Sports Jersey Ultimate Washing Guide

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 are machine washable.

Before you put the jersey in the washer, turn it inside out – that will prevent any embroidery from rubbing against the rest of your laundry. Not only that but it’ll also expose the “dirty” layer to the outside, which will make it easier for the detergent to do its job.

Tip:  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).

It’s also a good idea to use a mesh laundry bag when washing jerseys. It will prevent the fabric from wearing out during the wash cycle.

Place the bag in the washer and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent.

Choose a delicate setting and wash with cold water. Do not use hot water – the heat will cause the fabric to deteriorate. Similarly, you want to avoid using bleach and fabric softener.

Take out your sports jerseys once they’re done washing, and transfer them to a clean surface. Air drying is best; do not use the dryer.

How to Hand Wash Jerseys

You can hand wash your jerseys in a large sink or tub. Start by filling it with cold or warm water.

Add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent powder to the water and agitate it for a few seconds with your hands to help it dissolve.

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 in there for 15-20 minutes.

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

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

Washing Instructions for Sports Compression Layers

Machine Washing Compression Layers

Start by turning your compression layers inside out. Because they tend to be thinner than regular clothes, it might be a good idea to place them in a mesh laundry bag.

Place the bag into the tub and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Don’t add anything to the bleach dispenser and skip the fabric softeners.

Wash everything on a delicate setting with cold water.

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

Washing Compression Layers By Hand

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.

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

Rinse the compression layers under running water to get rid of the detergent and transfer them to a flat surface. If necessary, you can use a clean towel to absorb the excess water. Line dry or hang dry for the best results.

The Best Way to Clean Sports Helmets

Cleaning a Helmet with Water and Soap

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

Wipe the surfaces again with plain water afterward to get rid of any soap residue.

Tip: 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?

Place your pads and gloves in a large mesh bag and add them to the water. For the best results, wash them by themselves with a few towels to help balance the load.

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. Avoid fabric softeners.

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

Hand Washing Pads and Gloves

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

Swirl the items a few times before taking them out. Rinse them under plain water to remove the detergent. Allow them to air dry on a clean surface.

How to Clean Sports Cleats

Cleaning Your Cleats With detergent

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

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

Dampen an old toothbrush with the soapy solution and use it to gently scrub the outside of the cleats, paying extra attention to stained areas. Wipe the soap away with a wet cloth afterward.

Tip: 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).

Allow your cleats to fully dry before wearing them again. You can stuff them with old newspapers to get rid of excess moisture.

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.