How Do I Get Mud Out of a White Soccer Jersey?

To get mud out of a white soccer jersey, let the mud dry completely first, then brush off the loose dirt. Soak the jersey in cold water with an oxygen-based stain remover for one to two hours, then wash cold on gentle. Avoid bleach and hot water, which can yellow white polyester and set the stain.

Let It Dry Before You Touch It

This feels wrong, but wet mud smears and works deeper into the fabric. Hang the jersey up and wait until the mud is fully dry and crumbly. Then take it outside and brush or shake off as much as you can. You will be surprised how much comes off before any water is involved.

Soak, Don’t Scrub

Fill a basin with cold water and add an oxygen-based stain remover, following the package directions. Submerge the jersey and let it soak for one to two hours. Oxygen cleaners lift dirt from polyester without the damage bleach causes. After soaking, wash the jersey cold and inside out. Check the stain before drying, and repeat the soak if a shadow remains. Never put a stained jersey in a hot dryer.

Keeping Whites White

White jerseys show everything, so wash them separately from colors every time. A little baking soda in the wash helps keep them bright. Grass stains pair badly with mud, so if the jersey has both, treat the grass first with the method in how to get grass stains out of a soccer jersey, then tackle the mud. Our full routine is in how to wash a kids soccer jersey.

This page is part of Soccer Jersey Fabrics and Care in the Complete Kids Soccer Jersey Guide.

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