As the autumn season arrives, bringing with it colder and wetter weather, muddy playing fields inevitably result in dirty sportswear that requires a thorough cleaning.
With the October half-term fast approaching, grubby sports kits will soon be making their way to our washing machines.
While it may be tempting to opt for a high-temperature wash, certain delicate fabrics won’t fare well under such conditions.
Fortunately, sports equipment retailer Net World Sports has partnered with AEG’s laundry expert and lead product trainer, Michael Forbes, who are on hand to share an invaluable and cost-effective washing tip.
The addition of a small amount of bicarbonate of soda to your wash can effectively tackle stubborn laundry issues.
This ‘miracle’ ingredient is widely available and could cost savvy homeowners as little as 65p. A small price to get rid of big smells.
Bicarbonate of soda is particularly effective at eliminating unpleasant odours, reports The Mirror.
Michael from AEG offered some advice, explained: “For lasting odours in sportswear made of materials such as cotton or nylon, you can clean the inside of the garment’s underarms with a bicarbonate of soda paste, which will absorb the sweat smells.
“Just give the item a good shake once set to get rid of any excess before you pop it in the washing machine.”
Other top tips for restoring those kits to their former glory include:
Turn your kit inside out
Sports kits often have printed logos, numbers or sponsor details so always turn your kit inside out to protect the printing while washing.
Check the care label
Most shirts including football shirts should be washed at 30°C unless you plan to hand wash, as hotter temperatures can cause the nylon fabric to break down. Before washing always refer to the care label for specific instructions.
In a survey conducted by Net World Sports, as few as one in five people in the UK said that they felt ‘very confident’ with understanding washing labels when surveyed.
Separate colours
Sports kits should always be separated by colour which is especially important when washing football and rugby strips. Washing a coloured shirt with white shorts and socks can lead to them becoming permanently stained.
Wash at a low temperature
As most sports shirts are made with heat-retaining materials, it’s crucial to use low temperatures to avoid shrinkage or damage. It’s recommended that you set your washing machine to 30°c or below to best maintain your kit.
Michael said: “Washing sportswear at a low or cold temperature like 30°C also extends the lifespan of clothes, and means you can save on energy, water and ultimately money, which we know is a key consideration for families as we head into the winter months.”
Use stain remover when required
Stubborn stains, such as mud and grass, may need pre-treatment with a stain remover or detergent. Be cautious when using strong stain removers on delicate sports gear and always do a patch test on a hidden area (e.g. inside the hem at the bottom of the shirt) to avoid unwanted bleaching.
Michael said: “When dealing with stains such as grass, start by applying detergent directly to the affected area. Gently rinse it under cold water before placing the garment in the washing machine. Remember, always dab – never rub!”
