How Do I Clean Mud Out of a White Jacket?
How you clean a mud-stained white jacket can make the difference between a jacket that is destined for the rag pile to one that can be worn again and again. Mud is a protein stain, and should be treated the same as other protein stains such as blood and egg yolk. Treat the stain at home only if the jacket does not contain "dry clean only" instructions. If the jacket states "dry clean only," you should take it to the cleaners and let them know about the stain. The Ohio State University Extension Office advises taking the garment to the cleaners within 24 to 48 hours. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Deal with the stain as soon as possible. If you splash mud on your jacket while you are out and about, use a stain removal pen right away if you carry one with you. Carrying such a pen is a good idea if you tend to wear white clothing. When you get home, immediately address the stain before it has a chance to set.
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Rinse all of the excess mud out of the jacket using cold water. If there are only a few stains, and they are dry, brush away the excess with a dry toothbrush. Do this with care, as you don't want to get any mud on the white garment that could leave an additional stain.
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Spray the mud stain with stain remover. The Soap and Detergent Association suggests pretreating with laundry detergent or" a product containing enzymes." Take a toothbrush and brush the stain remover into the stain. This permits the stain remover to penetrate the fiber of the jacket. This method can remove stubborn stains, even on white clothing.
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Soak the mud-stained jacket in cold water for an hour or overnight. You can also run it through the cold water cycle on your washing machine if you prefer.
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Spray the stain with stain remover one more time. Wash your jacket in warm water with detergent. Check the jacket to make certain the stain is gone before putting it in the dryer as heat will set the stain. If the stain is still there after you have followed these steps, you have two options: You can take the jacket to a dry cleaner to see if he can remove the stain or you can wash the jacket in hot water with detergent and a cup of bleach. Either one of these options carries the risk that the stain will become set by heat if it does not come out.
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Tips & Warnings
Check the label of the jacket before washing in hot water to make certain it is hot water and bleach safe.
