How to Wash and Dry Soccer Cleats in 5 Easy Steps?

Soccer cleats are important for any player because they provide the grip and support needed on the field. However, they can get dirty and smell bad after a long game or practice. Taking care of your soccer cleats helps them last longer and keeps your performance at its best. 

Here, we will go over easy steps on how to wash and dry soccer cleats:

Overview of Soccer Cleat Care

Before learning how to wash and dry soccer cleats, here we will have an overview of soccer cleat care:

Importance of Proper Soccer Cleat Maintenance 

After every practice and game, your cleats collect dirt, grass stains, bacteria, and sweat. This buildup can damage the materials, making them less effective and reducing support. Over time, dirty cleats wear out much faster than clean ones. Here’s how having dirty cleats can affect your game:

• Less Traction, More Injuries

The soles of cleats can pick up dirt and debris, which can get stuck in the studs and reduce traction. It makes running fast, stopping, or changing direction tougher, increasing the risk of twisted ankles and missed opportunities. If your cleats have metal spikes, like some golf and baseball cleats, they can rust, ruining the soles for good.

• Ball Control

Soccer cleats and football cleats for kickers have special grips to help you control the ball. When these grips are dirty, they can’t hold the ball too, making your passes and shots less accurate.

• Reduced Lifespan

Dirt and grime can break down the materials of your cleats over time, causing them to become stiff, crack, or warp. Not only do dirty cleats feel uncomfortable, but they are also more likely to tear.

Keeping your cleats clean helps ensure they last longer and perform better on the field. 

See Also Understanding Soccer Positions: A Comprehensive Guide to Player Roles and Basic Formations

Common Mistakes When Washing Soccer Cleats 

If you want to learn key tips for cleaning and drying soccer cleats, here are the common mistakes to avoid:

Using Harsh Chemicals

Many players make the mistake of using strong chemicals like bleach or tough detergents to clean their soccer cleats. While these might seem effective for tough stains, they can harm the materials and cleats. These harsh chemicals can break down leather, synthetic materials, or glue, leading to faster wear and tear.

Exposing Cleats to High Heat

Another common mistake is drying soccer cleats with high heat. Some players put their cleats in the dryer or place them too close to heaters or in direct sunlight. The high temperatures can change the shape of the cleats, causing the materials to lose their structure and fit.

Improper Machine Washing

Some players think throwing their soccer cleats in the washing machine is a quick way to clean them. However, machine washing can be rough on delicate materials. The spinning and agitation can cause the cleats to lose shape, and water can get inside, leading to mold or mildew growth.

Neglecting Cleat Maintenance

Finally, many players forget to clean and take care of their soccer cleats regularly. Allowing dirt, mud, and sweat to build up can cause several problems. It includes faster wear, bad smells, and even bacteria-related health risks. Regular and proper maintenance is essential for keeping cleats in great shape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Soccer Cleats

Step 1: Preparing Soccer Cleats for Cleaning

• Prepare for Cleaning Soccer Cleats Effectively

Inspect your cleats for any visible stains or dirt. Pay special attention to the soles, which often collect mud and grime. Remove any large clumps of dirt with your hands or a soft brush.

• Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools for Soccer Cleats

Gather your supplies. You will need a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away dirt, mild soap or detergent, a cloth, and warm water. You might also want an old toothbrush for tight spots and a sponge for larger surfaces. It will help you achieve the best way to wash soccer cleats effectively.

How to Remove Stains from Soccer Cleats?

Step 2: Washing Soccer Cleats

While some may be tempted to toss their cleats into the washing machine, hand washing is generally safer. Hand washing vs. machine washing soccer cleats allows for more control and reduces the risk of damaging the material. Machine washing can cause cleats to lose shape, and the high spin cycles can cause unnecessary wear.

Proper Cleaning Techniques for Soccer Cleats 

Use a brush to gently scrub off any dirt or mud from your cleats. Pay special attention to the seams and grooves where dirt builds up.

Next, soak a cloth in warm, soapy water and wipe down the cleats’ outside and inside. Don’t forget the tongue and laces. It is because these areas often trap dirt and moisture. Be careful not to soak the cleats completely, as too much water can damage them.

After that, rinse the cleats with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Let them dry naturally before moving on to the next step.

How to Clean Soccer Cleats After Muddy Games?

Starting your cleaning right after practice or a game makes it easier. First, remove any extra dirt, grass, or mud. Gently knock the soles of your cleats together to shake off some debris. Then, use a stick or an old toothbrush to remove any stubborn dirt and mud. This quick first step will help make the rest of the cleaning much simpler.  

Step 3: Drying Soccer Cleats

Start by removing the insoles and letting them air dry separately. Place your cleats in a well-ventilated area, but keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators. Sunlight can fade the colors and cause the materials to lose their shape.

You can also stuff the insides of your cleats with newspaper or paper towels. It helps soak up moisture and keeps their shape while drying.

Common Mistakes When Drying Soccer Cleats

Avoid putting your cleats in the dryer or exposing them to high heat, as it can change their shape and damage the materials. You must remember that it is important to be careful when drying your soccer cleats to prevent damage. Depending on the humidity and temperature, your cleats may take several hours to a day to dry completely.

Step 4: Maintaining Soccer Cleats

After each use, be sure to let your cleats air out. You can also use odor-fighting insoles or sprays made for sports shoes. Another tip is to put baking soda inside the cleats overnight to help absorb any bad smells.

Tips for Prolonging the Life of Soccer Cleats

• Regularly check your cleats for any signs of wear and tear, and fix them immediately. 
• If you see loose stitching or small tears, use a strong glue or take them to a cobbler for repairs. 
• There are also Soccer cleat repair and care services that can help with more serious maintenance, ensuring your cleats last for many seasons. 

Step 5: Professional Soccer Cleat Services

If your cleats need more than a basic wash, consider using professional cleaning services.

Benefits of Professional Cleat Cleaning Services

Deep Cleaning

Professionals can remove tough stains and odors, ensuring your cleats look and smell great. They use special equipment and cleaning solutions that clean well without harming the materials.

Eco-Friendly Options

Many cleaning services offer eco-friendly choices that are safe for your cleats and the environment. It is a good option for players who care about being environmentally friendly.

Repair and Sanitization

If your cleats are worn out, these services can help restore them to good condition. They also sanitize your cleats to eliminate any bacteria or lingering smells.

How to Get the Smell Out of Cleats

If your soccer cleats are smelling bad, here is how to clean them:

1. Soak the Cleats: Put the cleats in warm water mixed with a mild detergent for about an hour. After soaking, rinse them well and press out extra water with a towel.
2. Clean the Dirt: Use a gentle brush to remove dirt from the soles, studs, and seams. You can wipe off loose dirt with a damp cloth if you don’t have a brush.
3. Keep Their Shape: Take some old newspaper, crumple it up, and stuff it in the toes of the cleats. It helps them keep their shape while drying.
4. Air Dry: Leave the cleats in a well-ventilated area for 24 hours. It will help any leftover odors go away.
5. Remove Newspaper: After 24 hours, remove the newspaper before your kids wear the cleats again.

Following these simple steps, you can keep your soccer cleats clean and fresh. 

Final Thoughts 

You can keep your soccer cleats in great shape for every game by following these five simple steps to wash and dry your soccer cleats. Taking care of your cleats not only helps them last longer but also helps you play your best on the field. Regular maintenance is important for every soccer player. You can focus on your game and enjoy your favorite sport with clean and well-cared-for cleats. 

At Barcelona Premier Soccer Club (BPSC), we believe that proper care for your gear is just as essential as honing your skills on the field. By maintaining your cleats, you’ll be prepared to bring your best to every practice and match. Stay focused on your game and enjoy the sport with clean, durable, and well-maintained equipment.