How to Remove Grass Stains From Clothing

Part 1: Spot Removal - How to Remove Grass Spots From Clothing

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1. Remove any excess grass bits: Gently scrape or blot away any grass stems or solids with a soft-bristled brush or a clean towel. Removing the dry soils is best done before adding a wet cleaning agent.

2. Apply a spot cleaner: Choose a cleaning agent:

   • Enzyme cleaner (like Biokleen Bac Out) is ideal for grass stains as enzymes are excellent at breaking down organic and biological stains.

   • If you don't have an enzyme cleaning product, liquid dish soap will work in a pinch.

3. Tamp and agitate: Lightly tamp or pat the cleaner into the stained area. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen the stain. 

4. Agitate gently: Lightly agitate the stained area with a soft-bristled brush

5. Rinse: Rinse the stained area with cold water.

6. Repeat if necessary: If any grass stain remains, repeat steps 2–4 until most of the stain is removed before moving to the stain removal step.

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PART 2: Stain Removal - How to Remove Set-In Grass Stains From Clothing

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Even after spot cleaning, grass often leaves a green stain behind. This is due to chlorophyll, a natural pigment that absorbs red and blue light and reflects green light. Thankfully, chlorophyll pigments can be broken down using an oxidizing agent like oxygen bleach.

Before moving on to Part 2, make sure all grass solids have been completely removed during the spot removal process. The fabric should feel normal to the touch, with only a green discoloration remaining. If any solid pieces or dark green spots remain, repeat Part 1 before using this stain removal step. 

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1. Mix the oxygen bleach: In a bucket or basin, mix hot water with the recommended amount of powdered oxygen bleach (follow the instructions on the product).

2. Soak the stained fabric: Submerge the stained item in the solution and let it soak for up to 8 hours or until the stain is gone.

3. Agitate gently: During the soaking process, lightly agitate the stained area with a soft-bristled brush every 1-2 hours to help lift the stain.

4. Rinse and wash: Once the stain is gone, rinse the garment thoroughly. Then, wash it as usual in the washing machine, or run a rinse and spin cycle to remove any remaining oxygen bleach.

5. Repeat if needed: If the stain persists, repeat the soaking process until it’s completely gone.

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​Note: Oxygen bleach is safe for most fabrics, including colored and dark fabrics, and won’t damage the color.

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Final Tips

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• Follow Product Directions: Always follow the instructions on stain removal agents, including mixing concentrations and application methods, for optimal results.

• Handle Delicates with Care: Avoid using these methods on delicate materials such as wool, silk, or other natural fibers. For these fabrics, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner to avoid damage.

• Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Always test cleaning products on a small, hidden area of the fabric, or on a sample piece of fabric, to ensure compatibility with the material before applying them to the stain.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not use oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) outdoors or in direct sunlight, as the sun can accelerate the bleaching effect and may cause fabric damage.

• Use at Your Own Risk: These methods are offered for informational purposes, and we recommend using them at your own risk. Always exercise caution and, if unsure, consult a professional.