If you’re a soccer player, your soccer cleats take a lot of abuse. In fact, they might need to be washed after each game. Learn how to wash soccer cleats with this article.
Soccer cleats are an essential piece of soccer equipment for any player. A clean set of cleats is imperative to prevent injury and for safety reasons. A clean pair of cleats provides better traction, less slippage, and more stability. When the cleats get dirty, it can be difficult to maintain traction and balance. Therefore, it is important that cleats be cleaned after each use.
Also, you should worry about timely care of your cleats in order to use them as long as possible and not to lose cleats’ qualities over the years.
Below are some tips to help you clean your cleats:
- After the game, loosen the lacing and pull out your feet effortlessly. This will help maintain the shape of your cleats and lace holes.
- The first step to washing cleats is to remove pieces of mud, grass and dirt that are stuck to the sole and top of the cleats. To clear out any dirt that may be clumped between your studs use a popsicle stick or screwdriver.
- Remove the laces and insoles (if they are removable). Put them into a laundry bag and wash it in the washing machine with a laundry detergent. With clean laces you will get new-looking cleats, and by putting in a clean insole your cleats will stay fresh.
- To clean your cleats thoroughly, you’ll need to start by making a mildly soapy solution and then wash the cleat with sponge or cloth while scrubbing the inside and outside of it. Stubborn stains can be removed with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse the cleats off with clean water to get rid of all the soap and bubbles.
- Finally, you should completely dry your cleats. It’s better to dry cleats indoor. Be sure to avoid exposing them to extreme heat including direct sunlight, hairdryers or radiators as this may damage them and may shorten their life span.
Extra tips on how to care of your soccer cleats?
- Don’t ruin your cleats by stepping on the back of the heel to remove them. Instead, just untie the laces and take them off that way.
- If your cleats have removable studs, check them after every game. If you can see that they are wearing down, change them. New studs will offer better traction on the field.
- Consider buying an extra pair of cleats. Switching the pair of cleats you wear for each game or practice can significantly extend their lifespan.
- After you’ve cleaned and dried your soccer cleats, use an oil or polish to maintain the leather. This helps protect it from everything that would destroy the material. Also, it will keep your cleats looking brand new to give you confidence when you’re playing!
- Always allow your cleats to dry before storing them in the bag. It is best to use a breathable bag so that the moisture can escape. Wet shoes in a non-breathable bag may result in mold growth and rot which will reduce their quality.
FAQ
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How to dry soccer cleats?
If your cleats are wet on the inside, try stuffing them with newspaper to soak up excess moisture. Newspapers work really well at absorbing water and can help maintain their shape over time as well.
Never put your cleats into a dryer. It’s better to dry cleats indoor. Be sure to avoid exposing them to extreme heat including direct sunlight, hairdryers or radiators as this may damage them and may shorten their life span.
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Can I wash soccer cleats in a washing machine?
No, you can’t wash soccer cleats in a washing machine. Also, never put your cleats into a dryer. Soccer cleats are designed to be used on the soccer field and for this reason they are made from hard materials. These hard materials will not last long if they are put through a harsh cycle in a washing machine. And the washing machine or dryer can break.
Soccer cleats are best washed by hand with gentle detergent and lukewarm water.
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Can I wear soccer cleats off the field?
It’s always a good idea to remove your cleats as soon as you leave the playing field. That way you avoid any unnecessary wear and tear that would otherwise happen when walking on concrete. Bring an extra pair of shoes with you onto the field, which can be changed into before leaving at the end of the game.
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How to keep soccer cleats fresh?
Clean your cleats regularly to get rid of bacteria and prevent rash or irritations.
When you’re short on time, these are some great quick cleaning tips:
- Use shoe deodorizers periodically to keep them smelling fresh. You can find shoe deodorizers at sporting goods stores.
- Put a few dry tea bags in your shoes and bag to soak up moisture. This will eliminate bacteria and odor.
- Soaking paper towels in bleach is a simple, yet effective way to disinfect your cleats.
- Place a coffee filter (with sprinkled either baking soda or Epsom salt in it) inside your shoes.
For best results, it is recommended to use these methods overnight. This will provide you with a longer-lasting solution to help get rid of the built-up bacteria.
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How to store soccer cleats during the offseason?
Keep your soccer shoes in a breathable bag during the offseason. This way they will be sure not to go out of shape and can be kept away from direct sunlight.
