odor-fighting formula that leaves clothes smelling fresh and clean.

7. Dry Naturally for Best Results

Once the garment is odor-free, air-dry or sun-dry it. Sunlight naturally brightens and freshens fabric, boosting stain and odor removal results. Avoid machine drying whenever possible.

8. Repeat If Needed

Some stains and odors may require more than one wash to fully remove. If needed, simply repeat the same cleaning steps until the garment is completely clean and fresh.

How Do You Remove Mud Stains From White Clothes?

To remove mud stains from white clothes, follow the same instructions, washing light-colored clothes only with other similar light or white clothing.

There you have it. You’re now an expert-in-training on how to get rid of mud stains. The only thing left is convincing your kids to stay out of the mud... but that’s a problem for another day.