How to wash a football (soccer) shirt the right way [So you don’t ruin it].

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It’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the days are getting shorter, and football season is in full swing. If you’re new to the world of football, you might not know that there’s a right way and a wrong way to wash a football shirt. The wrong way will result in a ruined shirt, while the right way will keep your shirt looking fresh for years to come. Here’s how to wash a football shirt the right way.

How to wash your football shirt the right way.

Step 1: Check the care label

The first step to washing your football shirt the right way is to check the care label. The care label will tell you what fabric your shirt is made from and what temperature you should wash it at.

It’s important to follow the care label instructions, as washing your shirt at too high or too low of a temperature can damage the fabric. 

Step 2: Prepare your shirt for washing

Once you’ve checked the care label, it’s time to prepare your shirt for washing. Start by turning your shirt inside out and fastening any buttons or zips. This will help protect the fabric from damage during the washing cycle.

Next, give your shirt a quick once-over to spot any areas that need extra attention, such as grass stains or muddy patches. Pre-treating these areas with a stain remover will help lift the stain before it has a chance to set in. 

Step 3: Pre-treat the stain(s)

If you’re not sure how to do this, simply Google “how to pretreat [stain type].” You can also try one of these DIY laundry hacks. Once the stains have been pretreated, it’s time to move on to step two.

Step 4: Wash the shirt 

If your shirt is made of delicate fabric, wash it on the gentle cycle. Otherwise, wash it on the regular cycle. Be sure to use cold water and add the laundry detergent according to the instructions on the bottle. 

If in doubt, always wash on a cooler setting. Add a mild detergent and hit start!

Once the cycle has finished, take a look at your shirt. If there are still stains, repeat steps one and three until they are gone. 

Step 5: Hang your shirt up to dry

Once your shirt has finished its washing cycle, it’s time to hang it up to dry. Never put your football shirt in the tumble dryer, as this can damage the fabric. Instead, simply hang it up on a clothesline or drying rack and allow it to air dry naturally.

Once dry, give your shirt a quick iron if necessary – this will help keep it looking sharp for match day. 

And that’s it! Washing your football shirt is really easy when you know how. Just make sure to follow these simple steps and you’ll have no trouble keeping your shirts looking as good as new. 

how to wash a football shirt top tips

Watch and learn: The best way to wash a football shirt.

here’s a great video that shows you the best way to wash a football shirt or jersey without ruining the stuck-on decals, logos names or numbers!

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Can I put my football shirt in the washing machine?

Yes, you can put your football shirt in the washing machine. However, it’s important to check the care label first.

The care label will tell you what fabric your shirt is made from and what temperature you should wash it at. It’s important to follow the care label instructions, as washing your shirt at too high or too low of a temperature can damage the fabric. 

Will my football shirt shrink in wash?

Possibly. Again, it depends on the care label.

Most synthetic fabrics (such as polyester) are less likely to shrink in the wash than natural fabrics (such as cotton). However, it’s always best to check the care label before washing to be sure.

In general, it’s best to avoid putting your football shirt in the dryer, as this can cause shrinking. Instead, hang your shirt up to air dry. 

What is the best way to remove stains from my football shirt?

The best way to remove stains from your football shirt will depend on the type of stain.

For example, grass stains are best treated with a vinegar solution, while blood stains are best treated with cold water.

If you’re not sure how to treat a particular stain, you can always consult the care label or Google it. There are also many great DIY laundry hacks that can help you remove even the toughest stains. 

How do you get Vicks out of a soccer shirt?

When it comes to washing off Vicks Vaporub from a soccer kit, the challenge is real!

But never fear; with the right supplies and techniques, you can get those smudged VapoRub stains out like a pro.

The trick is to use a pre-wash stain remover that contains enzymes to help break down the ointment before laundry day.

Then, when you throw your jersey into the wash, stick with standard laundry detergent and don’t forget to set your machine on hot.

Let that thing spin and tada – presto – no more traces of Vicks! Time to hit the field again!

Can you use fabric softener on football shirts?

It’s best not to use fabric softener on your football shirt. This is because it can damage the vinyl decals, logos and numbers that are applied to the shirt and stop them sticking.

You don’t want to rock up to your match with peeling numbers falling off your back!

The final score.

Washing your football shirt is easy as long as you follow the care label instructions and take a few extra precautions. Be sure to pretreat any stains and wash your shirt in cold water to avoid damage. Once your shirt has been washed, simply hang it up to dry – never put it in the tumble dryer! 

By following these simple steps, you can keep your football shirt looking its best for match day.

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...