How to Remove Grass Stains from Your Trainers

From rainy-day dog walks to Saturday-morning matches, there’s no avoiding pesky grass stains. But that doesn’t mean it’s the end for your trainers, our resident laundry expert, Gwil Snook gives us a few tips on getting those sneakers sparkling again.

“If grass has stuck to your trainers or football boots and you’re looking for a quick fix then look no further. To clean like a pro, follow these simple steps…”

First, empty your sink, grab a cup of laundry detergent and have bottles of white vinegar and baking soda at the ready. Mix the white vinegar and baking soda into a separate cup to use later. Now for your tool of choice, you’ll need an old toothbrush or a soft brush – whichever you prefer.

Run your trainers under the cold tap to flush out as much of the grass stain as possible – fresh stains are much easier to remove than set-in ones. Then, use your toothbrush to scrub away any loose dirt or grass hiding in the grooves or treads of your trainers.

For any bolder stains that you’re struggling to get rid of, dip your toothbrush into the white vinegar/ baking soda solution. Gently scrub the grass stains, using circular motions to lift the stain and be careful not to damage the fabric or material of the trainers. Before drying, check if the stains are still visible. If they are, repeat the same process above and rinse your shoes under the cold tap when done.

If your shoes are machine washable then you can skip the above steps. Instead, place them in a mesh laundry bag and wash them on a gentle cycle with cold water and your standard detergent. With this method, remove any insoles and laces before washing and wash these separately

It may sound counterintuitive but avoid drying your trainers in the tumble dryer. Heat can cause a stain to set which may make it more difficult to remove in future. Instead, air dry your trainers, insoles and laces on the line for the best results!

Shop all Washing Machines