Tips on Getting Football Pants Clean

There's no question about it: football players are tough on their uniforms. And although mud and grass stains can be proof of a game well played, you don't want them to stay on your football pants forever. Football uniforms, especially white ones, can be difficult to clean. Luckily, there are several tips you can follow to help keep your football pants looking great all season long.

Washing

Before attempting to clean a football uniform, be sure to read the care label in the garment. Most football pants have removable pads. Be sure to take them out before washing.

If the pants are safe to wash, rinse them with water in a utility sink to remove any loose dirt. Next, fill the tub with warm water and add 1 cup each of laundry detergent and baking soda. Allow the pants to soak overnight, or as long as possible.

Wash the pants alone with a non-bleach detergent. Do not wash colors with whites. Never use bleach or fabric softener, as this may harm the material. Oxygenated detergents are recommended. Use cool or warm water--never hot, as it may cause fading. Use cold water for grass stains, blood or sweat.

Drying

Whenever possible, the football uniform should be air dried. If drying outside, don't place the uniform in direct sunlight, as it may fade.

Avoid putting the football uniform in the dryer; it can cause stains to set in permanently and cause shrinkage to occur. Drying the uniform can also cause any letters or number to peel.

If you must dry the pants in the dryer, be sure to use a low heat setting. Again, do not use any type of fabric softener.

Considerations

Professional dry cleaners have alternate methods of stain removal that may remove tough stains that you are unable to get out yourself. Proper care and maintenance of sport uniforms is crucial. Unwashed uniforms can breed bacteria and facilitate the spread of staph infections.

References

• Football & Staph Infections

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