How To Remove Numbers From Your Soccer Jersey [Without Damaging It].

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Whether you’re replacing an old team number or just want to give your football top a new look, removing numbers from a football shirt or soccer jersey shirt can be tricky. If done incorrectly, it could end up damaging the fabric of your shirt.

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Follow our step-by-step guide and learn how to remove numbers from your football shirt without any harm being done. Let’s kick off!

Firstly, can you remove numbers from football (soccer) shirts?

Yes you can, phew! There are various methods to remove numbers from a football shirt without causing any damage.

The best way to remove a number from a football shirt is to use an iron and a pair of scissors, a product like Goo Gone or simply take it to a professional dry cleaners who can remove it for you at a cost.

3 easy ways to remove numbers from your football (soccer) shirt.

#1 Iron it out.

If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to get rid of those pesky numbers, try ironing them off with a steam iron!

Be sure to use a low heat setting (like silk), as too much heat could damage the fabric of your shirt.

Place a regular piece of paper over the number that needs to be removed and then press down firmly with an iron for about 10-15 seconds.

The heat should loosen up any adhesive residue left behind, allowing you to peel the number off with ease. 

#2 Use Goo Gone or WD-40.

If the ironing technique didn’t work or if you don’t have an iron handy, a product like Goo Gone is an excellent alternative.

This product has been around for years and it works like a charm! Simply spray Goo Gone onto the number (or other adhesive residue) that needs to be removed and wait about 30 seconds before wiping off with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Keep repeating this process until all of the residue has been removed from your football shirt. This also works with WD-40!

#3 Consult a professional Dry Cleaner.

If you’re not feeling confident about doing either of these methods yourself, you can take your shirt to a professional dry cleaner who will be able to remove the numbers without damaging your shirt any further.

While this option may take longer and cost more money than the others, it may be preferable if you do not want to risk damaging your shirt by trying out one of our DIY methods listed above. 

How to remove a number from your football (soccer) shirt infographic. The quickest, easiest and most effective method to remove vinyl numbers from a football shirt is to use a steam iron.

How do you get a printed number off a shirt?

The easiest, most cost effective and fastest way to get rid of vinyl lettering from a polyester football jersey is by using an iron.

To do this properly, you will need the following items:

  • An ironing board (or another flat, hard surface)
  • A sharp knife or pair of scissors
  • A damp cloth
  • And washing up liquid (optional).

How to remove a number from your football (soccer) shirt step by step.

Step 1: Lay your shirt out on an ironing board, with the number facing up.

Step 2: Turn on your iron to the ‘silk’ setting and wait for it to heat up. Be sure not to set it too hot as this can cause damage to the fabric.

Step 3: Once you have reached the desired temperature, press down firmly onto the number for around 5 seconds. This should be enough time to start melting away the adhesive that’s sticking it to the shirt.

Step 4: Use a sharp tool such as a knife or scissors to carefully peel off each digit of the number from the shirt. If any adhesive residue remains after peeling it off, repeat steps 3 and 4 until every bit is gone.

Step 5: When all digits have been removed, switch off your iron and let it cool completely before storing away.

Step 6: After you’ve taken off all the numbers, you may notice faint imprints or outlines left behind. To remove these marks, apply a small amount of dish soap onto them and wipe away with a damp cloth.

Step 7: To ensure no trace of any residues from products used during removal remain, you can wash your shirt in a solution of vinegar water!

And voila – your freshly cleaned and number-free shirt is now ready for a new home!

Watch and learn: How to remove a name and number from your football shirt.

Here’s a great video that shows you how to easily get rid of a name or a number from your soccer shirt, step-by-step with easy to follow instructions.

YouTube player

How to remove a name from a football (soccer) shirt?

If you need to remove a name from your soccer shirt, then the same steps for removing numbers and letters or other decals and logos can be used.

Simply lay the shirt out on an ironing board, turn on your iron to the ‘silk’ setting, press down firmly onto the area containing the name (for around 5 seconds), and use a sharp tool such as a knife or scissors to carefully peel off each letter of the name from the shirt.

You may also want to use a small amount of dish soap and a damp cloth afterwards to remove any trace marks left behind by peeling off adhesive residues.

And don’t forget to launder in vinegar water once you’re satisfied with the results!

The final score.

Removing those pesky numbers from your soccer shirt doesn’t have to be difficult nor expensive!

With these tips in mind, you can take control of removing those old numbers without breaking a sweat (or breaking the bank).

Good luck!

This article was written by

  • Anna Adams, Creative Director & Content Lead

    Hi there! I'm Anna Adams, your go-to source for all things women's soccer. I've been crazy about soccer for over 20 years, ever since I was kicking a ball around with my brothers as a kid. I've turned my passion into a career where I get to share all the cool stuff about soccer with you. As a content lead, I've had the awesome opportunity to work with various sports brands and publications. Whether it's the latest gear, pro tips, or just some cool soccer trivia, I'm all about making soccer ac...