How to Remove Grass Stains (Your Easy Guide)

Nothing says “we had a grand ol’ time at the park” like a laundry load full of grass stains. They always make us smile knowing that fun was had, but feeling like your favorite pair of jeans might be ruined is a huge bummer! Don’t entertain that thought for long, because learning how to remove grass stains is easier than you’d think.

Summer brings the changes so many of us live for; warmth, vitamin D, swim time, and of course the greenifying of basically everything, including your clothes! Those with kids know all too well the troubles of removing grass stains from fabrics, and even those without sometimes like to relive childhood and roll down a grassy hill, collecting stains as evidence. It’s a throwaway world we live in, but don’t get caught up in the cycle of waste because of a silly stain. Follow these simple steps to learn how to remove grass stains and keep the good times rolling!

What Causes Grass Stains?

Grass stains are caused by chlorophyll, the dye that gives the grass its green color. This dye is present in green plants–and can also be used to dye your clothing green after a long day in the park. Grass stains are a mixture of proteins, and are also commonly combined with other stains such as dirt, sweat, or mud. Grass stains can have a strong staying power, but if treated quickly, they can be removed easily. Our guide to how to get grass stains out of clothes will have you ready for your next hike or picnic stain-free.

How to Remove Grass Stains

What you’ll need: Ultra Concentrated Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent, Oxi Booster Pods

Step 1: Brush Off Remnants

Before you begin getting grass stains out, you need to make sure any stray grass is off! If dirt and grass are still lingering on your clothing item, brush them off. You can also shake them outside to avoid needing to sweep your laundry room after this is all said and done!

brushing grass off of tee

Step 2: Pretreat Stain

Fill a clean sink or basin with warm water, and add a detergent that contains enzymes. We recommend our Ultra Concentrated Stain & Odor Detergent. Our Stain & Odor Detergent contains enzymes designed to digest the protein of the stain, while its pump makes it easy to dispense. Alternatively, you could dissolve a Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent Pod, if you'd prefer! Add the garment and soak for 5-10 minutes. You should see the stain begin to fade almost immediately. You can also add one pump of Ultra Concentrated Detergent directly to the stain and let sit, if the stain is particularly stubborn! adding detergent pod to sink of water

Step 4: Wash

Once the stain is lifted, wash the item in the warmest water recommended by the care label. We suggest using a Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent Pod to double up on the enzyme’s stain-fighting action. Consider adding an Oxi Booster Pod for extra stain removal power and brightening as well!

Step 5: Dry

When the wash is done and the stain is gone, dry the item as usual according to the care label. Be sure the stain is fully lifted before putting the garment in the dryer, as the heat from a dryer can cause any remaining stains to set further and be more difficult to remove in the future. Once the stain is fully gone, you can dry the item worry-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions about how to remove grass stains? We’re here to help.

What is the Best Grass Stain Remover?

Grass stains are best and most easily removed with a cleaning product containing enzymes, like our Ultra Concentrated Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent. The enzymes break down the proteins in the stain so it lifts and washes right down the drain. You can learn more about how enzymes work in our Cleaning Science Guide!

Do Grass Stains Come Out?

Getting grass stains out is easy if you act quickly and use the right tools! The longer the stain is left alone, the more it permeates into the fibers of your clothes and sets, making it more difficult to remove. If you apply a stain remover as soon as you notice the spots on your clothes, the stain should lift quickly and easily.

Does Baking Soda and Vinegar Remove Grass Stains?

Baking Soda and Vinegar are the MVPs of cleaning solutions found in your kitchen! For particularly tough stains, you can create a paste made of baking soda and vinegar. Apply it to the grass stained spot and allow it to sit for 30 minutes before washing.

What Will Remove Grass Stains from Fabric?

A variety of cleaning products will remove grass stains from fabric. We recommend using an enzyme-based cleaner, like our Ultra Concentrated Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent, that is tough on stains but gentle on fabric. You could also use Oxi Booster, rubbing alcohol, white vinegar, or even dish soap!