How to Clean Soccer Cleats Without Damaging Them
Knowing how to clean soccer cleats properly helps preserve traction, comfort, and appearance after every match or training session.
The right cleaning routine also prevents odor buildup, protects leather and synthetic uppers, and extends the life of your boots.
Different cleat materials, from kangaroo leather to mesh and polyurethane, need different care.
If you clean them the wrong way, you can loosen glue, warp the shape, or dry out the upper.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather a few simple supplies before cleaning.
Using the right tools reduces wear and makes the process faster.
- Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Microfiber cloths
- Bucket of lukewarm water
- Mild soap or gentle dish detergent
- Paper towels or dry cloth
- Newspaper or boot shapers for drying
- Optional: baking soda, white vinegar, sneaker cleaner, suede brush
How to Clean Soccer Cleats Step by Step
1. Remove the laces and insoles
Take out the laces and insoles before washing.
This exposes the inside of the cleat and allows each part to dry more evenly.
Laces can usually be washed separately in warm water with mild soap.
2. Knock off loose dirt first
Tap the soles together outside to dislodge grass, mud, and dried turf pellets.
Use a dry brush to remove surface debris from the outsole, studs, and stitching.
This prevents muddy water from spreading across the upper during cleaning.
3. Wipe the upper with a damp cloth
Dampen a microfiber cloth with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap.
Wipe the upper gently rather than scrubbing aggressively.
For most synthetic cleats, this removes sweat, grime, and light staining without harming the finish.
4. Clean the outsole and studs carefully
Use a toothbrush or soft brush to clean around each stud and along the outsole grooves.
Packed dirt in these areas can affect grip and increase wear on the sole plate.
If mud is stubborn, let it soften with a small amount of water before brushing again.
5. Treat the inside of the cleats
Wipe the interior with a cloth slightly dampened with water and a drop of soap.
Avoid soaking the inside, especially if the boot has a foam liner or glued components.
For odor control, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda inside after drying, then shake it out before use.
6. Rinse off soap residue
Use a clean damp cloth to remove any remaining soap from the upper, tongue, and outsole.
Soap residue can attract more dirt later and may leave a dull finish on some materials.
7. Dry them properly
Pat the cleats dry with a towel and stuff them with newspaper or use boot shapers to maintain their shape.
Let them air-dry at room temperature in a well-ventilated area.
Never place soccer cleats on a radiator, in a dryer, or in direct sunlight for long periods, because excessive heat can crack glue and shrink materials.
How to Clean Soccer Cleats by Material
Leather cleats
Leather, especially premium and kangaroo leather, needs gentle handling.
Use a lightly damp cloth and mild soap, then condition the leather if the manufacturer recommends it.
Overwashing leather can dry it out and reduce flexibility.
Synthetic cleats
Synthetic uppers are generally easier to maintain.
A soft brush and soapy water are usually enough for mud, grass, and sweat.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the finish or dull printed designs.
Suede or knit details
If your cleats include suede or knit sections, keep water use minimal.
Clean suede with a suede brush and spot-treat stains cautiously.
For knit materials, blot rather than rub to avoid stretching the fibers.
How to Remove Common Soccer Cleat Problems
How do you remove grass stains?
Grass stains usually respond best to prompt cleaning.
Apply a small amount of mild soap to a damp cloth and blot the stain gently.
If the stain remains, use a soft brush and repeat the process instead of using bleach or harsh solvents.
How do you get rid of bad odor?
Odor comes from moisture, bacteria, and trapped sweat.
Remove the insoles, let everything dry completely, and use baking soda overnight if needed.
Antibacterial sneaker sprays can help, but they should not replace regular drying and ventilation.
How do you clean muddy cleats?
Let mud dry partially before brushing it off if the layer is thick.
For caked dirt, soften it with a little water and then scrub in small sections.
Cleaning mud while it is still wet often spreads it deeper into the upper.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Soccer Cleats
Avoid common mistakes that shorten the lifespan of your boots.
These errors can damage materials, reduce comfort, and weaken performance.
- Do not machine wash unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe.
- Do not use bleach, acetone, or harsh solvents.
- Do not soak cleats in a bucket for long periods.
- Do not use high heat from a hair dryer, heater, or dryer.
- Do not scrub aggressively on printed logos, textures, or premium leather.
How Often Should You Clean Soccer Cleats?
For players who train or compete regularly, a quick clean after every session is ideal.
That usually means removing mud, wiping the upper, and letting the cleats dry properly.
A deeper clean once a week or after heavy use helps control odor and keeps studs and seams in good shape.
If you play on wet grass, muddy fields, or artificial turf, cleaning frequency should increase.
Turf pellets, sand, and moisture can wear down the outsole and accumulate inside the shoe faster than dry-field use.
How to Make Soccer Cleats Last Longer
Cleaning is only part of cleat care.
Storage and maintenance also affect durability and performance.
- Rotate between two pairs if you play frequently.
- Store cleats in a cool, dry place away from direct sun.
- Loosen laces after use to help the upper dry evenly.
- Check studs regularly for damage or uneven wear.
- Replace worn insoles if cushioning breaks down.
How to Clean Soccer Cleats Faster After a Match
If you need a quick post-game routine, focus on the essentials.
Brush off debris, wipe the upper, clean the studs, remove the insoles, and air-dry immediately.
A five-minute reset after every match is often enough to prevent mud from hardening and odor from setting in.
The most effective routine is simple: remove dirt early, use mild cleaning products, dry thoroughly, and match the method to the cleat material.
That approach keeps soccer cleats comfortable, functional, and ready for the next session.