How to Clean Football Uniforms

It would be nice if football uniforms never got dirty. It would save a lot of time spent trying to remove stains. Cleaning football uniforms doesn't have to be a daunting task, however. A few steps will help you get any football uniform looking good again.

Things You'll Need

• Utility sink
• Large bucket
• Heavy-duty laundry detergent
• Baking soda
• All-fabric bleach (not chlorine bleach)

Instructions

1. Determine what material the uniform is made from. Most uniforms are light, durable, stretch a bit and are a polyester blend of some kind. Polyester is easier to clean than a cotton uniform.

2. Rinse the jersey as soon as you can after the game. Simply run water through it in a utility sink. Remove as much dirt as you can in this step, so scrub lightly. The longer dirt stays on the uniform, the harder it will be to get out.

3. Fill a large bucket with warm water and add a cap of heavy-duty laundry detergent. Don't use hot water. Add 1 cup of baking soda to the bucket. Let the uniform soak in the bucket for several hours. Overnight is best.

4. Remove the uniform, empty the bucket and then refill the bucket with water. Add 1/4 cup all-fabric bleach to the water and put the jersey back in the bucket for another 1 or 2 hours.

5. Remove the jersey and empty the bucket. Then fill the washing machine with cold water and add your detergent. You can also add more all-fabric bleach. Put the uniform in the washing machine by itself and wash on the normal cycle.

6. Hang the uniform to dry after the wash cycle is complete.