Dealing With Mud

Cleaning Tips & Info
May 04, 2009

It’s spring, and you’re happy to have warmer weather at last.

But as a housekeeper you are aware that spring often includes many rainy days, and that means that kids’ clothes and shoes get muddy, and so do the floors. And if the family has pets, they may come inside full of mud which they then get on the floors and furniture.

What does that mean for you? More work!

What’s the best way to get rid of mud from clothes, furniture and floors?

For clothing:

First, let it dry. Dry mud is easier to remove.
After it has dried, vacuum it up or try shaking the clothing to get it off.
Then, put some liquid detergent on the stain in the clothing and rub it. Continue rubbing it in every few minutes.
Afterwards, soak the garment in the detergent as long as needed until the stain disappears.
If the stain is still visible on the clothing, you can try applying a stain remover.
For floors:

First, let it dry.
Once the mud has dried, you can vacuum or scrape it off with a butter knife.

Then wash the floor as you usually would, devoting some extra time to the muddy area.
For furniture:

First, let it dry.
Then, use a dry toothbrush or soft bristle brush to gently brush off the mud.
Then, carefully blot the dirty area with mild soap and warm water.
If it is still visible on furniture, perhaps it will need to be professionally cleaned.
After cleaning up the mess, consider suggesting to the homeowner that muddy shoes be removed as soon as the child steps inside the house and placed to dry on some newspapers just inside the door. And muddy clothes should be removed there as well. They can either be placed in a laundry basket or on some newspapers lining the floor.

Were these suggestions helpful? Or do you have better strategies for dealing with mud. Share your thoughts and experiences with the Care.com community