How do I remove mud stains from sneakers?

Start by scraping away any excess mud with an old spoon or butter knife. Then, mix together one part warm water and two parts mild detergent in a bucket or bowl. Use a soft cloth to scrub the stained area then rinse off with a damp cloth. If the stain still remains, apply a specialised stain remover. Finally, allow the shoes to air-dry away from direct sun.

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How to Clean Mud Stains Easily from Your Sneakers

Q: How can I prevent mud stains on my sneakers?

Try keeping your shoes outdoors when possible, or in an area where dirt isn't likely to accumulate. Additionally, you can apply a waterproofing spray to help keep your shoes protected.

Mud stains can be a hassle to clean, but with the right tips and tricks, you can easily remove them from your sneakers. Read on to find our suggested methods for taking care of mud-stained shoes.

Updated 27 Jun 2023

By Blaž Stančič

Step 1: Scrape away any excess mud

Start by using an old spoon or butter knife to scrape away any excess mud that may still be clinging to surface of your shoe. This will help reduce the amount of time you'll need to spend cleaning up stain later.

Step 2: Prepare a cleaning solution

Mix together one part warm water and two parts mild detergent into a bucket or large bowl. Use a soft cloth to dip into mixture, squeezing out any excess liquid.

Step 3: Scrub the stain

Gently rub the cloth onto the stained area in a circular motion. Continue scrubbing until the stain starts to lighten. Once it's lightened, rinse off shoe with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Use a stain remover

If the stain still remains after rinsing, grab a specialised stain remover and dab it onto the affected area. Follow the instructions on the packaging, then use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue.

Step 5: Allow to air dry

Once the mud stain is gone from your shoes, let them air dry away from direct sunlight. This will help ensure that the fabric fibers don't get damaged as the shoes dry.

Tips for prevention

To reduce the likelihood of mud stains on your sneakers, it's a good idea to keep them outdoors when possible, or at least in an area where dirt isn't likely to accumulate. Additionally, you can also apply a waterproofing spray to help keep your shoes protected.

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