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How to Wash Wrestling Headgear, Uniforms, Kneepads and Shoes
August 26, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Wrestling is a combat sport that requires protective gear. Some essentials include mouthguards, knee pads, and headgear.
You’ll also need a uniform or singlet, as well as a pair of good shoes – ones with ridges soles to grip onto the wrestling mat.
Washing Instructions for Wrestling Uniforms
Wrestling singlets are close-fitting garments, meaning they tend to absorb sweat. Fortunately, they can be washed easily – either by machine or by hand.
How to Machine Wash Wrestling Uniforms
Most wrestling uniforms are machine washable. To be sure, check the care tag label – it’ll tell you everything you need to know about how to wash the item.
Step 1: Use a Laundry Bag
Turn your wrestling gear inside out and place it in a large mesh bag. That will minimize rubbing and keep your uniform looking new for longer.
Step 2: Put It In the Washing Machine
Zip up the laundry bag and throw it into the washer, along with any other clothes you’re washing. Just remember to separate dark-colored items from light-colored items.
Step 3: Add Detergent
Measure one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and add it to the washing machine. Make sure everything is inside the tub and run a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water as heat can deteriorate your singlet over time.
Step 4: Let the Items Air Dry
Remove your wrestling singlet and other clothes once washing is complete and lay the items on a clean surface to air dry. You can also let them dry on a clothesline, just keep them away from direct sunlight.
Avoid putting the uniform in the dryer. The heat, even on the lowest setting, will damage the clothing fibers.
Skip the fabric softener. It’ll affect your wrestling singlet’s moisture-wicking finish, preventing it from pulling sweat to the surface.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Designed specifically to remove sweat, body oils and more. Keeps your wrestling gear fresh and clean.
Washing Wrestling Singlets by Hand
You can also wash your singlet by hand in a sink or tub, as long as it’s big enough to comfortably fit the item.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- A clean towel
- Clothesline or drying rack
Step 1:
Fill a sink or tub with cold water and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Agitate the liquid gently to dissolve the powder.
Step 2:
Place your wrestling uniform in the sink, making sure the entire item is submerged. Let it soak for upwards of 30 minutes.
Step 3:
Gently massage the fabric with your hands to remove any remaining oils and dirt, then rinse the item with cold water.
Continue to rinse until there is no more soap residue remaining.
Step 4:
Place the wrestling singlet on a clean surface and use a clean towel to soak up some of the extra moisture.
Step 5:
Allow the uniform to air dry on a drying rack or clothesline. Avoid putting it under direct sunlight and do not use the dryer.
You can remove stains by applying ACTIVE Detergent (pre-mixed with water) directly to the area. For the best results, let it sit for 20-30 minutes before rinsing.
How to Wash Wrestling Headgear
Cleaning Your Headgear with ACTIVE Detergent
Cleaning your headgear once in a while will prevent sweat and oils from accumulating. Here’s what you want to do.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- White vinegar (optional)
- Clean cloth
Step 1:
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a bit of ACTIVE Detergent with warm water.
If necessary, you can also add a bit of white vinegar for extra deodorizing power.
Step 2:
Dampen a clean cloth with the mild detergent mixture and use it to wipe the outside of the headgear.
Pay extra attention to the forehead area as sweat tends to accumulate in that area.
Step 3:
Depending on the type of headgear, you might be able to remove some of the inner liners.
If that’s the case, remove and wash them separately by soaking them in the soapy solution.
Make sure the headgear is completely dry before wearing it again.
Cleaning Your Headgear with Rubbing Alcohol
If you don’t have detergent on hand, you can also use rubbing alcohol.
Supplies:
- Rubbing alcohol
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Clean cloth
Step 1:
Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and water in a 1:1 ratio.
Step 2:
Spray the solution onto the outside of your headgear then wipe it down with a clean cloth.
Do the same with the inside, paying extra attention to the chin and forehead areas. Once you’re finished, allow it to air dry.
How to Wash Wrestling Shoes
Cleaning Your Wrestling Shoes by Hand
We recommend washing your shoes at least once a month during wrestling season. That will prevent dirt, sweat, and bacteria from building up.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Baking soda (optional)
- Water
- Clean cloth
- Soft bristle brush
- Newspaper
Step 1:
Start by removing the shoelaces. Wash them separately in a tub by soaking them in a detergent solution.
Step 2:
Fill a small bowl with warm water and mix in a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a cleaning solution.
You can also add a bit of baking soda if odors are an issue.
Step 3:
Wet a clean cloth with the detergent mixture and use it to wipe the outside of the shoes one area at a time. To clean the sides and soles, use a soft bristle brush.
Avoid scrubbing vigorously as that can damage the fabric. Depending on how dirty the shoes are, you might have to rinse the cloth often.
Step 4:
Let the shoes dry completely, away from sunlight or direct heat. Stuffing newspaper into the shoes will help speed up the process.
Put the laces back on once they’re dry.
How to Remove Odors from Wrestling Knee Pads
Are Wrestling Knee Pads Machine Washable?
Most types of knee pads are machine washable. To be sure, double-check the care labels before tossing them in the machine.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- A few shirts or towels
- White vinegar (optional)
Step 1:
Put the knee pads in a mesh laundry bag; that will prevent them from getting tangled with your other garments.
Make sure you’ve secured all of the Velcro and snaps on the pads before closing the bag.
Step 2:
Place the knee pads into the washing machine.
We also recommend adding a few shirts or towels to help balance the load and to prevent the pads from banging around in the machine.
Step 3:
Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent to the drum. If necessary, you can also add a cup of white vinegar to help neutralize odors.
Step 4:
Choose a gentle cycle with cold water, and press start on the washing machine.
Step 5:
Take the knee pads out of the laundry bag once the cycle is finished and hang them up to air dry. You can also lay them flat on a clean surface.
Do not put them in the dryer – the material can warp or shrink due to the heat, which would affect its fit.
Washing Wrestling Knee Pads by Hand
You can also wash your knee pads by hand in a large sink or tub.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- White vinegar
- Water
- A clean towel (optional)
Step 1:
Fill a sink or tub with warm water and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. You can also add a bit of white vinegar if odors are an issue.
Step 2:
Place your knee pads in the detergent mixture and let them sit for 20-30 minutes.
Don’t be alarmed if the water changes color – that’s just the dirt and residue coming off the material.
Step 3:
Gently squeeze the material to get rid of some of the moisture.
You can also use a clean towel to absorb the excess water.
Step 4:
Let them air dry by hanging them up in a well-ventilated area. Do not put them in the dryer.
Washing Wrestling Gear – FAQs
Can you put wrestling shoes in the washing machine?
Some shoes can be put in the washing machine. When in doubt, check the care label – it’ll tell you whether or not the item can be machine washed. In some cases, you might even be able to wash them together with your tennis shoes.
What’s the best way to deodorize a sweaty uniform?
White vinegar is great at eliminating smells. For example, you can add one cup of vinegar during the final rinse cycle or soak the item in a vinegar-water solution before washing.
Should you add fabric softeners when washing wrestling gear?
No, avoid using fabric softener. It’ll coat your gear with a waxy layer, preventing sweat from evaporating from the surface.
Can you clean wrestling gear with baking soda?
Yes, baking soda can be used as a deodorizing agent. You can also use it to remove stains from your shoes.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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