How To Clean Wet Stinky Soccer Cleats: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Ah, the sweet smell of victory… and the less-than-sweet smell of wet, stinky soccer cleats! We’ve all been there. After a grueling match or a muddy practice, your cleats can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and a source of some seriously unpleasant odors. But don’t despair! Cleaning your cleats doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With the right approach, you can keep your footwear fresh, functional, and ready for the next game.

This guide will walk you through a comprehensive, step-by-step process for cleaning and deodorizing your wet, stinky soccer cleats. We’ll cover everything from the initial assessment to the final drying and storage, ensuring your cleats last longer and perform at their best. Forget about burying them in the garage and hoping for the best. Let’s get those cleats clean!

Table of Contents show

Assessment and Preparation: Setting the Stage for Clean Cleats

Before you dive into cleaning, take a moment to assess the condition of your cleats. This will help you determine the best cleaning approach and identify any specific areas that need extra attention. Gather your supplies. You’ll need:

A soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great)
A bucket or basin
Mild soap or a specialized cleat cleaner
Warm water
Microfiber cloths or old towels
Newspaper or shoe trees (optional, but recommended)
Baking soda (for odor control)
Disinfectant spray (optional, for stubborn odors or bacteria)

Now, let’s assess your cleats. Examine them for:

Mud and dirt: How caked on is it? Is it mostly on the outside, or has it worked its way inside?
Grass stains: Are there any particularly stubborn stains?
Odor: How strong is the smell? Is it localized or pervasive?
Material: What are your cleats made of? (Leather, synthetic, etc.) This will influence the cleaning products you use.
Loose threads or damage: Are there any areas that need repair?

Once you’ve assessed your cleats, remove the laces and insoles. These items need separate cleaning and will allow you to access all areas of the cleat more effectively. Loosen any stubborn dirt or debris before you start washing. Gently tap the cleats together, or use the brush to remove loose dirt.

Step 1: Rinsing and Pre-Cleaning

The first step is to rinse off the loose dirt and debris. This will prevent you from grinding the dirt further into the cleats during the cleaning process. Here’s how: (See Also: Are Laceless Soccer Cleats Good )

Rinse under cool or lukewarm water: Avoid hot water, as it can damage some materials, especially leather.
Focus on the exterior: Direct the water at the outside of the cleats, rinsing away loose mud and grass.
Use the brush: Gently brush away any remaining dirt, paying attention to the cleats, the sides and any areas where dirt is trapped.
Inside the cleat: Rinse the inside of the cleats to remove any loose debris. This is also a good time to check for any hidden areas of mud or dirt.

Once you’ve rinsed the cleats, take a look at them again. Are there any particularly stubborn areas of dirt or stains that need special attention? If so, you may want to apply a pre-treatment cleaner at this stage.

Step 2: Washing the Exterior

Now it’s time to wash the exterior of your cleats. This is where you’ll use your mild soap or specialized cleat cleaner. Follow these steps:

Prepare your cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap or cleat cleaner with warm water in your bucket or basin. Follow the product instructions for the correct ratio.
Dip the brush: Dip your soft-bristled brush into the soapy water.
Scrub the cleats: Gently scrub the entire exterior of the cleats, paying attention to all surfaces, including the sides, the tongue, and the cleats themselves. Don’t scrub too hard, especially on delicate materials.
Target stubborn stains: For stubborn stains, you can apply a small amount of cleaner directly to the stain and gently scrub with the brush.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the cleats thoroughly with clean, cool water to remove all traces of soap. Make sure there is no soap residue.

If you’re using a specialized cleat cleaner, follow the product instructions carefully. Some cleaners may require you to let the solution sit on the cleats for a few minutes before rinsing.

Step 3: Cleaning the Insoles and Laces

While the exterior is drying, it’s time to tackle the insoles and laces. These items often harbor a significant amount of odor-causing bacteria. Let’s get them fresh.

Cleaning the Insoles

Soak the insoles: Fill your basin with warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Soak the insoles for about 15-20 minutes.
Scrub gently: Use your soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the insoles, paying attention to any areas that are particularly dirty or stained.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the insoles thoroughly with clean, cool water to remove all traces of soap.
Deodorize (optional): For extra odor control, you can sprinkle baking soda on the insoles after rinsing. Let them sit for a few minutes, then rinse again.

Cleaning the Laces

Soccer laces can be cleaned in a variety of ways: (See Also: Do Soccer Coaches Wear Cleats )

Hand washing: The simplest method is to hand wash the laces with warm water and soap. Rub the laces between your fingers to remove dirt and grime, then rinse thoroughly.
Machine washing (gentle cycle): You can also put the laces in a mesh laundry bag and wash them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent.
Soaking: For stubborn stains, soak the laces in a solution of warm water and baking soda for about 30 minutes before washing.

Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to rinse the laces thoroughly after washing.

Step 4: Deodorizing and Disinfecting

Now that your cleats, insoles, and laces are clean, it’s time to address any lingering odors and bacteria. Here are a few options:

Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle baking soda inside the cleats and on the insoles. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odors. Then, shake out the excess baking soda.
Disinfectant spray: If you’re concerned about bacteria, you can use a disinfectant spray specifically designed for shoes. Spray the inside of the cleats and let them air dry. Be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.
Essential oils: Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the inside of the cleats.

Step 5: Drying Your Cleats

Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth. Here’s how to dry your cleats effectively:

Air dry: The best way to dry your cleats is to air dry them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Stuff with newspaper or use shoe trees: Stuffing the cleats with newspaper or using shoe trees will help them maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Replace the newspaper regularly as it becomes wet.
Avoid heat: Do not place your cleats near a heater, in a dryer, or in direct sunlight, as this can damage the materials.
Allow ample drying time: Depending on the material and the amount of moisture, it can take anywhere from 12-24 hours or longer for your cleats to dry completely.
Insoles and Laces: Make sure to dry the insoles and laces separately. You can air dry them or pat them dry with a towel. Do not put them in a dryer.

Step 6: Final Touches and Storage

Once your cleats are completely dry, it’s time for the final touches and storage:

Reassemble your cleats: Insert the insoles back into the cleats and thread the laces through the eyelets.
Inspect for any damage: Check for any loose threads or other damage and make any necessary repairs.
Apply a protectant (optional): If your cleats are made of leather or another material that benefits from protection, you can apply a protectant spray or cream.
Store properly: Store your cleats in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Consider using a shoe bag or box to protect them from dust and damage.

Cleaning Cleats Based on Material

While the general steps above apply to most cleats, the specific materials may require slightly different approaches. Here is a breakdown of how to clean different types of soccer cleats: (See Also: Which Is Better Flooring Cleats Or Staples )

Leather Cleats

Leather cleats require special care to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

Cleaning: Use a mild leather cleaner or a solution of warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Conditioning: After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple.
Drying: Air dry leather cleats away from direct heat. Stuff them with newspaper to help them retain their shape.

Synthetic Cleats

Synthetic cleats are generally easier to clean than leather cleats.

Cleaning: Use warm water and mild soap. A soft-bristled brush is effective for removing dirt.
Drying: Air dry synthetic cleats in a well-ventilated area.

Kangaroo Leather Cleats

Kangaroo leather cleats are known for their softness and flexibility, but they are also delicate.

Cleaning: Use a specialized kangaroo leather cleaner or a very mild solution of warm water and soap.
Conditioning: Apply a leather conditioner specifically designed for kangaroo leather.
Drying: Air dry kangaroo leather cleats carefully, and avoid excessive heat or moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Cleat Cleaning Problems

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might encounter some stubborn problems. Here’s how to handle a few common issues:

Persistent odors: If the cleats still smell after cleaning, try using a stronger deodorizer, such as activated charcoal or a commercial shoe deodorizer. You might also need to replace the insoles.
Stubborn stains: For stubborn stains, you can try using a stain remover specifically designed for shoes. Test it in an inconspicuous area first. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
Mold or mildew: If you find mold or mildew, you’ll need to take extra steps to eliminate it. Clean the cleats thoroughly with a mold and mildew remover, and make sure they dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
Damaged cleats: If your cleats have significant damage, such as tears or worn-out cleats, you may need to take them to a shoe repair shop.

Preventative Measures: Keeping Your Cleats Clean Longer

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your cleats clean and fresh for longer:

Rinse after each use: Even if your cleats don’t look particularly dirty, rinsing them with water after each use can help prevent dirt and grime from building up.
Dry them properly: Always dry your cleats thoroughly after each use.
Use a shoe bag: Store your cleats in a shoe bag or box to protect them from dust and damage.
Rotate your cleats: If you have multiple pairs of cleats, rotate them regularly to give each pair time to dry completely.
Avoid extreme conditions: Don’t leave your cleats in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the materials.

Final Verdict

Cleaning your wet, stinky soccer cleats doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps and taking a proactive approach, you can keep your cleats in top condition, extend their lifespan, and ensure they’re ready for the next match. Remember to assess your cleats, gather your supplies, and take your time. With a little effort, you can enjoy the game without the unpleasantness of dirty, smelly cleats.

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Cleaning your soccer cleats regularly is not just about aesthetics; it’s about hygiene, performance, and the longevity of your footwear. By understanding the materials, the cleaning process, and the importance of drying and storage, you can keep your cleats in peak condition. Implementing these cleaning practices will keep your feet happy and your game sharp. So, next time you’re faced with a pair of wet, stinky cleats, remember these steps. With a little care, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful game, one clean cleat at a time.