How to Clean Football Boots Guide

TABLE OF CONTENT

A pair of vibrant neon-yellow Puma Future 8 soccer cleats are resting on a green soccer field during the day. The boots have a black and red pattern on the side. In the background, a group of young soccer players is blurred and running on the field under a clear, sunny sky.

Keeping your child’s football boots clean isn’t just about looks—it protects the upper, preserves traction, prevents smells, and helps stop blisters caused by grit inside the boot.

This quick routine shows you exactly what to do after every session, when to perform a weekly reset, and how to deep‑clean muddy pairs (without shrinking leather or damaging glues).

I also cover metal stud care, AG pellet clean‑up, and safe ways to refresh tired insoles.

Cleaning Routine

Scenario Tools Steps Drying & Finish
After every session (light dirt) Soft brush, damp cloth, mild soap (pH‑neutral), newspaper 1) Tap soles together to knock off loose dirt.
2) Brush studs & soleplate.
3) Wipe upper with damp cloth + a drop of mild soap.
4) Remove insoles & laces to air. 		Stuff with newspaper; air‑dry away from heat. Re‑lace once fully dry.
Muddy match (FG/SG) Bucket of lukewarm water, soft brush + old toothbrush, cloth, newspaper 1) Rinse mud off studs (don’t soak uppers).
2) Brush soleplate, grooves & stud bases.
3) Wipe upper.
4) Remove insoles/laces; clean separately. 		Air‑dry naturally. For leather, apply a pea‑sized dab of leather cream after drying.
AG pellets & black marks (3G/4G) Dry brush, vacuum nozzle (optional), mild soap, non‑abrasive sponge 1) Shake/brush pellets out of collar & insole cavity.
2) Wipe sole & upper.
3) For scuffs, use a lightly damp non‑abrasive sponge (no solvents). 		Dry with towel; then air‑dry. Avoid acetone/bleach—they damage finishes.
Indoor/TF refresh Damp cloth, mild soap, soft toothbrush 1) Wipe non‑marking rubber outsole.
2) Brush tread gaps.
3) Wipe upper and lace channel. 		Air‑dry. Keep outsole clean to maintain grip on indoor courts.
Leather nourishment Leather cream or balm, microfiber cloth 1) Only after the boots are fully dry.
2) Rub a tiny amount into leather panels.
3) Buff gently. 		Rest 12–24h before next use. Don’t over‑treat; it can stretch leather.
Odour control & hygiene Bicarbonate of soda, deodorising sachets, UV shoe sanitizer (optional) 1) Let boots air with insoles removed.
2) Sprinkle baking soda into a sock & leave overnight.
3) Wash laces/insoles by hand; rinse well. 		Ensure everything is completely dry before re‑assembly.
Metal stud care (SG) Stud wrench, cloth, small brush, light thread grease/silicone 1) Brush mud from threads & sockets.
2) Check tightness; replace worn studs.
3) Very light smear of silicone on threads to prevent seizure. 		Wipe off excess; never leave grit in sockets. Store dry.

Big don’ts (protect the boot & warranty):

  • No washing machines, dishwashers, radiators, hot presses, or direct sunshine.
  • Don’t soak the entire boot—target the dirty areas and wipe.

Quick wins for busy weeks:

  • Keep a soft brush and microfibre cloth in the kit bag.
  • Knock‑off + quick wipe in the car park; finish at home.
  • Rotate two pairs if your child trains frequently (one dries while one plays).

Fit & comfort after cleaning:

  • Re‑seat the insole properly; check there’s no grit underneath (causes blisters).
  • Re‑lace using a runner’s loop if heel slip starts after drying.
  • For leather, less is more—tiny cream, well buffed

Surface guide (cleaning‑specific)

  • FG (Firm Ground): Grass + soil = mud in stud channels; brush grooves and the stud bases.
  • AG (Artificial Grass 3G/4G): Rubber pellets migrate into collars/insoles—shake & brush them out to avoid rub spots.
  • TF (Astro/Turf): Fine grit compacts in tread; quick toothbrush pass keeps grip sharp.
  • SG (Soft Ground/metal): Prevent rust & seized threads—clean sockets, dry thoroughly, store in a breathable place.

FAQ

Can I put football boots in the washing machine?
No—machine cycles, heat and spin can weaken glues, deform the plate, and void warranties.

How should I dry boots quickly?
Air‑dry naturally with insoles removed and newspaper inside. Avoid radiators or heaters.

What’s the safest cleaner?
Lukewarm water with a drop of mild, pH‑neutral soap. Rinse cloths often; don’t over‑wet the boot.

Can I use a magic eraser on scuffs?
Use a lightly damp, non‑abrasive sponge for stubborn marks. Avoid harsh solvents or heavy scrubbing.

Do leather boots need special care?
Yes—once dry, massage a tiny amount of leather cream, then buff. Don’t saturate or heat.

How often should I replace metal studs?
When they are rounded, bent, or the bite is reduced. Always clean threads and check tightness.

Written by Igor Koen

Author of the blog post. Image has been taken in wood. Man has black short hair, black jacket and military backpack
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