Red Dirt Stain Removal

Existing abundantly in the South, red dirt, otherwise known as red clay, can often become a challenge to remove from clothing or carpeting. Learning a few little secrets about how to effectively remove this staining substance may help save some money and frustration for those who are often challenged by red dirt stains. Baseball uniforms and even light beige carpeting can all be saved from red dirt stains using the right methods.

Removing Red Dirt Stains from Clothing

One method of getting rid of red dirt stains from clothing begins with letting the stain dry thoroughly, then using a bristled brush to dust off as much dry clay as possible. Next, rub the stain with Murphy Oil Soap. Leave it alone for 15 minutes, and then rinse with cold water. An alternative to the Murphy Oil Soap is a solution of 1 tbsp. borax in a cup of water. If this method does not remove the stain, try soaking the clothing in a gallon of water to which 1 cup of ammonia has been added. If it is white clothing, bleach or hydrogen peroxide may be used instead. As a side note, never mix bleach and ammonia together as it creates a dangerous toxic gas.

Another method of getting red dirt out of clothing begins with brushing off the dry clay, and applying a paste consisting of standard laundry detergent and ammonia with a cotton cloth. Leave it alone for 10 minutes and then launder in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric. Repeat if necessary.

The third method of removing red dirt stains from clothing has the least amount of steps. Wet the fabric in the area surrounding the stain. Take out a bar of Fels-Naptha laundry soap, which can be purchased at most grocery stores, and rub it onto the stain. Take a small bristled brush and scrub the stain with it. Launder it in warm water with regular laundry detergent.

Removing Red Dirt Stains from Carpeting

Murphy Oil Soap is also helpful for removing red dirt stains from carpeting. After letting the clay dry and brushing away any excess, rub the stain with a small amount of Murphy Oil Soap. Let it sit for about 20 minutes and use a clean cloth and cold water to remove the stain. Follow up by creating a mixture of one part ammonia to eight parts water. Use a clean cloth to scrub the carpet.

If none of these ingredients is available, you may have success by blotting the stain with a solution made of 1 cup of white vinegar to 2 cups of water. Finish by blotting dry with a white absorbent towel.

Lastly, running a carpet shampooer over the spot may remove the stain with little effort expended.

References

• Ask Heloise
• Aqua Tek Restoration
• Cleaning Life Tips

Resources

• Krud Kutter Red Clay Stain Remover