It's been said image is everything, and that certainly applies to the world of cheerleading. No cheerleader wants to go to a game or competition with a uniform that has stains. The good news is the majority of cheeleading uniforms are made from a durable polyester knit. This type of material is actually easier to clean than other fabrics such as cotton. Remove stains from a cheerleading uniform by following some basic guidelines, and exercising some proper precautions.
Things You'll Need
Water
Laundry detergent
Baking soda
All-fabric bleach
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Instructions
Step 1
Rinse off the cheerleading uniform with water to remove as much dirt as possible.
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Step 2
Fill a sink with warm water, a few oz. of laundry detergent, and a cup of baking soda.
Step 3
Allow the uniform to soak for at least an hour. The longer you allow the uniform to soak, the more the stain will come out.
Step 4
Place the uniform directly into a washing machine. Do not wash any other clothes with the cheerleading uniform. Place a laundry detergent into the machine. Start the washing machine and allow water to fill up to the point where the uniform is completely submerged.
Step 5
Add an all-fabric bleach that is color safe to the water. The Weymouth Youth Football and Cheerleading website recommends using a light application of dry oxygen-based bleach. Let the uniform soak for 15 minutes. Under no conditions should you use a chlorine bleach.
Step 6
Turn on the washing machine with water set on warm. Do not wash the clothes with hot water.
Step 7
Hang up the uniform until it is dry. Do not place the uniform in a dryer. Heat can help the stain permanently remain in the uniform.
Tip
Wash parts of the cheerleading uniform separately if they are different colors. Be aware if the water in your area is hard or soft. Laundry detergent does not work as well with hard water. Add water conditioner to the washing machine if your water is hard.
Warning
Do not dry clean or iron the uniform. Avoid stain removers if possible. Stain removers can actually seal the stain in the uniform.