How to Clean Football Cleats
Football and soccer cleats go through a lot, whether worn by beginners or pro athletes. Mud, sweat, grass stains, and turf can build up fast. Whether you're playing in Rhode Island or anywhere else, clean cleats help you play better and a good pair lasts longer.
At DMK Sports, we help athletes find the right cleats. Also, we always advise them to take care of what they buy, to make the cleats last as long as they should. Here’s a full guide on how to clean football cleats or soccer cleats step by step.
Why You Should Clean Your Cleats
Dirty cleats don’t just look messy. They can affect your game and break down faster. When mud gets stuck in the studs, it can cause you to slip.
Dirt trapped inside your cleats can make them feel hard and uncomfortable. Wet shoes that stay dirty can even start to smell. All in all, dirty cleats won’t do much in helping you perform better. In fact, they can be dangerous, as the dirt on the soles can reduce the grip you have on the ground and might cause you to slip easily.
A quick cleanup routine after each use helps your cleats last longer and keeps your feet feeling good. It also shows that you take pride in your game!
What You’ll Need
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Warm water
- Mild soap or laundry detergent
- Clean cloth or towel
- Newspaper or paper towels
- Mesh bag for laces (optional)
As you can see, no special gear is required. You probably already have most of these at home.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt
Right after your game or practice, knock your cleats together to shake off loose dirt, grass, and turf pellets. You can tap them against a hard surface or use your hands. This helps in removing stuck loose dirt and makes the full cleaning job easier later.
Step 2: Take Out the Laces and Insoles
Next, remove the laces and insoles. Laces can trap dirt, and insoles absorb moisture. Taking them out helps your cleats dry faster and more evenly. Let the insoles air out while you clean the rest.
At DMK Sports, we recommend replacing insoles if they start to smell or feel thin. We stock fresh insoles that fit many cleat brands.
Step 3: Scrub with Soap and Water
Fill a small bucket or sink with warm water. Add a bit of mild soap. Dip a soft brush into the water and gently (yet thoroughly) scrub the upper parts of your cleats. Clean the sides, the tongue, and the area around the laces.
Use the brush to clean the bottom, too. Make sure to remove any stuck-on mud or grass. Try not to soak the cleats completely or for a long time. Just use enough water to clean them. This should be followed to retain the shape and material of your cleats.
Step 4: Rinse and Wipe
Use a clean damp cloth to wipe away any remaining soap or dirt. After this step of soccer or football cleats cleaning is done, you can rinse the bottom of the cleats under light water, but don’t run water over the top. Pat the shoes dry with a towel.
If they’re very wet inside, stuff them with newspaper or paper towels. This helps them keep their shape and absorb extra moisture.
Step 5: Clean the Laces and Insoles
Laces can go into the washing machine if you place them in a mesh laundry bag. Or, you can soak them in soapy water and scrub by hand.
Use a damp cloth with a small bit of soap to wipe the insoles. Rinse and let them dry completely before putting them back in. Do not use heat or a dryer for insoles.
Step 6: Air Dry Properly
Never put cleats in the dryer or near a heater. Heat can melt the glue and change the shape of the shoe. Instead, leave your cleats in a dry, shaded spot with significant air circulation.
Also, remember to always avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the color or dry out the material. Change the newspaper inside the cleats if it gets too wet.
Quick Tips to Keep Cleats Clean Longer
- Brush off mud after each use before it hardens.
- Store cleats in a breathable bag, not in a sealed gym bag.
- Use odor spray or moisture-absorbing inserts.
- Keep a small cleaning kit in your car or locker.
- Don’t wear cleats off the field — it wears down the studs.
At DMK Sports, we carry cleat bags, deodorizing sprays, and extra insoles to help with all of this.
How Often Should You Clean Them?
If the field was muddy, clean them right away. For dry fields, a quick wipe down every week or two should be enough. Before a tournament or game day, clean them for better grip and appearance.
Many of our customers clean their cleats at the end of each weekend. That’s a great habit to build.
Signs It's Time for a New Pair
Even with good cleaning, cleats don’t last forever. Here are a few signs it might be time to shop for a new pair:
- Studs are worn down or falling off
- Cleats feel too tight or loose
- Cracks, tears, or holes in the material
- Bad smell that won’t go away
- Pain in your feet or ankles after each session of practice or match
We carry over 100 cleat styles in stock. Whether you play football, soccer, futsal, or indoor, we can help you find the right fit. Visit our store in Greenville or check out options online.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning football cleats is easy and doesn’t take long. It keeps your shoes looking great, performing well, and lasting longer. Whether you play tackle football, soccer, or futsal, clean gear shows respect for the game.
At DMK Sports, a family-owned soccer store, we’ve been helping players take care of their gear for over 30 years. If you ever need help picking out cleats, replacing insoles, or finding cleaning supplies, or even want to know something as simple as football cleats cleaning, just stop by or reach out!
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