Whether you’re playing a casual game or training for a match, taking care of your football shirts is essential. A clean, well-maintained shirt not only looks great but lasts longer. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your football top.

Step 1: Separate Your Colours

Always wash football shirts according to their colors. Don’t wash your white jersey with darker items like red socks, as this can lead to discoloration. To maintain the original look of your shirt, either sort by color or wash the kit separately.

Step 2: Turn Your Shirt Inside Out

To protect printed logos, team names, or sponsor details, wash your football shirt inside out. This simple step helps prevent damage or peeling of prints during the washing cycle.

Step 3: Read the Label

It’s tempting to use a hot wash for sweaty shirts, but always check the care label first. High temperatures can damage the fabric. If in doubt, hand wash or use a cold wash cycle to keep your shirt in top condition.

Step 4: Remove Stubborn Stains

Football can leave behind grass, mud, and sweat stains. For tough marks, use a trusted stain remover. Remember to patch-test the product on a hidden part of the shirt before full application to avoid damage.

Step 5: Air Dry

Avoid the tumble dryer. Heat can shrink or damage your football shirt. Instead, air dry it—preferably outdoors for a fresh scent or indoors if necessary.

Hand Washing Football Shirts

To be extra cautious, you can hand wash your football shirts. Here’s how:

1. Turn the shirt inside out.
2. Soak it in warm water with color-safe detergent for 10-15 minutes.
3. Gently rinse with cold water.
4. Hang the shirt to air dry.

How to Remove Stains from Football Shirts

For sweat and bacteria stains, try adding white vinegar to your washing machine along with your usual detergent. Vinegar helps break down tough stains and eliminates odors without leaving a vinegar smell. For mud or grass stains, pre-soak the shirt with a dedicated product, following the instructions carefully.