Do you have a pair of smelly cleats that you just can’t seem to get the smell out of? If so, don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this post, we will outline a few ways that you can clean your cleats and get rid of that pesky odor. Read on for more information.
It’s no secret that athletes’ feet sweat. In fact, if their feet don’t sweat, they’re likely not working hard enough. While sweating is a natural process, it can also lead to smelly cleats. If you’re an athlete, you know how important it is to have clean and fresh-smelling cleats for competition.
Fortunately, there are several ways to clean your cleats and get rid of the unpleasant smell. Check out these tips on how to clean smelly cleats!
Why Should You Clean Your Cleats?
Not only do smelly cleats make for an unpleasant experience for both you and those around you, but they can also lead to health issues. Fungus and bacteria thrive in damp and warm environments, such as the insides of your cleats. So, not only can leaving your cleats uncleansed result in a foul odor, but it can also lead to foot infections and athlete’s foot.
Cleaning your cleats regularly not only helps with the smell, but it can also prolong the life of your cleats by preventing damage and wear from bacteria buildup. How often should you clean them? This will depend on how often you use them, but a good rule of thumb is to clean them at least once every couple of weeks.
What You Will Need
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Brush or old toothbrush
- Towel
- Clean cloth or rag
With these materials on hand, you’re ready to tackle those smelly cleats!
10 Easy Steps on How to Clean Smelly Cleats
Now that we’ve discussed the importance of cleaning your cleats, let’s dive into some methods on how to do it!
1. Baking Soda and Water Paste:
Mix baking soda and water together to form a thick paste. Using a brush or a cloth, rub the paste onto your cleats and let sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing off. Make sure to scrub any tough or stubborn spots.
2. White Vinegar:
Mix water and white vinegar (50/50) in a spray bottle and spray onto the affected areas of your cleats. Let sit for about a few minutes before wiping off with a cloth. Be careful not to saturate the cleats with too much liquid, as it can damage the material.
3. Laundry Detergent:
Mix laundry detergent with water and using a brush, scrub the mixture onto your cleats. Let sit for a few minutes before rinsing off with water. Because laundry detergent is strong, it’s best to spot test an inconspicuous area of your cleats before applying all over.
4. Disinfectant Wipes or Spray:
If you want to take an extra step in ensuring that your cleats are disinfected and clean, use disinfectant wipes or spray on them after cleaning with any of the methods above. You can use these wipes or spray on a regular basis to prevent bacteria buildup. Try to avoid using wipes or spray that contain bleach, as it can be harsh on the material of your cleats.
5. Deodorizing:
To help prevent future odors, sprinkle baking soda inside of your cleats and let sit overnight before removing in the morning. You can also place fabric softener sheets inside of your cleats overnight for a fresh scent. Moreover, after each use, make sure to let your cleats dry out completely before storing them away.
6. Cleaning the Insole:
The insole of your cleat can also contribute to odor buildup. Remove the insoles and clean them separately using any of the aforementioned cleaning methods. Let them air dry before placing them back into your cleats. As an added tip, you can make sure to replace your insoles regularly to prevent odors.
7. Air Dry:
After cleaning your cleats, make sure to let them air dry completely before wearing or storing them away. Using a towel or hairdryer to dry your cleats can cause damage and affect their shape. Make sure to also avoid leaving your cleats in direct sunlight, as it can cause discoloration and damage to the material.
8. Rotate Your Cleats:
If you have multiple pairs of cleats, it is helpful to alternate between wearing them on different days to allow for each pair to air dry properly and prevent odor buildup. Be careful not to wear the same pair of cleats two days in a row. Because your feet tend to sweat during activity, allowing your cleats to dry out completely in between each use can prevent odors.
9. Storing Your Cleats:
Make sure that you store your cleats in a well-ventilated area, away from heat and direct sunlight. This will help with prolonging their life and preventing odors. You can arrange them on a shoe rack or in a storage bin with fabric softener sheets for added freshness. A shoe rack is a perfect way to store them as it will also help maintain their shape and prevent damage. Shoe deodorizing packets or balls can also be placed in your storage area to help prevent odors. But make sure to follow the directions on these products and not leave them in your cleats while they are being stored.
10. Prevention:
To help prevent future odors, it is important to clean your feet before putting on your cleats and to wear socks that can wick away moisture. It is also helpful to regularly rotate between pairs of cleats, allowing each pair time to properly air dry before wearing them again. You can also apply a waterproofing or antimicrobial spray to your cleats to prevent bacteria buildup. Because cleats tend to collect dirt and grime during activity, make sure to clean them as soon as possible after each use.
Following these steps should leave your cleats smelling fresh and looking good as new! We hope these tips on how to clean smelly cleats are helpful for you! Remember, keeping your cleats clean not only helps with odors but can also prevent health issues and prolong the life of your cleats. Happy cleaning!
7 Additional Tips and Tricks!
1. Use a Toothbrush:
For tough, stuck on grime, a toothbrush can be helpful in scrubbing away the dirt.
2. Use Baby Shampoo:
If you don’t have access to laundry detergent, baby shampoo can also work as a gentle cleanser for your cleats.
3. Use Mildew Stain Remover:
If you notice any mildew or mold on your cleats, using a mildew stain remover can help to get rid of it.
4. Use White Wine:
Believe it or not, white wine helps to remove tough stains and odors from your cleats. Just pour some onto the stained area, let sit for a few minutes, and then wipe clean with a cloth.
5. Apply a Waterproof Spray:
After cleaning and letting your cleats dry, apply a waterproof spray to help protect them from dirt and moisture.
6. Use a Shoe Brush:
To clean and shine the exterior of your cleats, use a shoe brush or old toothbrush to scrub away dirt and grime. Use a leather cleaner for leather cleats and a cloth with mild soap and water for synthetic materials. Buff with a clean cloth afterward.
7. Use Newspaper:
Stuffing newspaper inside of your cleats overnight can help absorb any moisture and odors. Replace the newspaper regularly to maintain freshness.
These tips and tricks can help make the cleaning process even easier and more effective. Happy cleaning!
7 Precautions You Can Take
- Always read the care instructions on your cleats before cleaning.
- Test a small, hidden area with any cleaner before using it on the entire shoe.
- Don’t use excessive force or scrubbing, as this can damage the material.
- Let your cleats air dry completely before wearing or storing them.
- Don’t leave your cleats in direct sunlight or heat, as it can cause discoloration and damage.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleaches on your cleats.
- Only use cleaners specifically made for the material of your cleats (leather, synthetic, etc.).
Following these precautions can help ensure that you clean your cleats effectively and safely. Happy cleaning!
Can I Throw Cleats in Wash?
It is not recommended to throw your cleats in the washing machine, as this can cause damage to the material and affect its shape. Because of this, it is important to clean your cleats by hand using the following steps:
- Remove any excess dirt or mud from the surface of the cleats using a brush or cloth.
- Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent to create a cleansing solution.
- Using a sponge or cloth, gently scrub the cleats with the solution, paying extra attention to problem areas such as the inside of the shoe and around the studs.
- Rinse off any remaining soap with warm water and allow them to air dry completely before wearing again.
- For even better results, consider using specialized products such as deodorizing sprays or inserts for added freshness and odor control.
Remember to clean your cleats regularly to prevent buildup and keep them smelling fresh for every game or practice.
How Do You Dry Wet Cleats Fast?
If you need to dry your wet cleats quickly, one option is to stuff the inside of each shoe with newspaper to absorb moisture. You can also try using a fan or blow dryer set on a low and cool setting to speed up the drying process. Don’t place your cleats near direct heat or leave them in the sun, as this can damage the material. Consider purchasing specialized inserts or deodorizing sprays to prevent odor buildup while your cleats dry.
It is important not to put wet cleats near direct heat, as this can cause damage to the material. Additionally, be sure to let them air dry completely before wearing them again to prevent any discomfort or health issues for your feet. Because wet cleats can easily become smelly, regularly cleaning and drying them is crucial for keeping them fresh.
Regularly rotating between pairs of cleats and allowing them time to properly air dry after use can help prevent the need for quick drying in the future. Happy playing!
What Do You Do With Old Cleats?
There are several options for disposing of old cleats. Some are described below:
1. Donate:
Check with local organizations or teams in your community to see if they are accepting donations of gently used sports equipment, including cleats.
2. Sell:
See if there is interest from friends, family, or online communities in purchasing your old cleats.
3. Upcycle:
Get creative and repurpose the material of old cleats into items such as keychains, planters, or art projects.
4. Recycle:
Contact your city’s waste management department to see if they have a program for recycling old athletic gear, including cleats.
No matter what option you choose, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry your cleats before donating, selling, or recycling them. Happy cleaning, and goodbye to those smelly old cleats!
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Conclusion
So, there you have it – some helpful tips on how to clean smelly cleats. Be sure to try out a few of these methods and see which one works best for you. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to keep your cleats clean and smelling great all season long!
By following these simple tips, you can easily clean your smelly cleats and prevent them from getting too stinky. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your cleats smelling fresh. Be sure to follow these steps every time you wear them, and enjoy being the only one with fresh-smelling cleats on the team.
You don’t have to put up with stinky cleats any longer! By following the tips in this blog post, you can banish that embarrassing odor for good. Thanks for reading!
