Soil stains, especially from damp earth, can leave your clothes looking worse for wear. Fun fact: the more minerals in the soil, the tougher it is to remove! Here’s a rundown of practical and eco-friendly methods from Tante Kaat to get those stubborn soil stains out of your clothes.
1. Start with Water: Rinse and Pre-Treat
If possible, start by rinsing the stained fabric with mineral-free or rainwater. This helps prevent minerals from bonding with the fabric. Then, apply a stain remover to the area as soon as you can and toss it in the washing machine right away.
2. Can’t Wash Right Away? Let It Dry!
If you’re on the go, let the soil stain dry completely. Once it’s dry, simply brush off as much dirt as possible. Often, this will remove the majority of the stain, especially on darker fabrics.
3. For Stubborn Stains: Ammonia and Warm Water
If some discoloration remains, apply warm water mixed with a few drops of ammonia to the area. This usually breaks down any remaining traces of the stain effectively.
4. Handling Old Soil Stains
For set-in soil stains, dissolve a scoop of borax in water and soak the stain. Alternatively, use a bit of methylated spirits or methanol, though avoid this on white fabrics. Both options can work wonders on older, more stubborn marks.
Pro Tip
Have some borax or ammonia in your cleaning kit at home! They’re handy, budget-friendly, and offer a natural alternative to harsh chemical cleaners for keeping clothes looking fresh.