How to Clean Shin Pads? Simple Tips

Shin Pads are the most important part of soccer. They protect your bones and soft tissues from external impact. Players usually carry them in their soccer gear bags for this protection.

A common question among beginners, professionals, youth players, and soccer parents is how to clean shin pads, especially since they can get smelly from dust and sweat.

So, in this blog cleaning guide, step-by-step guides are below.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Gather Your Materials:

• Use a basin or tub to wash shin pads.
• Choose a high-quality mild detergent.
• Have a good brush on hand.
• Use a soft towel or cloth.
• Have clean, lukewarm water ready.

Prep Your Shin Pads:

• Remove any debris, dirt, and detachable parts or padding if applicable.
• Check for any visible damage that needs attention before cleaning.

Hand Wash with Soapy Water:

• Place the shin pads in the basin or tub.
• Add a small amount of detergent to the water.
• Use your hand to scrub the shin pads, focusing on stained areas.

Focus on Troublesome Areas:

• First, thoroughly check the shin pads to remove any sweat and debris.
• Spend some time ensuring they are well-prepped for better cleaning.

Soak for a Few Hours:

• Put the shin pads in the soapy water.
• Let them soak for a few hours.
• Stir the water now and then to help clean them.

Rinse and Wipe:

• Rinse the shin pads with clean water to remove soap.
• Use a soft towel or cloth to wipe them dry gently.

Drying Techniques:

Air-Dry Away from Direct Heat: 

Next, wash your shin pas, dry them, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct hair dryers or sources of heat. Heat can distort or harm the material used, so it’s advisable to let them dry.

Use Matguard Spray as a Post-Dry Disinfectant: 

One can use a disinfectant spray such as Matguard to help restrict odors and bacteria. This will help avoid the accumulation of bad odors due to the car’s lack of fresh and clean air.

Ensure Complete Dryness: 

Shin pads should always be dry when placed in the bag/keeper. Any remaining moisture can cause mold or an unpleasant smell. Ensure they are completely dry before packing them in your soccer gear bag.

Can you put soccer shin Pads in the washing machine?

Yes, soccer shin pads are washable either by hand or in a washing machine, depending on the type you own. But before you wash the shin pas, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s guide because some are made for machine washing, while others may be destroyed by it. 

If you must wash them with the washing machine, put them in a mesh bag and wash them with cold water in a gentle cycle. 

But in my experience, washing by hand with shin pads is best.

How Often Should You Clean Shin Pads?

Depending on the nature of the game, the shin pads should preferably be washed after each few matches or practices. 

Only wash them if they become extremely dirty or emit an unpleasant odor. Sustaining their cleanliness helps them last longer without needing replacement or cleaning.

Washing The Rest of Your Soccer Gear

• Use a mild detergent and cold water for most soccer gear.
• Wash jerseys, shorts, and socks according to the care labels.
• Avoid using fabric softeners as they can damage the materials.
• Air dry your gear to prevent shrinking and maintain its shape.

Try WIN Detergent

WIN Detergent has been specially formulated to effectively clean sportswear. It helps to clean heavily soiled material while removing stubborn smells without harming the fabric. 

The Hestra Gloves washing service aims to wash your gear once or use it sparingly so that it is strikingly new and clean the next time you use it!

Final Words

As promised, I have created simple washing instructions to help you clean your soccer shin pads. The above steps will help extend the life of your soccer shin pads and keep them in good condition. 

This prevents them from getting dirty and thus becomes less efficient when used, offering the best protection on the field. A small amount of work on your part will help you avoid much work in the future.

FAQs

Can I use regular laundry detergent on shin pads?

Yes, but ensure you use a gentle soap that does not harm the material during the process.

How can I prevent odors in my shin pads?

Letting them dry each time you use them and even using a disinfectant to minimize the smell is advisable.

Can You Put Shin Pads in the Dishwasher?

Shin Pads might be washed in a dishwasher, though the circumstances depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you choose this method, ensure they are put on top racks and the washing cycle is gentle.

How Do You Clean Martial Arts Shin Pads?

Shin Pads are washed using mild detergent and soft cloths for martial arts. They should be thoroughly washed and scrubbed to ensure no bacteria or other smell is present.