How to clean up after stormy weather

remove mud stains
How to remove mud stainssarayut Thaneerat - Getty Images

Lovely weather we're having! As we all know, the rain can reappear any moment in the UK, so it's a good idea to know how to clean up yourself — and your clothes — after an unexpected shower.

We've put together this ultimate guide to keep you looking fabulous, even after a storm. Here's what you need to know.

Keeping off the rain

Investing in a good raincoat is so worth it to stay dry and protected in the rain. Even when it seems like the nice weather will hold, having a reliable waterproof coat in your bag or car is always a good idea.

To look stylish and weather the storm, Next have a range of rain macs that are lightweight enough to keep in your bag for emergencies. If you're looking to invest in something more elegant, this hooded trench coat from Petit Bateau might be for you.

remove mud stains
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Protecting yourself from the wind

It might also be time to replace that five-year-old umbrella that turns inside-out at the slightest bit of breeze. Investing in a windproof umbrella will not only keep you dry, it will also ensure that you're not fighting against mother nature as she tries to blow it away from you.

Fixing your make-up

If the rain has your mascara running, then it's probably best to start opting for waterproof products! The best-rated waterproof mascara, as tested by the GHI beauty experts, is the Revlon Volamazing Mascara Waterproof for defined, clump-free lashes that will survive the storms.

As for eyeliner, the Anastasia Beverly Hills Waterproof Crème Color was rated the best. A setting spray is also great for keeping your make-up in place. Our winner was Caudalie's Beauty Elixir. Not only will this keep your makeup looking fresh, it also doubles as a relaxing pillow spray!

De-frizzing your hair

Do you spend ages making your hair look great, only for it to double in size the second you step out into the rain? The GHI beauty experts found that Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame was the best anti-frizz product to keep hair until control.

remove mud stains
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Removing mud stains

Even if you take your shoes off at the door, somehow mud manages to get everywhere on a rainy day. Here's how to remove the mess from your home.

Most upholstery fabrics

Allow the mud to dry, then remove as much as possible by brushing or vacuuming the affected area.

Carpets

Apply Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, blot with lightly dampened paper towels and repeat as necessary until the stain has been removed. Rinse with clear water and blot dry.

remove mud stains
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Fabric

For cotton, most stains will come out by machine washing at 40°C with a biological detergent. For more stubborn stains, try a biological pre-soaking product. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, then wash the item as normal.

If it's silk and wool that's machine washable, try rubbing a little washing-up liquid into the affected area before washing as normal. If this doesn’t work, spot-treat with Dr. Beckmann Stain Devils Mud, Grass & Make-Up according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then wash as normal.

Last resort: soak the item in an oxygen-based, colour-safe bleach. Check the care label first and follow the product instructions.

GHI Tip: Act fast, particularly with delicate fabrics, or you may have a permanent reminder of that wet and windy walk

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