Grass stains are a sign of a good day. A great game, a long picnic, a dog who refused to walk on the path. They're also famously stubborn.

Quick answer: rinse with cold water from the back, rub in a little dissolved sheet, let it sit 15 minutes, then wash with an enzyme formula like Just 9. Check before drying.

Why grass is so stubborn

Grass stains mix plant pigment with proteins. The pigment dyes the fibers, and the proteins help it cling.^† Basically, nature's tie-dye.

The five-step fix

1. Act fast. Fresh stains lift easier.
2. Rinse cold from the back of the fabric to push the stain out.
3. Pretreat. Dissolve a little of a sheet in water and rub it in.
4. Wait 15 minutes. Let it work.
5. Wash with Just 9, whose protease targets proteins.

What not to do

• Don't use hot water first. Heat can set the stain.
• Don't toss it in the dryer until the stain is gone.
• Don't scrub like you're mad at it. Gentle rubbing protects fibers.

Stubborn stain?

Repeat the pretreat and wash. Old, dried stains can take two rounds. Hang it in the sun to dry, which can help fade what's left.

FAQ

What removes grass stains best? An enzyme detergent plus a cold-water pretreat.

Can I get grass stains out of white pants? Yes. Pretreat, wash with enzymes and dry in the sun.

Does hot water remove grass stains? No, start cold. Heat can set them.

Do old grass stains come out? Often, with two or three rounds.