As the owner of Football Shirt Kit (FSK) and a football fanatic I’ve been asked this question more times than I can count. Let’s get to the bottom of it.
The short answer is yes you can wash soccer jerseys in the machine.
But there’s a catch - you have to do it right. I’ve seen too many of my favourite kits ruined by dirty washing.
So let’s get into the nitty gritty of how to keep your soccer t-shirts fresh and game ready.
Do’s and Don’ts of Machine Washing Soccer Jerseys
1. Turn The Soccer Jersey Inside Out
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This simple step protects prints and patches
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It also reduces fabric wear, so your jersey looks newer for longer
2. Cold Water Only
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Hot water is the enemy of colours
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It can also cause shrinkage, especially on polyester jerseys
3. Gentle Cycle
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Treat your jersey like it’s a delicate item
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The gentle cycle is like hand washing, less stress on the fabric
4. Skip the Spin Cycle
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High speeds can stretch out your jersey
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Just give it a gentle squeeze to remove excess water
What About Detergent?
I can’t stress this enough: use mild, liquid detergents.
Harsh chemicals are a jersey’s worst enemy. I’ve seen too many of my favourite kits ruined by using the wrong soap.
Avoid anything with bleach or fabric softeners - they’ll break down the material and fade the colours faster than a striker on a breakaway.
Air Drying: The Secret Weapon
Here’s a golden rule: never, and I mean never, put your soccer kit in the dryer.
Heat is kryptonite for jersey materials and prints. I learned this the hard way with my first authentic club shirt.
Now I always air dry. It takes a bit longer but your soccer jersey will thank you for it.
Special Care for Special Jerseys
Got a signed jersey or a vintage piece? These need extra special care.
Skip the machine altogether and hand wash or professional clean. It might cost a bit more but it’s worth it to preserve a piece of football history.
The Sniff Test
Not sure if it’s time for a wash? Give your jersey the old sniff test.
If it passes a good airing out might be enough. Over washing can wear out your jersey faster than a midfielder in extra time.
I’ve found that hanging my jersey in fresh air after a match often does the trick.
My Jersey Care Routine
I’ll let you in on a secret: I wash my jerseys after every 2-3 wears (unless they’re seriously sweaty).
It’s the sweet spot between clean and preserve. After a big match or a intense training session I’ll give them a gentle wash. Otherwise a good airing out is enough.
When in Doubt, Check the Tag
Manufacturers know their stuff. Always check the care label. They’re not just for show!
Different materials and prints might need special care so take a minute to read the label.
Storage is Key
How you store your jerseys between wears and washes matters too. I always hang mine up - never fold them.
This prevents creases and keeps the fabric in good shape. If you’re storing them long term use padded hangers to maintain the shoulder shape.
Stains
Grass stains are a badge of honor but sometimes you need to clean them up. For fresh stains a cold water rinse can work wonders.
For tougher stains a gentle spot treatment with a mild detergent before washing can help.
Just be careful not to scrub too hard - you don’t want to damage the fabric or print.
Names and Numbers
If your jersey has a name and number extra care is needed. Always turn the jersey inside out before washing.
When ironing (if necessary) use a thin cloth between the iron and the jersey to protect the print. Low heat is key - high heat can melt or damage the print.
The Green Factor
Here’s something to think about: proper jersey care isn’t just good for your kit - it’s good for the planet too.
By washing less, using cold water and air drying you’re reducing your energy use. And making your jerseys last longer means less waste. It’s a win win!
The Verdict
Yes you can machine wash your football jerseys. But treat them like the prized possessions they are.
A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your kit looking fresh match after match.
Remember your jersey isn’t just a piece of clothing - it’s a symbol of your love for the beautiful game.
Need a jersey that can take proper care? Check out our selection at Football Shirt Kit. From classic club shirts to the latest national team kits we’ve got you covered – literally!
A well looked after jersey isn’t just clean – it’s a badge of honour for any true football fan. Now go wash with pride!
FAQ: Washing Soccer Jerseys
Q: How often should I wash my soccer jersey?
A: Depends on use but 2-3 wears is a good guideline. Always wash after heavy sweating.
Q: Can I use fabric softener on my football shirt?
A: No, don’t use fabric softener. It can damage the material and affect moisture-wicking.
Q: Can I iron my soccer kit?
A: If needed, iron on low heat with the jersey inside out. Use a thin cloth between the iron and jersey to protect prints.
Q: How do I get rid of stubborn stains on my kit?
A: Spot treat with mild detergent before washing. For tough stains, soak in cold water with gentle detergent before machine washing.
Q: Can I dry clean my soccer kit?
A: No, it’s not recommended. The chemicals used in dry cleaning can damage the material and prints.
Q: How do I pack my jersey for travel?
A: Roll it instead of folding to prevent creases. If possible, use a garment bag for extra protection.
Q: Can I wash different colored jerseys together?
A: Separate light and dark colors, especially for the first few washes when colors are more likely to bleed.
Q: How do I prevent my white football jersey from yellowing?
A: Wash in cold water, no bleach and dry in the shade to prevent yellowing.
Q: Can I wash my goalkeeper gloves with my jersey?
A: No, goalkeeper gloves need special care and should be washed separately.
Q: How do I keep autographs on my soccer kit?
A: Don’t wash if possible. If needed, hand wash and air dry flat.
