How to Clean Soccer Cleats: 6 Fast and Easy Steps
Soccer cleats are among the most important parts of your soccer equipment, and keeping them clean and properly maintained will help them last longer, smell good, and look shiny. As a soccer player, there is no better feeling than putting on a fresh pair of soccer cleats, but it doesn’t take long for them to get muddy and dirty.
Throughout my journey as a player and a coach, I’ve had to clean my cleats hundreds of times, and I’ve found that the most effective way is to keep it simple. All you really need to get your cleats looking new is warm water, an old rag or brush, your hands, and patience.
In this blog, I will explain everything you need to know about keeping your soccer cleats clean and give you simple cleaning instructions.
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How do you Clean Soccer Cleats?
Before I go over the main steps of cleaning your soccer cleats, make sure to have the recommended tools and supplies, such as:
- Warm water
- Mild laundry detergent, cleaning soap, or dish soap
- Damp cloth / Dry cloth
- Gentle cleaning brush
- Putty knife or a screwdriver (optional)
- The Boot Buddy (optional, but highly recommended)
- Small bowl
Step 1: Remove Dirt and Debris from Sole of Cleats
The first step in the cleaning process is to remove as much dirt and debris from the bottom of the cleat as possible. One way to do this is to grab both cleats and smack their soles together so all the debris falls off.
If you have a putty knife or screwdriver, you can also use it to remove stubborn dirt and debris, but the best way to clean the cleats is with a reliable soccer cleat cleaning tool, such as the Boot Buddy. You can also remove the laces at this point.
Step 2: Gently Scrub the Cleats with a Cloth or Brush
Next, create a cleaning solution in a bowl using any soap or detergent and warm water. Soak your clothes in this solution and scrub your cleats. If you don’t have a cloth, you can also use a gentle, soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush.
Step 3: Rinse
After you are done cleaning, you can rinse off the cleats and remove any excess dirt or excess soap with a dry cloth
Step 4: Wash Shoe Laces:
The final step of the cleaning process is to clean your laces, which you can put inside of a washing machine with the rest of your soccer bag essentials, such as training jerseys, socks, grip socks, shorts, headbands, etc.
It is best to hand-wash cleats to avoid damage, so avoid putting them in the washing machine.
Step 5: Drying Your Soccer Cleats
Once you are done with the cleaning, it is time to move on to the drying, which is very important and easy. The best way to do this is to put your cleats outside in the sun so they can air dry.
Also, putting some old newspaper inside the cleats can help them dry completely faster since the paper will absorb the water. Although it might be tempting and more convenient to use hairdryers or other heating devices, it is best to avoid them, as they can damage cleats, especially leather soccer cleats.
Step 6: Use a spray or deodorant
Once your cleats are dry, you can spray them with one final touch of spray or deodorant to get rid of stubborn smells.
The Importance of Cleaning Soccer Cleats
Keeping your soccer cleats clean is important for various reasons:
- Confidence:
- Better Traction:
- Too much mud or debris on the sole of the cleats can affect the traction of the studs, which help keep you supported.
- Extended lifespan:
- Cleaning your soccer cleats regularly can help improve the lifespan and longevity of your equipment
Summary
To summarize, cleaning your soccer equipment, such as shin guards, socks, and of course soccer cleats, goes a long way and will help your equipment last longer and smell better. In this blog, I covered the importance of cleaning your equipment in detail, provided simple cleaning instructions, and answered some frequently asked questions.
If you want to have an easier time cleaning your equipment, make sure to grab a BootBuddy, which is one of the best gifts for any soccer player, beginner, youth, or professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Clean My Cleats?
If you’re an aspiring soccer player, it’s best to clean your cleats after every match or training. Not only does this help your cleats last longer and smell better, but it also shows that you take care of your equipment, which shows character.
Can you put soccer cleats in the washing machine?
Using a washing machine might seem tempting, but it is best to hand-wash your cleats to avoid potential damage. You can put your laces inside the washing machine, but cleats are not recommended.
What are the best soccer cleats?
There is no real answer as to what the best soccer cleats are because everyone has their own preferences. Using wide soccer cleats, ideally made from leather, can provide a custom fit because the natural materials mold to the shape of your foot. Also, leather soccer cleats are usually the more premium types of cleats.
What are the most expensive soccer cleats?
The most expensive soccer cleats are the limited-edition models by England National Team legends Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, and John Terry.
What are the most comfortable soccer cleats?
The most comfortable soccer cleats I’ve worn are the Nike Tiempo Legend IX.
