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Sports Jersey Ultimate Washing Guide

May 13, 2023

Jerseys are used in numerous sports from basketball to ice hockey. They’re typically vibrant in color, which makes them easier to see on the field.

Like most activewear, they’re close-fitting, meaning they will come into contact with sweat and oils from your skin. That’s why it’s so important to wash them after every wear.

How to Wash Sports Jerseys

Are Sports Jerseys Machine Washable?

Sports jerseys are typically made of synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, which makes them machine washable.

Step 1: Prepare the Jersey

clothes in laundry bag

Turn the jersey inside out – that will prevent any embroidery from rubbing against the rest of your laundry and expose the dirty layer to the detergent – then place it in a laundry bag and put it in the washer.

Step 2: Add Detergent

active detergent

Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Skip the fabric softener.

Step 3: Run a Wash Cycle

washing machine settings

Choose a delicate setting and wash with cold water. Do not use hot water – the heat will cause the fabric to deteriorate.

Step 4: Air Dry

drying rack 1

Take out the sports jersey once it’s done washing, and transfer them to a clean surface. Air drying is best; do not use the dryer.

Supply:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Laundry bag

You can wash baseball jerseys, hockey jerseys, etc., in the same load as long as you’re not mixing opposite colors (i.e. lights with darks).

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How to Hand Wash Jerseys

You can also hand wash your jerseys in a large sink or tub. Here’s how to do it.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Drying rack

Step 1:

Fill a large sink or tub with cold or warm water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a soapy mixture.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 2:

Place your sports jersey in once you see bubbles. You may have to press down on the fabric to fully immerse it in the soapy mixture.

Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

soapy water in tub

Step 3:

After soaking, gently rub the fabric against itself to remove any remaining residue. Rinse with cool water afterwards.

rinse with water

Step 4:

Transfer the sports jersey to a clean, flat surface or drying rack and let it air dry. Avoid using the dryer.

drying rack

Washing Instructions for Sports Compression Layers

Machine Washing Compression Layers

Compression layers should be washed after each wear. For example, you can run them through the washing machine.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Laundry bag
  • Drying rack
clothes in laundry bag

Step 1:

Start by turning your compression layers inside out.

To protect the thin fabric, place the item in a mesh laundry bag before loading it in the washer.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 2:

Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Don’t add anything to the bleach dispenser and skip the fabric softeners.

washing machine settings

Step 3:

Wash everything on a delicate setting with cold water.

drying compression layers

Step 4:

Take the compression layers out once the washing is complete and let them air dry.

Don’t put your compression layers in the dryer – the high temperature will damage the fabric.

Washing Compression Layers By Hand

If you want, you can also wash them by hand. Here’s how to do it.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Clean towel
  • Drying rack

Step 1:

Fill a large sink with warm or cool water until it’s 3/4 full. Next, add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent.

You’ll need to agitate the liquid with your hand to dissolve the powder.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 2:

Place your compression layers into the sink once it’s thoroughly mixed and let them sit for 15-20 minutes.

soapy water

Step 3:

Gently massage the fabric, then rinse under running water to get rid of the detergent, then transfer them to a flat surface.

If necessary, you can use a clean towel to absorb the excess water.

massaging fabric

Step 4:

Allow the garments to air dry on a drying rack.

drying compression layers

The Best Way to Clean Sports Helmets

Cleaning a Helmet with Water and Soap

Helmets can get dirty with sweat and oils. Fortunately, they are easy to use.

Supplies:

  • Clean cloth
  • Water
  • Mild hand soap
mild hand soap

Step 1:

Mix a bit of mild hand soap with water to create a soapy solution.

cloth with soap

Step 2:

Dampen a cloth with the solution and use it to wipe the outside of the helmet. Don’t forget to clean the face shield as well, if there is one.

running water kitchen

Step 3:

Rinse the cloth with water, then wipe the surfaces again to get rid of any soap residue.

If your helmet has removable liners, you might be able to toss them in the washer. Never put your helmet itself into the machine, though, as that can compromise its shape.


How to Deodorize Pads and Gloves

Are Pads and Gloves Machine Washable?

Most pads and gloves can be put in the washing machine. Here’s how to do it.

Supplies:

  • Large mesh bag
  • A few towels
  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Drying rack
  • White vinegar (optional)

Step 1:

Place your pads and gloves in a large mesh bag and add them to the washer.

For the best results, wash them by themselves with a few towels to help balance the load.

clothes in laundry bag

Step 2:

Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and wash the pads and gloves with cold water; hot water can cause the items to deteriorate quickly.

If necessary, you can add a cup of white vinegar to eliminate odors.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 3:

Remove the pads and gloves from the machine once the cycle is finished and allow them to air dry.

air dry

Don’t use bleach or fabric softener when washing pads and gloves.

Hand Washing Pads and Gloves

You can also wash your pads and gloves by hand in the sink.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Drying rack
activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 1:

Fill a sink with cool water and mix in a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent.

soapy mixture

Step 2:

Carefully place the pads and gloves into the water so that they’re fully submerged in the liquid and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.

running water kitchen

Step 3:

Swirl the items a few times before taking them out. Rinse them under plain water to remove the detergent, then place them on a drying rack.


How to Clean Sports Cleats

Cleaning Your Cleats With Detergent

The best way to clean your sports cleats is by hand with a bit of detergent.

Supplies:

  • ACTIVE Detergent
  • Water
  • Small bowl
  • Old toothbrush
  • Old newspapers (optional)

Step 1:

Lightly hit your cleats together to remove any dirt or mud that might be stuck on the surface.

sports cleats

Step 2:

Fill a small bowl with warm water and create a solution by adding a bit of ACTIVE Detergent powder.

activewear laundry detergent gym clothing deodorizer

Step 3:

Dampen an old toothbrush with the soapy solution and use it to gently scrub the outside of the cleats.

Remember to pay extra attention to any stained areas.

scrub with old toothbrush

Step 4:

Wipe the soap away with a wet cloth and allow them to dry fully before wearing them again.

If necessary, you can stuff them with old newspapers to get rid of excess moisture.

crumpled newspapers

Some cleats come with removable insoles. If that’s the case, it’s best to wash them separately, either by putting them in the machine or washing them by hand).


How to Wash Sports Jersey and Other Gear – FAQs

How can you remove stains from jerseys?

Stains, such as sweat stains or grass stains, should be pre-treated before washing.

We recommend using ACTIVE Detergent. Simply dissolve a bit of the powder in warm water and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit on the surface for 15-20 minutes before rinsing, and laundering as normal.

Can you air-dry your jersey and other clothes outside?

It’s best to air dry them indoors as you don’t want to expose them to direct sunlight (the sun’s rays can cause the dyes to fade).

Is it better to use the washing machine for sports jerseys?

Hand washing will be gentler on your jerseys. However, there’s nothing wrong with using the washing machine as long as you separate your items based on color and use laundry bags.

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Picture of Sophia Grant

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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