It is no secret that rugby shorts can take a real beating during an intense match. Muddy days can cause a real mess on clothing and equipment as well as grass and bloodstains. But, there are a several techniques that people have found to work in getting out stains and dirt from shorts, even the white variety!

A great way to remove mud and grass stains from shorts is to soak the shorts in a sink with very, very hot water for at least 3 hours. Many people choose to soak them overnight, depending on how dirty they may be. In addition to the hot water you should add a good soap.

Soaps that work well on this type of material include Ariel Biological Handwash, Vanish Oxy Action and bio washing powder. Once you find a soap that works for you and a specific stain that occurs frequently with rugby gear, keep it handy. Make sure to have an extra bottle on hand so you don’t run out when you need it the most.

Bloodstains are an entirely different type of stain. Instead of hot water, you will need to use cold water to remove these stains. If the stain is more than one to two days old it will be much more difficult to remove. They key to removing blood is to wash it out as soon as possible. Bar soap and cold water can be used to rub most bloodstains away. An ice cube rubbed onto a stain before the shorts can be properly removed and washed can help to keep the stain from setting.

Rugby shorts in light colors can last as long as the dark colored varieties if they are handled and washed properly. Stains can be easily removed with the right know-how and products.