How to Wash Shin Guards for Soccer: 7 Quick and Easy Steps
There are different ways to clean your soccer shin guards to improve hygiene and extend their lifespan. You can either hand-wash them or throw them into the washing machine.
The main reason you should clean your shin guards regularly is to prevent them from stinking up your bag or your room. Shin guards should not be left in a bag after a game or training session, at least for too long, because they can smell really bad and make your bag, and other essential items in there, smell bad too. In this blog, we will go over how to properly wash your soccer shin guards.
How do you wash soccer shin guards?
After a few times wearing your shin guards, you may find they start to smell or look really dirty. The easiest way to wash your shin guards is to throw them in the washing machine, but it is important to check the cleaning instructions for your gear first to make sure it’s machine-safe.
Another option you have is to hand-wash your shin guards by following these easy and simple steps.
Gather Your Materials:
Before starting the cleaning process, make sure to have the following materials:
- A bowl full of warm water, or use a sink
- A natural laundry detergent
- A fine brush
- Clean, soft cloth
Prep Your Shin Guards:
Remove the shin guards from your soccer bag, and take a moment to brush off any visible dirt or debris.
Hand Wash with Soapy Water:
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently scrub the shin guards using a fine brush or a soft cloth. Pay special attention to areas prone to collecting sweat and bacteria, such as the padding and straps.
Soak for a Few Hours:
For stubborn odors or stains, let the shin guards soak in soapy water for a few hours.
Rinse and Wipe:
After the soaking period, rinse the shin guards thoroughly with clean water, then wipe them down with a soft cloth to remove any soap residue.
Air Dry Naturally:
The next step is to let your shin guards air dry naturally. Hang them in a well-ventilated area to ensure they dry completely and eliminate any remaining odors.
Final Inspection:
Once dry, check your shin guards one last time to see if you got rid of all of the stains and the smell.
Conclusion
In this blog, I provided a quick, easy guide to washing shin guards effectively, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hygiene and extending the lifespan of your soccer gear. By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you not only eliminate unpleasant odors but also maintain clean shin guards that may last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you wash shin guards?
The number of times that you wash your shin guards is going to come down to preference. Typically, once a month is fine, but if you play a lot competitively, you may want to do it twice a month. If you find your shin guards are starting to get dirty and develop unpleasant smells, that is a good sign they may need a cleaning soon.
Can you put soccer shin guards in the washing machine?
Yes, technically, you can put your shin guards in the washing machine, but it is not recommended, as different parts of the guards may be damaged depending on the type you wear. Hand washing is best.
Should you leave soccer shin guards in your bag?
Avoid leaving your shin guards in your bag, as they may develop unpleasant odors and make the rest of your equipment, such as socks and cleats, smell too. Leave them outside to air-dry and help naturally eliminate odors.
Do shin guards go over or under socks?
Shin guards are meant to be worn under socks, not over them, whether they’re your team socks, grip socks, or any other type of sock.
How do you wash soccer shin guards?
Shin guards can get really smelly because of the sweat that builds up when you play, which is why it is important to know how to wash your shin guards properly.
