How to Clean Soccer Shin Guards

Determine Your Shin Guard

Before you begin cleaning your shin guards, it's important to understand the type you wear to ensure proper care.

• Slip-In Shin Guards: This type is a lightweight option that features a hard outer shell and foam liner. They're held in place by slipping directly into your soccer socks and are favored for their mobility and minimalist feel.

• Shin Guard Socks: Common for young players, these have the shin guard built directly into the sock for convenience when putting them on and taking them off.

• Ankle Shin Guards: For players looking for extended protection, these feature stirrups that go under the foot and an elastic band that wraps around the calf, keeping them securely in place.

Learn more about how to choose soccer shin guards from our Experts.

Post Game Routine

The simplest way to keep your shin guards from developing a smell is to air them out immediately. Whether post-practice or match, leaving them in a stuffy soccer bag will not only allow them to harbor sweat and odors, but it will make your other items smell as well.

• Remove them: As soon as you get home, it's good practice to take your shin guards and all other gear out of your gym bag.

• Wipe down: Use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or grass.

• Air dry: Place your gear in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. Make sure to avoid extended sunlight exposure as it can break down the materials.

Routine Cleaning

Every few weeks or when you feel they need, hand-washing your shin guards is recommended.

Gather Your Supplies

✓ Bucket

✓ Gentle cleanser

✓ Soft brush

✓ Towel

The Cleaning Process: Hand Washing

Before hand-washing your shin guards, make sure to remove any loose debris.

1. Use Water: Fill the bucket with lukewarm water.

2. Add Cleanser: Add a small amount of gentle cleanser: mild soap, laundry detergent, or sports gear specific cleaner works best.

3. Soak & Scrub: Let them soak for 15-20 minutes before using a soft brush—like a toothbrush—or cloth to gently scrub your guards.

4. Rinse: Make sure to rinse thoroughly. Residue that is not washed off and dries may irritate your skin and hurt the integrity of your shin guards.

5. Dry: Use a towel to initially pat them dry, then air dry completely before wearing or storing them.

Machine Washing

Not all soccer shin guards are machine-washable. Make sure to check the tag or product description for specific washing instructions on how to care for your pair. For machine-safe shin guards, washing them once a month or before storing allows for a thorough cleaning.

• Laundry Bag: To protect the plastic from developing any dings, place them in a mesh laundry bag.

• Gentle Cycle: Always use the gentle setting with cold water. High temperatures can damage the materials.

• Gentle Detergent: A small amount of mild detergent is all that is needed to clean your shin guards. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach.

• Air Dry: Allow them to dry completely in a cool, well-ventilated area before wearing or storing.

Maintaining Your Gear

Following these simple steps will help you extend the life of your shin guards.

• Shin Guard Sleeves: For slip-in shin guards, a dedicated sleeve or compression sock can help keep them in place and absorb sweat before it reaches your guards.

• Rotate: If you play soccer frequently or year-round, having a second pair of shin guards will allow you to let one pair air out while using the other.

• Odor Spray: A quick spray with a sports-gear specific deodorizer can help keep your guards smelling fresh.

Keeping your soccer gear clean is key to feeling your best on the field. For additional questions on soccer shin guards or other equipment, stop by your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.