Simple steps for removing grass stains
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Wimbledon is finally here, and while most of us will be watching from the comfort of our own sofas, some might be inspired to pick up a racquet and play along. Now, if you're lucky enough to play on a grass court, and you've skidded on the turf after an over-enthusiastic serve and volley, then resulting grass stains can seriously ruin that pristine, Fred Perry look you were going for.
Thankfully the GHI has pulled together its best tips and tricks to restore your kit, so you can look the part for your next match.
Why are grass stains so difficult to remove?
Grass stains are mostly a combination of proteins and chlorophyll. The chlorophyll contains pigment and that’s where the trouble starts, particularly on your delicate items, such as silk and wool. It should be treated as soon as possible for the best chance of removal, especially on silk.
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How to remove grass stains from washable fabrics
Cotton
Place a clean white cloth under the item and thoroughly moisten the stain with Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Devils Cosmetics & Nature stain remover, which is specially formulated to remove grass stains. Following the instructions, leave it to sit for 10-15 minutes – give it more time to work, if required, for really stubborn stains. Then dab the excess away with a clean cloth before machine washing at 40°C with biological detergent. If the care label allows you to wash the garment at a higher temperature, do so for the best chance of removing the stain.
If the stain won’t budge, or you don’t have the Stain Devils product to hand, soak in an oxygen-based bleaching agent, following the manufacturer's instructions before washing with biological detergent.
Remember to use a colour safe bleaching agent for colours and for sparkling whites, opt for one formulated specifically for whites. For a more eco-friendly option, soak the garment overnight in a strong solution of washing soda crystals (follow the instructions on the pack) then wash as normal, preferably with a biological detergent.
Silk and wool
You must act quickly to get grass stains out of silk and wool. Again, use Dr. Beckmann’s Stain Devils Cosmetics & Nature stain remover following the directions for cotton, then wash at 30°C on a delicates cycle using a detergent specially formulated for delicates, such as Ecover Delicate Laundry Liquid for Wool & Silk. If in doubt, take the item to a reputable dry cleaner and make sure you point out the stain to them when dropping the item off.
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How to remove grass stains from shoes
For grass stains on white leather trainers or tennis shoes, try spraying the stained area with a few drops of WD-40 and then wipe with a clean cloth.
For canvas trainers, treat with Vanish Oxi Action Gel following the instructions given on the pack. Be sure to flush the area with water to remove all traces of the product before allowing to air dry.
To prevent such stains in the future, get into the habit of regularly applying a proprietary shoe protector spray, such as Crep Protect Shoe Protector Spray. This creates a barrier to repel both water and stains. Just check it’s suitable for the material before applying.
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