How to Clean and Care for Your Football Boots: A Complete Guide
Football boots endure intense conditions every match. Whether you play on natural grass, artificial turf, or sand, proper cleaning and maintenance extend t
Football boots endure intense conditions every match. Whether you play on natural grass, artificial turf, or sand, proper cleaning and maintenance extend the life of your boots and keep them performing. Different materials demand different care routines. This guide covers everything from daily drying to deep cleaning, including the controversial question of using a washing machine.
Football Boot Cleaning
The first step is understanding that cleaning leather boots is not the same as cleaning boots made of thread or synthetic materials. The playing surface also influences how much dirt and moisture the boot absorbs. One of the most common questions across our social media channels is how to keep white boots clean.
How to Clean White Mercurial Boots
White boots made from thread materials such as flyknit, primeknit, or EVOknit require the same cleaning method. During the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Nike’s Just Do It Pack featured white as the dominant colour, sparking frequent questions about maintenance. It is important to accept that the boot will almost never return to its factory condition.
For thread and synthetic boots, the priority is keeping them dry and away from direct sunlight after every match. Thread is highly absorbent – it acts like a sponge for water and sweat. If mud is present, you can take the boots into the shower to rinse off the excess. At home, mix a mild soap with water and use a brush to clean mud from the cracks and to clean the rubber sole. To remove internal moisture, place newspaper inside the boots. Leave the paper in for a couple of hours, or overnight if the boots are excessively wet.
Cleaning Leather Boots
Many players leave boots in a bag until the next use, keeping them dirty and soaking them to remove dirt. Newer materials require less maintenance, but leather boots need special care. As with thread boots, you can rinse off excess mud in the shower. At home, clean with water and a brush. Always keep the boot dry and away from direct sunlight, using newspaper inside for better drying.
After the boot is dry, apply a leather balm or cream. This nourishes the leather, improving softness, flexibility, and waterproofing, which extends the boot’s life. Make sure the inside of the boot is dry before applying balm. Avoid over‑applying or using it too frequently, as this can damage the leather shell.
Can You Clean Football Boots in the Washing Machine?
This is a classic dilemma when boots need a thorough clean but there is no time for hand washing. The theoretical answer is no, but personally I have done it with success. If you decide to try it, follow these steps to avoid damage.
Remove the laces and inner soles before washing. Place the boots in a cloth bag or wrap them in a towel to prevent them from hitting the drum, which also balances the load and protects the washing machine. Avoid using the spin cycle to prevent damage to the boots. Set the machine to cold or lukewarm water, with a maximum temperature of 30°C. Higher temperatures can cause elements such as the sole or logos to come off. Use a liquid detergent and run the machine at a medium speed.
To remove odours and fungus, finish with a boot deodorant after washing.
Related search topics
- The ultimate guide to cleaning and caring for your football boots football guide
- The ultimate guide to cleaning and caring for your football boots latest updates
WhatsAppLooking for affordable football boots and jerseys made in China?
Message us on WhatsApp at +86 151 6027 2505, or find us on Instagram at @luxurycoca.
Instagram