Ultimate Guide: How to Wash a Soccer Jersey in 3 Easy Steps?

Your soccer jersey is way more than just a simple shirt. It represents your love and passion for the game. Hold on if you are cheering from the stands or playing on the field. Your soccer jersey gets a lot of use and needs some care to stay in good shape. 

Here is a simple guide to help keep your football jersey looking colorful, fresh, and ready for game day. 

Understanding Football Jersey Fabrics

Before you start washing your football jersey, it’s important to know what it’s made of. Most jerseys are made from polyester, mesh, or a mix of both, and each fabric has characteristics that affect how you should clean it.

• Polyester

This is the most common fabric for football jerseys. It’s durable and lightweight but can trap sweat and dirt in its fibers.

• Mesh

Mesh jerseys are great for keeping you cool during tough games because they are breathable. However, they are more delicate and need gentle care.

• Cotton

While less common, cotton jerseys are comfortable but don’t last as long and don’t wick away moisture as polyester does.

Knowing what your jersey is made of will help you pick the best washing method to keep it looking good and lasting longer. 

However, to learn more here, you can also explore Understanding Soccer Positions: A Comprehensive Guide to Player Roles and Basic Formations. 

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

How to Wash a Soccer Jersey?

Not all the jerseys are the same. Some can be washed in the washing machine, while others are better washed by hand. Here, we will learn to wash a soccer jersey in both ways. 

Key Things to Keep in Mind

Washing your sports jerseys is pretty simple. Just keep these tips in mind:

• Wash at a Low Temperature: Use water that is no warmer than 30°C (86°F).
• Skip Fabric Softener: Don’t use fabric softener or regular detergent.
• Drying Options: You can put jerseys in the dryer at low temperatures. However, air drying is the best choice.

There are other things to consider, like which detergent works best for jerseys and how to wash them while traveling. Always check the care instructions from the manufacturer before you start washing your soccer jersey.

How to Wash a Soccer Jersey in the Washing Machine in 3 Easy Steps?

Here is a simple three-step guide to help you wash your replica soccer jersey in the washing machine.

Brush Off Excess Dirt

Use a laundry scrubbing brush to gently remove grass, dirt, or mud from the jersey. It will help keep your washing machine clean and make sure your jersey gets a better wash.

Wash It in the Machine

Turn the jersey inside out to protect the club logo. Use a cold water setting to prevent the colors from fading or bleeding. You should choose a gentle cycle for a softer wash.

Use a mild detergent made for sports fabrics, and avoid bleach. Also, skip the fabric softener. It can affect how well the jersey breathes and wicks away moisture.

Use Low Heat or Air-Dry

After washing, turn the jersey right-side out and gently shake it to reduce wrinkles. For the best results, hang your jersey to air-dry in a well-ventilated area.

If you need a dryer, set it to low heat to prevent damage. Remember, never iron your jersey, as it can harm the fabric and the designs.

How to Wash a Soccer Jersey with Hand in 3 Easy Steps?

Washing an authentic soccer jersey by hand is important to keep it in great shape. You can also use this method for replica jerseys to help them last longer. Here is a simple three-step guide:

Brush Off Excess Dirt

Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove grass, mud, or dirt from the jersey. If there are stubborn stains, you can soak the jersey in cold water for about an hour to help loosen them. For specific stains, use a gentle stain remover or a mild detergent. You should also follow the instructions on the product.

Wash by Hand

Turn the jersey inside out to protect its details. Fill a sink with cold water and add a hand-washing detergent for delicate fabrics. Gently move the jersey around in the soapy water, paying extra attention to any stained areas. 

Let it soak for a little while if needed. However, avoid rubbing or twisting it too much to prevent damage. After washing, rinse the jersey well with cold water until it clears.

Air-Dry Your Jersey

After rinsing, turn the jersey right-side out and gently shake it to reduce wrinkles. Hang it up in a well-ventilated area to let it air dry naturally.

Avoid using a dryer or placing it in direct sunlight. It is because it can cause fading or shrinking. And remember, never iron your jersey. The heat can damage the fabric and the printed designs. 

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

How to Dry Soccer Jerseys?

You can use the dryer for your jerseys at low temperatures. Just be careful with older dryers, as their temperature might not match what the dial says. If the dryer gets too hot, it can change the color of your jersey or even damage it.

That is why we recommend air-drying your jerseys. It helps protect them since they won’t rub against other clothes and is better for the environment. Functional clothing dries quickly and is usually only slightly damp after being spun in the washing machine.

Avoid drying your jerseys on a heater, as the strong heat can cause discoloration. Direct sunlight can be too hot for drying as well.

Some people worry that UV rays from the sun can fade the colors of their jerseys. While that can happen, even jerseys that get worn often are not in the sun long enough to fade. This fading effect is mostly seen in items that are always exposed to sunlight, like flags or banners.

Removing Stains from Soccer Jerseys. 

Seeing stains on your soccer jersey can be annoying, but don’t worry. You can get rid of them with a few simple techniques. Here are some tips for dealing with common stains:

• Grass Stains

These are pretty common on soccer jerseys. Mix baking soda and water to make a paste to remove them. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Then, gently scrub the area with a soft brush or toothbrush before washing the jersey as you normally would.

• Blood Stains

If you get a blood stain, then you need to act fast. Rinse the stain with cold water to get as much blood as possible. Soak the jersey in cold water and mild detergent for about 30 minutes. Wash the jersey in cold water and air dry it like usual after soaking. 

• Food or Drink Stains

Put a small amount of dish soap on the stain for food or drink stains. Gently rub the soap into the fabric. Then rinse it with cold water. After that, wash the jersey as you normally would to remove any leftover soap.

Always remember to check the care instructions from the jersey manufacturer before removing any stains. Different fabrics might need special treatment. 

How to Avoid Damaging Soccer Jerseys?  

Here, we will discuss some effective tips for washing soccer jerseys for you. 

So, here we go:

• Don’t Use Hot Water

Hot water can make your jersey’s colors fade and cause the fabric to shrink. Always use cold water for washing and rinsing to keep your jersey looking its best.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can make the colors on your jersey fade over time. When you store your jersey, keep it in a cool and dry place away from the sun to prevent discoloration.

• Pre-Treatment is Important 

Pre-treating stains is really important for getting them out. If you skip this step, you might have stubborn stains that are hard to remove later.

• Avoid Using Harsh Detergents

Strong detergents and bleach can harm the fabric and make the colors fade. Instead, choose a mild detergent that is made for delicate fabrics.

• Handle with Care

Be gentle with your soccer jersey, especially when wearing or washing it. Avoid pulling on any loose threads, as this can cause more damage. Also, be careful with jewelry or accessories that might snag the fabric.

Consider Getting Professional Soccer Jersey Cleaning Services

If you can’t get rid of the stubborn stains from your soccer jersey, getting help from Professional Soccer Jersey Cleaning Services would be better. These services are provided by people who are experienced and knowledgeable about handling different types of soccer jerseys. So they can better help you get a bright and clean soccer jersey for your next match. 

Final Thoughts 

Taking care of your football jersey is simple. Knowing what it is made of, using the right cleaning methods, and avoiding common mistakes are all you need to consider. These can help you keep your soccer jersey looking bright and ready for game day. 

At the same time, you must remember to use the right detergent, dry it gently, and wash it at 30°C, and your sports jersey will last you a long time. 

BPSC is dedicated to developing top-tier soccer talent and fostering a love for the game. The club emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship at all levels. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced coaches, BPSC provides a supportive environment for players of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced athlete, the club offers personalized training sessions, competitive league participation, and community outreach programs. By joining BPSC, players become part of a prestigious football family that is committed to excellence both on and off the field.