How to Clean Soccer Cleats: A Fast and Easy Guide

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Soccer cleats are one of the most important pieces of soccer gear and equipment and knowing how to clean soccer cleats properly will help them last longer, smell good, and look shiny. As a soccer player, there is no better feeling than sliding 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 to cleat your cleats is by keeping it simple and basic. 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 nice and clean as well as give you simple cleaning instructions.

Tools and Supplies Needed to Clean Soccer Cleats

  • 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

How to clean soccer cleats

There are three main steps to cleaning soccer cleats that are very simple and easy to follow.

Step 1: Remove Dirt and Debris from Sole of Cleats

The first step of the cleaning process is to get rid of 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 the soles of the cleats together so all of the debris falls off.

If you have a putty knife or screwdriver you can also use that to get rid of the stubborn dirt and debris, but the best way to clean the debris off is to use 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 inside of a bowl with any type of soap or detergent and warm water. Soak your cloth in this solution and scrub your cleats. If you don’t have a cloth you can also use a gentle brush, a 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 any damage so it is best to avoid putting your cleats in the washing machine.Step 5:

Step 5: Drying Your Soccer Cleats

Once you are done with the cleaning process it is time to move on to the drying process, which is very important and easy. The best way to do this is to put your cleats outside in nature under direct sunlight so they can air dry.

Also, putting some old newspaper inside of the cleats can help them completely dry 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 these which can damage the cleats, especially if they are leather soccer cleats.

Step 6: Use a spray or deoderant

Once your cleats are dry you can spray them with one final touch of spray or deodorant to get rid of stubborn smells.

how to clean soccer cleats

The Importance of Cleaning Soccer Cleats

Keeping your soccer cleats clean is important for various reasons:

  • Confidence:
    • There’s something empowering about stepping onto the field with shiny and fresh-smelling boots. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about feeling confident and ready for action
  • Better Traction:
    • Too much mud or debris on the sole of the cleats can affect the traction of the studs, which are what help you stay supported.
  • Extended lifespan:

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, I gave you some simple cleaning instructions you can follow, and I also 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 you 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 sound very tempting, but it is best to hand wash your cleats to avoid any 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, however 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 cleats 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 a pair of the Nike Tiempo Legend IX.

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