Natural Ways to Remove Deep Ground-In Dirt in Laundry

Lemon

• The citric acid in a lemon may be helpful in removing ground-in dirt from laundry. When the lemon juice is rubbed directly into the dirt, the acid begins to break down the stain. The rubbing action allows the dirt to lift from the material as the acid breaks it down. For severely dirt-stained items, add salt to the lemon juice. Pour salt over the entire stain area and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Rub the salt and lemon into the stain. The abrasive action along with the acid break-down removes the dirt. In some cases, hanging the garment in the sun after rubbing in the salt and lemon adds to the stain removal process.

Hydrogen Peroxide.

• Hydrogen peroxide is a basic element infusion that creates a bubbling or boiling action. The product is a natural bleaching and cleansing agent and is helpful in removing dirt and other stains on laundry. For ground-in dirt, pour a liberal amount of the product onto the stain and allow it to bubble. When the bubbling action fades, rinse the item with cool water, then apply more of hydrogen peroxide. Gently rub the stain as the bubbling action lifts and whitens the fabric. Use caution with this method. Fabric that's not color-fast can fade with the use of hydrogen peroxide.

Vinegar

• Vinegar is a highly acidic, natural product. When diluted with water, vinegar becomes a laundry stain remover. A mixture of one part water and one part vinegar is a general pretreatment for natural or organic stains on clothing. Simply spray on the concoction prior to tossing the clothing in the washer with regular detergent. For tough dirt stains, use a mixture of one part water to three parts vinegar and rub it into the stain before washing. The acid will break down the dirt particles and release the stain. For colored clothes, rinse the area before washing to prevent fading or damage.

Baking Soda

• The same product in the kitchen cabinet that helps biscuits and muffins rise will lift ground-in dirt from laundry. Baking soda is an alkaline cleaner, less abrasive than its acidic counterparts. When mixed with water to create a paste, the baking soda will bubble and lift away dirt. When mixed with the acidic cleaner vinegar, the fizzing action breaks up and lifts dirt from most materials. Baking soda is a good option for greasy dirt as the alkaline base breaks down grease.