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Want your cleats to look brand new? Below is a guide on how to clean cleats and why it matters Let’s get started! 🧽
Table of Contents
Why Clean Cleats Matter
Your cleats are more than just footwear; they’re your performance partners. Here’s why keeping them clean is crucial:
Performance
- Better Traction: Clean cleats grip better. Dirt and mud can clog the studs, reducing their effectiveness and making you more prone to slips.
- Optimal Functionality: When your cleats are free from debris, they function as intended. Clean studs mean better cuts, faster sprints, and more precise movements.
Longevity
- Prolong Shoe Life: Dirt and grime can break down materials over time. Regular cleaning prevents this, extending the life of your cleats.
- Prevent Damage: Sweat and dirt can cause materials to degrade. Cleaning removes these harmful elements, preserving the integrity of the shoe.
Hygiene
- Odor Control: Sweat and bacteria can cause your cleats to smell. Cleaning helps to remove these and keeps your shoes fresher.
- Prevent Infections: Dirt and bacteria can lead to foot infections. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of fungal infections and other foot issues.
Style
- Look Good, Feel Good: There’s nothing like stepping onto the field with a clean, sharp-looking pair of cleats. It boosts confidence and makes a statement.
- Professionalism: Clean cleats reflect a professional attitude. Whether you’re at practice or in a game, clean gear shows you take your sport seriously.
Maintenance of Material Integrity
- Preserve Breathability: Dirt can clog the breathable materials in your cleats, reducing their effectiveness. Keeping them clean ensures they remain breathable.
- Maintain Flexibility: Regular cleaning helps maintain the flexibility of the materials, ensuring your cleats remain comfortable and supportive.
Environmental Consideration
- Eco-Friendly: Prolonging the life of your cleats means fewer replacements. This is not only good for your wallet but also for the environment.
Cleaning Supplies You'll Need
Keeping your cleats clean is a breeze when you have the right tools. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Soft Brush 🪥
- Purpose: Removes loose dirt and debris from the surface and studs.
- Tip: A soft-bristled brush is gentle on materials but effective in cleaning.
Mild Detergent 🧴
Purpose: Cleans without damaging the materials.
Tip: Choose a mild, non-abrasive detergent to protect your cleats. One choice that will work well without damaging the materials is Grandma’s Secret Sneaker Cleaner. The cleaner is toxin-free and will remove dirt, grass, stains, and grime from your sneakers without residue or a greasy finish. Grandma’s Secret Sneaker Cleaner is rated 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Warm Water 💧
- Purpose: Helps to dissolve dirt and grime.
- Tip: Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid damaging the materials.
- Old Toothbrush 🦷
- Purpose: Perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- Tip: A toothbrush can get into the nooks and crannies of your cleats.
Microfiber Cloth 🧼
- Purpose: Wipes away dirt and excess moisture.
- Tip: Microfiber cloths are highly absorbent and gentle on materials.
- Purpose: Great for tough dirt and scuff marks.
- Tip: Wet the eraser slightly for best results and test on a small area first.
Newspaper or Towels 🗞️
- Purpose: Helps to dry the interior and maintain the shape of the cleats.
- Tip: Use newspaper to absorb moisture and towels to dry the exterior.
Optional But Useful Supplies
Boot Scraper 🪣
- Purpose: Removes heavy dirt and mud.
- Tip: Use a brush-based scraper to avoid damaging softer materials.
Dish Soap 🍽️
- Purpose: An alternative to mild detergent for cleaning tough stains.
- Tip: Mix with warm water for a gentle yet effective cleaning solution.
Shoe Brush 🧽
- Purpose: Provides thorough cleaning, especially for the sole.
- Tip: Choose a brush with soft bristles to prevent material damage.
Essential Oils 🌿
- Purpose: Keeps your cleats smelling fresh.
- Tip: Add a few drops inside the cleats after cleaning and drying.
How To Clean Cleats - Cleaning Kit Checklist
| Cleaning Supply | Purpose | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Brush 🪥 | Removes loose dirt and debris | Use soft bristles to protect materials |
| Mild Detergent 🧴 | Cleans without damaging | Choose non-abrasive, mild formulas |
| Warm Water 💧 | Dissolves dirt and grime | Ensure it's warm, not hot |
| Old Toothbrush 🦷 | Cleans hard-to-reach areas | Perfect for nooks and crannies |
| Microfiber Cloth 🧼 | Wipes away dirt and moisture | Highly absorbent and gentle |
| Mr. Clean Magic Eraser 🧽 | Removes tough dirt and scuffs | Wet slightly and test first |
| Newspaper/Towels 🗞️ | Dries interior and maintains shape | Newspaper absorbs moisture, towels for exterior |
| Boot Scraper 🪣 | Removes heavy dirt and mud | Use brush-based for softer materials |
| Dish Soap 🍽️ | Alternative cleaner for tough stains | Mix with warm water |
| Shoe Brush 🧽 | Thorough cleaning, especially for the sole | Soft bristles recommended |
| Essential Oils 🌿 | Keeps cleats smelling fresh | Add drops inside after drying |
How To Clean Cleats - Step-By-Step Cleaning Process
Keeping your cleats in top shape involves a detailed cleaning process. Follow these steps to ensure your cleats are game-ready:
1. Remove Excess Dirt
- Method: Bang your cleats together to knock off loose dirt and mud.
- Tool: Use a soft brush to gently sweep away remaining debris.
- Tip: Perform this step immediately after use to prevent dirt from hardening.
2. Prepare Cleaning Solution
- Ingredients: Mix mild detergent with warm water in a bowl or bucket.
- Ratio: Use about a tablespoon of detergent per gallon of water.
- Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage the materials of your cleats.
3. Soak Cleats
- Duration: Let your cleats soak in the cleaning solution for about 10-15 minutes.
- Purpose: This helps to loosen dirt and grime.
- Tip: Make sure the water is only warm, not hot, to protect the integrity of the cleats.
4. Scrub Gently
- Tool: Use an old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush.
- Focus Areas: Pay special attention to the studs and grooves where dirt tends to accumulate.
- Technique: Use gentle, circular motions to lift dirt without damaging the material.
5. Clean the Upper
- Remove Laces: Take out the laces and either soak them in the cleaning solution or machine wash them.
- Upper Cleaning: Use a mixture of dish soap and water or a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to tackle tough dirt and scuffs on the upper part of the cleats.
- Tip: Use gentle pressure to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.
6. Rinse Off
- Method: Use a microfiber cloth dipped in clean, warm water to wipe off the soap and dirt.
- Repeat: Rinse the cloth frequently to ensure you’re not spreading dirt around.
- Tip: Make sure all soap residues are removed to prevent any material damage.
7. Air Dry
- Setup: Place your cleats in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
- Stuff: Insert newspaper or towels inside the cleats to absorb moisture and help them retain their shape.
- Duration: Allow them to air dry completely, which might take several hours to overnight.
- Tip: Avoid using a dryer or direct heat sources as they can warp or damage the cleats.