Have your football cleats turned into a mud-caked, grass-stained mess after practice or game day? If so, you may be wondering whether the easiest fix is to toss them in the washer. The good news is that in many cases, you can learn how to wash football cleats in a washing machine safely, but only if you take a few important precautions first.
What to Know Before Washing Football Cleats in a Washing Machine
Before you clean football cleats in a washing machine, check the manufacturer’s care label. Some cleats are machine washable, while others are not. Materials like synthetic leather, mesh, and fabric uppers usually handle a gentle wash better than real leather or cleats with glued components that may loosen.
It is also important to inspect the condition of your cleats. If the soles are already separating, the studs are damaged, or the cleats have a lot of wear and tear, machine washing may make the problem worse. In that case, hand cleaning is the safer option.
Remove Dirt Before Washing
Never put heavily caked cleats straight into the washer. Knock off loose mud, grass, and debris first. Use a soft brush, old toothbrush, or dry cloth to clean the outsoles and studs. This helps protect your washer and improves the final result.
Take Out Laces and Insoles
Remove the laces and insoles before washing football cleats. Laces can be washed separately in a laundry bag or by hand, and insoles should usually be cleaned gently with mild soap and air dried. Taking these parts out helps the inside of the cleats dry faster and more evenly.
How to Wash Football Cleats in a Washing Machine Safely
If your cleats are labeled machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water. Hot water can weaken adhesives and damage materials. Choose a mild liquid detergent and avoid bleach or harsh cleaners, which can break down the fabric and colors.
Place the cleats in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to reduce banging inside the drum. You can also add a few old towels to help balance the load and soften impact. This is especially useful if you are washing football cleats in a top-load or front-load machine with little padding.
Use the Right Cycle and Settings
A delicate or gentle cycle is the best choice. Avoid heavy-duty cycles, spin settings that are too aggressive, and extra rinse options unless needed. The goal is to clean the cleats without stressing the glue, stitching, or upper material.
What Not to Do
Do not use a dryer. High heat can warp the shape of the cleats, damage the soles, and loosen adhesives. Do not place cleats near direct heat sources like radiators, space heaters, or sunlight for long periods, as this can also cause cracking or shrinking.
Avoid washing leather football cleats in a machine unless the care label specifically says it is safe. Leather usually needs special cleaning products and a more careful hand-cleaning method.
How to Dry Football Cleats After Washing
After the wash, stuff the cleats with paper towels or newspaper to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture. Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area at room temperature. Replace the paper as it becomes damp. This drying process may take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the material and weather.
Best Practice for Cleaner, Longer-Lasting Cleats
Knowing how to wash football cleats in a washing machine can save time, but the safest approach is always to start with a care label check, remove loose dirt, and use gentle settings. If your cleats are delicate, expensive, or made of leather, hand cleaning is often the better choice. With the right care, your football cleats can stay cleaner, last longer, and perform better season after season.
