How to Remove Grass Stains from White Shoes
Removal tips for grass stains and washing instructions for canvas shoes, golf shoes, and sneakers are provided here.
Inevitably, if you wear white shoes, then you are going to find a splash, streak, or blob of bright green on them some day. No matter how hard you try to avoid grass, some things are just unavoidable. Green grass stains are just one of those things.
After all, let's face it, how many times have you had to run after an errant toddler or pet across the freshly mowed lawn, only to look down and find the telltale signs of green on your white shoes. Fortunately, for you, you may be able to remove grass stains from your golf shoes, tennis shoes, or canvas sneakers provided that you do no wait too long.
First, make a solution of 4 ounces water, one tablespoon of ammonia, and a dash of dishwashing liquid detergent for shoes made from canvas or nylon. For shoes made with leather uppers, make a solution of 2/3 cup water, 1/3 cup water, and a dash of dishwashing liquid detergent. Dip a soft bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, into the cleaning solution and gently brush the stains with it. Next, wash the shoes thoroughly.
To wash your white shoes, check the labels for instructions. If not are available, then you can use the instructions provided here to wash your shoes. Use these instructions only for shoes that have canvas, nylon, or leather uppers.
Set up an area to work near a supply of warm running water such as a laundry rub, bathtub, or sink. Spread newspaper or paper bags over the area. Partially fill a bucket with warm water. Prepare the shoe by removing the shoelaces and the insoles. The shoelaces can be placed in a mesh bag and then included in a load of whites.
Next, dip one of the white shoes in the water only long enough to wet it. Do not allow it to soak. Place the shoe on the newspaper or bags. Use a clean nylon scrubbing sponge and a bit of dishwashing liquid to scrub the shoe's entire surface area. Scrub the inside as well as the outside. If necessary, use a small brush such as a toothbrush to scrub stubborn stains. Repeat these steps for the second shoe.
Now it is time to deal with the insoles. Use the nylon scrubbing sponge to scrub them with the soapy solution. Take the insoles and dip them in and out of the water until most of the residue has been removed from them. Rinse them with clean running water. Lukewarm water is good to use for this. Repeat these steps with both of the shoes.
Now it is time to air dry the shoes. First, you must stuff the shoes to capacity with clean, plain white paper towels. Not only will this help them to dry, but also, it will help them to retain their shape. Make sure that the paper towels are completely white with no colored symbols or words on them. It would be silly to acquire ink transfer on your shoes while removing grass stains.
Place your white shoes in an area that will allow them to air dry naturally. This means away from heat and sunlight. Ideally, select a spot outdoors where you won't have to concern yourself with leaves or other debris. Once the shoes are dry, you can apply the appropriate type of shoe polish if desired. Replace the inner soles and the shoelaces. Put your shoes in their regular storage space.
If the stain is still visible after you have washed the white shoes, you can try using a commercial grass stain remover. Additionally, you can use a clean brush dipped in a solution of a few drops of household ammonia and one teaspoon of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. Rinse the area clean with clean water. Never use ammonia with bleach as this produces toxic fumes.