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How to Remove Mud & Dirt Stains From Clothing

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Mud stains can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can restore your clothes to their original condition. In most cases, Part 1 will do the job, but Part 2 is available for tougher, more stubborn stains.​

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You’ll need:

  • Baking soda or liquid dish soap

  • Soft-bristled brush

  • Powdered oxygen bleach (e.g., OxiClean) for stain removal

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SKIP TO:

- Part 1 - Mud / Dirt Spots

- Part 2 - Remove Mud / Dirt Stains

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How to Remove Dirt or Mud Stains From Clothing.jpg

Part 1: Spot Removal - How to Remove Mud and Dirt Spots From Clothing

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  1. Let the stain dry: If the mud is still wet, let it dry completely. Once dry, gently brush or wipe away any loose bits of mud or dirt. 

  2. Create a baking soda paste: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. If you don’t have baking soda, liquid dish soap can be used as an alternative to help lift the stain from the fabric.

  3. Agitate and rinse: Over the sink, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the stained area while slowly dripping water over the mud spot to help lift the stain.

  4. Repeat if necessary: If the stain persists, repeat steps 2 and 3 until the mud spot is fully removed.

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

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If the above method doesn't fully eliminate the stain, follow these additional steps to break down any remaining mud pigments.

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  1. Prepare an oxygen bleach solution: Mix 1 gallon of hot water with the maximum recommended amount of oxygen bleach (follow the product’s instructions).

  2. Soak the garment: Submerge the stained garment in the oxygen bleach solution and allow it to 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. Repeat if needed: If the stain persists, repeat step 2 until the stain is fully removed.

  5. Wash the garment: After the stain is gone, wash the garment as usual or run a rinse and spin cycle in your washing machine to remove any remaining oxygen bleach residue.

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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.

 

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