Your kid’s jersey goes through a lot over a season. Whether it’s sliding tackles, muddy goals, or a surprise post-game soda explosion, uniforms take a beating. But don't worry. We’ve got your back with easy, affordable ways to wash, treat, and preserve those team threads.
1. Don’t Let It Marinate
We know it’s tempting to leave that crumpled, sweaty uniform in the bottom of the sports bag for “just one night.” But bacteria and stains love a dark, damp jersey. Encourage your young athlete to pull it out as soon as they get home (pro tip: bribe with snacks).
Parent Tip: Get a small laundry basket just for uniforms. It keeps them separate and gives them VIP laundry status.
2. Pre-Treat Like a Pro
Over The Counter MVPs:
OxiClean Max Force – Great on grass, blood, and mystery gunk.
Shout Triple-Acting – Easy spray-and-wash option that works on most stains.
Zout – An underrated classic. Especially good on protein-based stains like blood or sweat.
Tide or Another Quality Liquid Laundry Detergent - Pour some on, work it into the stain and let it sit for a bit.
Homemade All-Stars:
White vinegar + baking soda paste - Gently lifts stains and neutralizes odors.
Hydrogen peroxide + dish soap (1:1 ratio) - Works wonders on grass and dirt stains.
Club soda - A great on-the-go stain lifter.
Parent Tip: Don't be afraid to gently agitate any stains by rubbing the fabric together or using a soft brush. Sometimes time is all it takes for the stain treatments to work though.
3. The Wash: Cold, Gentle, and Inside Out
When it’s game time for the washer, follow these basics:
Turn uniforms inside out to protect numbers, logos, and other graphics.
Use cold water to prevent stains from setting.
Avoid fabric softener. It can break down performance fabrics and trap odors. Still want soft fabric? Use a dryer ball instead of fabric softener.
Skip the bleach. It can damage the fabric.
4. Drying: Air It Out
The dryer might be your BFF, but not when it comes to uniforms.
Air dry everything if you can - especially anything with sublimated logos like Signature Locker's uniforms.
Avoid direct sunlight which can fade bright colors.
Need it fast? Use the dryer on low heat with a mesh laundry bag to protect delicate items.
5. Extra Credit: Odor Control That Works
Soak uniforms in a vinegar bath (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) before washing to neutralize odors.
Add a cup of baking soda to the wash to fight funk.
Dryer sheets in the duffel bag help keep things smelling fresh
6. Game Plan for Weekly Uniform Care
After Every Game:
✅ Pull the uniform out ASAP. Don't leave it wadded up in the duffel bag.
✅ Shake off dirt or turf
✅ Spot treat visible stains
✅ Wash with a cold, gentle cycle using a quality laundry detergent
✅ Air dry overnight
Once a Month:
✅ Do a vinegar soak to remove any lingering odors
✅ Inspect for tears or loose stitching and repair if needed
✅ Remind your kid you’re a laundry wizard :)
Final Whistle
Caring for sports uniforms doesn’t have to be a grind. With a little prep and a few budget-friendly tricks, you can keep your player looking (and smelling) like they just stepped onto the field - even if they’ve been sliding through mud all season.
