A football shirt can last for years if you look after it properly. Follow these simple steps to keep the colours bright and the badge, name and number in perfect condition.
How to wash a football shirt: step by step
- Turn it inside out. This protects the badge, sponsor and any printed name or number from rubbing.
- Wash cold or at 30°C. Choose a gentle or synthetics cycle. Hot water fades colours and weakens prints.
- Use a mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and powder detergents that can leave residue on technical fabrics.
- Skip the fabric softener. It can clog breathable fabrics and loosen heat-pressed details.
- Wash with similar colours — and keep it away from zips and Velcro that can snag the fabric.
- Hang to dry. Dry it on a hanger away from direct heat or strong sunlight. Do not tumble dry.
Ironing a football shirt
Most modern football shirts do not need ironing if you hang them straight after washing. If you must, use the lowest setting, keep the shirt inside out and never iron directly over the badge, sponsor, name or number.
Removing stains
- Grass and mud: let mud dry, brush it off, then pre-treat with a little liquid detergent before washing.
- Food and drink: rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric as soon as possible.
- Deodorant marks: gently rub with a damp cloth and a drop of detergent before the wash.
Caring for player version and retro shirts
Player versions often have heat-pressed badges, so they need the gentlest wash of all — hand washing in cold water is ideal. For retro and collector shirts, wash only when needed and store them on a wide hanger away from sunlight to stop colours fading.
Need help choosing between versions? Read our guide to fan vs player version shirts.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a football shirt in the washing machine?
Yes. Turn it inside out and wash on a cold or 30°C gentle cycle with similar colours, using a mild liquid detergent.
Can you tumble dry a football shirt?
It is best not to. The heat can shrink the fabric and damage printed names, numbers and heat-pressed badges. Hang it to dry instead.
How do I stop the name and number from peeling?
Wash inside out at 30°C or lower, avoid fabric softener, never iron directly on the print and do not tumble dry.
How do I store a retro or collector shirt?
Wash it gently, let it dry fully, then hang it on a wide padded hanger or fold it with acid-free tissue paper, away from direct sunlight.