How to Wash Soccer Jerseys: Easy Steps
Cleaning soccer jerseys may differ depending on who uses them: a saintly fan’s jersey, a child in the youth soccer team jersey, or a simple hard-working soccer player’s sweaty jersey.
The same amount of care and effort should be provided for this type of jersey to stay nice. Okay, let us check the discussion of a player who gets on the field with his jersey stained with mud and dirt.
I will give you some steps to clean it quickly and confirm that it deserves the care.
4 Washing Tips for Soccer Jersey
1. Turn Jerseys Inside Out Before Washing
When washing your soccer jersey, ensure that an inside-out process is followed before washing the item. This way, the outer layer, logos, numbers, or names do not wear out by rubbing against neighboring clothes or the side of the washing machine.
It also reduces friction, so your jersey’s colour will not fade as quickly as expected if you play on a regular field.
2. Use Cool Water and a Low-Spin Cycle
A jersey that requires a washing machine should always be washed with cold water only. It is important not to use hot water for washing items, as it may cause them to shed colours and shrink.
Wash it on a low spin cycle to prevent damage to the fabric. A gentle cycle is suitable for this process, as it will prevent shrinking and help maintain the jersey’s shape and texture.
3. Skip the Fabric Softener
Pre-treating the fabric could mean that your favorite soccer jerseys don’t retain the softness provided by fabric softeners.
These can cause the jersey’s fabric to deteriorate and leave behind substances that disrupt the jersey’s ability to wick away moisture. As a reminder to wash your jersey properly, avoid using fabric softener on your gear.
4. Avoid the Dryer
Soccer jerseys might experience shrinkage if exposed to the heat from the dryer or suffer from fading of printing and logos. It is important to avoid using the dryer and let your jersey air-dry.
This should be done by hanging it in a cool and dry place, preferably in an open area, to allow for proper ventilation and avoid direct sunlight, which may cause the cloth’s colour to expire.
If you must dry your clothes using a dryer, ensure that you do so with the least heat.
Can You Put Soccer Jerseys in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash soccer jerseys in a washing machine, but it is very important to be cautious. First, shake off dirt, grass, or mud stuck to the surface. After you’ve done all that, you can comfortably put the jersey in the machine.
As always, follow the tips mentioned earlier: wash your clothes with cold water, select a low-spin cycle, and do not use the dryer afterward.
How to Wash an Authentic Soccer Jersey (by Hand) in 3 Steps
Original soccer jerseys are somewhat tender and costly, especially the ones produced for events like Euro Qualifiers, so if you own such a shirt, it is more suitable to wash it by hand. Here’s how:
Step 1: Brush Off Excess Dirt, Grass, and Mud
Do not rub your jersey with your hands before washing it; this will only worsen matters as dirt, grass, or mud is on it. This way, debris trying to sink deeper into the fabric while washing is kept at bay.
Step 2: Wash by Hand
Place the basin or sink under running water and add only a small quantity of mild detergent. Dip the jersey and slowly rotate it in the solution, particularly if the stain is concentrated in certain regions. Do not rub or twist the jersey, as this can cause tough creases that may be difficult to iron out.
Step 3: Air-Dry Your Jersey
After washing, rinse the jersey with clean water. Pat the garment without twisting the fabric, then place it on another towel and let it dry. The jersey may stretch if one hangs it, so the proper way is to lay it flat.
Using White Vinegar to Remove Stubborn Odors
White vinegar will do the job for a soccer jersey that always seems to have some smell. When washing the jersey, use a cup of white vinegar for the rinse cycle.
You should clean your brushes using vinegar to neutralize any odor that was left behind. Do not be bothered by the vinegar stench on your jersey. As soon as you wash and dry it, the smell will disappear.
How to Soak and Pretreat Stains
Powering the area with soaking and pre-treatment for challenging spots is important.
Soak the Jersey
Pour some cool water into a basin and include a drop of mild detergent into the solution. Allow the jersey to be soaked for 20-30 minutes. This will help break the flexibility of any stains that may be difficult to eliminate.
Pretreat Stains
If areas are highly contaminated with the discoloring agent, use a small quantity of detergent and wash it gently on the affected part. Huge spots require more than washing, so gently scrub the detergent on the fabric using a soft brush or an old toothbrush.
Wash as Usual
The next process is washing. After pretreatment, wash the jersey in the usual way, either by hand or using the washing machine, depending on earlier advice.
Washing Other Sports Jerseys
The methods for washing soccer jerseys can often be applied to other sports jerseys, but each type may have specific considerations:
NFL Jerseys
These are normally constructed from fairly durable fabrics but should not be placed in the dryer. They should be washed with cold water only to avoid colour running.
Football Jerseys
Like NFL jerseys, football jerseys have padding. The material is more comfortable on this side; hand washing is preferred, and you must air-dry it to retain the padding.
Hockey Jerseys
These are usually thicker and are suitable for machine washing, with a note that fabric softeners and high heat during dryer should not be used.
Baseball Jerseys
It is also important to note that they can usually be washed in the washing machine. If they are stained, treat them immediately, and do not iron at high temperatures.
Basketball Jerseys
Basketball jerseys are worn during the game and are made from light-coloured fabric with mesh to allow free breathing. The fabric should not be treated with softener or iron at high heat.
Avoid Chemicals & Rough Scrubbers
Do not use bleach and other strong soaps to clean soccer jerseys, and do not use a strong scrubbing pad. Do not use strong detergents, bleach, and stain removers; prolonged exposure to sunlight fades the colours. Instead, use gentle soaps recommended for sportswear.
To better treat dermatitis, you can use diluted white vinegar or baking soda instead for dirty stains. Also, do not use rough materials such as scrubbers or brushes, which can destroy the fabric used in making furniture. You should wipe any stains with a soft cloth or other items like sponges.
FAQs
Can you toss soccer jerseys in the dryer?
The best thing to do is to know that putting soccer jerseys in the dryer is not recommended. This will compromise the fabric and any designs printed on the cloth. The last method is the most secure: air-drying.
Should you wash soccer jerseys inside out?
Yes, washing soccer jerseys inside out is advisable because it will shield the outer layer, logos, numbers, and names from the dangers of fading.
How Do I Wash a White Soccer Jersey?
It is always challenging to wash white jerseys; however, ensure you use a washing powder meant for white clothes and do not mix it with coloured clothes. If needed, pre-treat any stains to prevent them from setting.
What’s the Best Detergent for Soccer Jerseys?
A mild detergent without bleach or fabric softeners is most appropriate for use on cloth. Some detergents are meant for athletic wear and are mild on the material but powerful in removing smells and stains.
