How to Clean Smelly Cleats: Football, Soccer, Rugby

Alright, parents, let's talk about that smell. You know the one. It creeps in from the garage, sometimes even penetrates the laundry room, and announces the triumphant return of your young athlete. Yes, we're talking about those notoriously stinky sports cleats – whether they're for football, soccer, or rugby. It's not just a minor inconvenience; that lingering odor can be truly overwhelming!

But here's the good news: you don't have to surrender your home to the funk. With a little know-how and the right tools, you can banish those foul odors and keep your kids' (or your own!) athletic footwear smelling fresh and ready for the next game. It's easier than you might think, and we're here to walk you through every step.

Table of Contents

• Why Cleats Get So Smelly (and It's Not Just Sweat!)
• The Must-Have Cleat Cleaning Toolkit
• Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Smelly Cleats
• Everyday Maintenance: Keep the Freshness Going
• Expert's Recommended Tools
• Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion: Score a Win Against the Stink

Why Cleats Get So Smelly (and It's Not Just Sweat!)

Let's clear up a common misconception: it's not actually sweat that smells bad. Surprised? It's true! Our sweat glands produce a fluid that's largely odorless. The real culprits behind that potent cleat odor are the bacteria that feast on sweat and dead skin cells inside the shoes, especially in a dark, damp, and warm environment. And let's be honest, cleats are practically a five-star resort for these little odor-causing critters.

Here's why cleats are particularly notorious:

• Intense Activity: Athletes' feet sweat a lot during practices and games.
• Material Traps Moisture: The synthetic materials often used in cleats aren't always breathable, trapping moisture.
• Outdoor Elements: Mud, grass, and dirt contribute to the problem, introducing more organic matter for bacteria to thrive on.
• Lack of Ventilation: Cleats often get tossed into gym bags or left in confined spaces, preventing them from properly drying out.

When you combine sweat, heat, and poor ventilation, you've got a perfect breeding ground for anaerobic bacteria, which produce those distinct, unpleasant odors. Understanding this is the first step in tackling the problem effectively!

The Must-Have Cleat Cleaning Toolkit

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cleaning, let's gather our arsenal. Having these items on hand will make the process much smoother and more effective:

• Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush: Great for scrubbing stubborn dirt and grime.
• Mild soap or dish detergent: A little goes a long way.
• Warm water: Not too hot, as extreme temperatures can damage some materials.
• Clean rags or microfiber cloths: For wiping and drying.
• Baking soda: A fantastic natural odor absorber.
• Newspapers or paper towels: For absorbing moisture and helping cleats hold their shape while drying.
• Natural Shoe Deodorizer Spray: For eliminating residual odors and maintaining freshness (we'll talk more about this!).
• Optional: White vinegar (for extra tough odors, but use sparingly).

Having these tools ready means you won't be scrambling mid-clean. It's all about making the process as efficient as possible for busy parents!

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Smelly Cleats

Now for the main event! This comprehensive guide will help you deep clean those cleats, whether they're doused in mud from a rainy soccer game or just carrying that lingering practice funk.

Step 1: The Initial De-Mucking

1. Scrape Off Excess Dirt: Take the cleats outside (or over a trash can you don't care about) and knock them together to dislodge large clumps of mud and dirt. Use a stick, a plastic knife, or an old spoon to scrape off anything really stuck on the sole and sides.
2. Remove Laces and Insoles: This is a crucial step! Pull out the laces and insoles. These often harbor a lot of odor and need to be cleaned separately. The laces can go right into the washing machine with your regular athletic gear, or you can hand wash them with a bit of soap and water.

Step 2: The Exterior Scrub-Down

3. Prepare the Cleaning Solution: In a small bucket or basin, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. Don't go overboard with the soap; a little is all you need.
4. Brush Away Grime: Dip your soft-bristled brush into the soapy water. Gently scrub the entire exterior of the cleats, paying special attention to any caked-on dirt, grass stains, or scuff marks. For tougher spots, you might need a bit more elbow grease.
5. Wipe Clean: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue and loosened dirt.
6. Rinse (Carefully!): If your cleats are synthetic, you can give them a quick rinse under a gentle stream of cool water. Avoid submerging them or using a high-pressure hose, as this can damage the materials or glues. If they're leather, just stick to wiping with a damp cloth.

Step 3: Tackling the Interior Odor

7. Clean the Insoles: Remember those insoles you took out? They're often the worst offenders. Scrub them gently with soapy water and a brush, then rinse thoroughly. Squeeze out excess water and let them air dry completely.
8. Sprinkle with Baking Soda: For the inside of the cleats, liberally sprinkle baking soda directly into each shoe. Make sure to get it into the toe box. Let it sit overnight, or even for 24-48 hours, to absorb those deep-seated odors.
9. Vacuum or Shake Out Baking Soda: Once the baking soda has done its job, thoroughly shake it out of the cleats. You can also use a vacuum with a hose attachment to get any residual powder.

Step 4: The All-Important Drying Process

This might be the most critical step in preventing future odors!

10. Stuff with Newspaper or Paper Towels: Crumple up newspaper or plain paper towels and tightly stuff them into the cleats. This helps absorb internal moisture and maintains the shoe's shape as it dries.
11. Air Dry Thoroughly: Place the cleats in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight (which can warp or crack materials). A porch, garage, or even near a fan works great. Never put cleats in a dryer! It will ruin them.
12. Patience is Key: It can take 24-48 hours for cleats to dry completely, depending on humidity and material. Make sure they are bone dry before wearing them or storing them away.

For more detailed tips on drying, check out our article: Deodorize Shoes Overnight: Quick & Natural Hacks.

Everyday Maintenance: Keep the Freshness Going

A deep clean is great, but regular maintenance is what really keeps the stink at bay. Think of it like brushing your teeth – you wouldn't just brush once a month, right? Here are some easy habits to adopt:

• ✅ Dry Immediately: As soon as your athlete comes home, take the cleats out of the bag! Don't let them stew in a damp, dark environment. Loosen the laces, pull out the insoles if you can, and let them air out.
• ✅ Use a Shoe Deodorizer: A quick spray of a natural shoe deodorizer after each use can work wonders. This tackles new odors before they become established.
• ✅ Rotate Cleats: If possible, have more than one pair of cleats. This allows one pair to fully air out and dry between uses, significantly reducing odor buildup.
• ❌ Avoid Plastic Bags: Storing cleats in plastic bags traps moisture and creates a perfect breeding ground for odor-causing issues. Opt for mesh bags or just leave them out to breathe.
• ❌ Don't Leave Them in the Car: The interior of a car can get hot and humid, creating the ideal environment for those odors to intensify.

These small habits add up to a big difference in the long run. It's about being proactive, not just reactive!

Expert's Recommended Tools

When it comes to battling serious cleat odor, you need products that don't just mask smells but actually eliminate them. Here are our top recommendations, designed with natural ingredients and maximum effectiveness in mind:

For the Toughest Cleat Odors:

When your active family's cleats reach peak potency, you need some serious backup. That's where our Natural Extra Strength Lemon Eucalyptus Shoe Deodorizer Spray comes in. This isn't your average scented spray; it's a powerhouse specifically formulated to destroy even the most Stubborn odors at their source. It uses natural enzymes to break down odor-causing molecules, ensuring the smell doesn't just get covered up, but actually disappears. Simply spray generously into the cleats after use, and let it work its magic overnight!

As one verified customer shared, "This stuff is a godsend for my son's football cleats! Nothing else worked, but a few sprays of this and they actually smell fresh. It's a game-changer!"

For Daily Freshness & Regular Maintenance:

Looking for a great everyday solution to keep those cleats smelling fresh between deep cleans? Our Natural Citrus Tea Tree Shoe Deodorizer Spray is perfect. With its bright, clean scent of lemon and orange oils, it's designed for daily use to prevent odor buildup. It's gentle, plant-based, and effective at neutralizing common shoe odors, making it ideal for regular practices and preventing new odors from setting in. A quick spritz after every game or practice keeps things light and airy.

Beyond the Cleats: Freshness for the Whole Home

Sometimes, the cleat smell isn't just confined to the shoes themselves. It can permeate the gym bag, the locker, or even the dreaded sports equipment corner of your garage. For general area freshness, our range of natural room sprays can help. The Lavender Vanilla, Lemon Vanilla, or Peppermint Vanilla Room Sprays can tackle ambient odors with naturally derived ingredients, offering a pleasant and safe alternative to harsh chemical air fresheners. They don't just mask odors; they neutralize them, leaving your entire space smelling genuinely clean.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes, our best intentions can actually make things worse. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of when cleaning those smelly athletic shoes:

• ❌ Washing Machine: While tempting, putting most cleats in the washing machine is a big no-no. It can damage the materials, dissolve glues, and warp the shape of the shoe, ultimately shortening its lifespan.
• ❌ Drying in Direct Sunlight or a Dryer: Extreme heat is also a cleat killer. It can cause shrinkage, cracking, and damage to the synthetic and leather components. Always air dry at room temperature.
• ❌ Using Harsh Chemicals: Heavy-duty detergents, bleach, or other harsh chemicals can strip away protective coatings, discolor materials, and potentially irritate your athlete's skin. Stick to mild soap and natural alternatives.
• ❌ Ignoring Insoles and Laces: These parts absorb a ton of sweat and odor. Cleaning them separately is crucial for a truly fresh cleat.
• ❌ Masking, Not Eliminating: Relying solely on heavily scented sprays that just cover up bad smells won't solve the underlying problem. You need products that neutralize or destroy odor-causing elements. For a deeper dive into this, check out our comparison: Shoe Spray vs. Powder: Odor Eliminator Showdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my cleats?

For deep cleaning, aim for once a month during intense seasons, or whenever they get particularly muddy or smelly. For routine maintenance, a quick wipe down and deodorizing spray after each use is ideal.

Can I put my cleats in the washing machine?

We generally advise against it. The harsh agitation and heat can damage the materials, adhesives, and overall structure of most cleats. Hand-washing is much safer and more effective.

How can I prevent cleats from smelling in the first place?

The best prevention is proactive drying and deodorizing. Always remove cleats from gym bags immediately after use, take out the insoles, and let them air dry completely. A quick spray with a natural shoe deodorizer will also significantly curb odor buildup.

What if my cleats are still stinky after cleaning?

If you've followed all the steps and the odor persists, you likely have deeply entrenched odor-causing issues. Try a longer baking soda soak (2-3 days) or consider using a stronger, enzyme-based shoe deodorizer specifically designed for extreme odors, like our Extra Strength Lemon Eucalyptus Spray.

Is it safe to use essential oils directly in cleats?

While some essential oils have natural properties, applying them directly can be too potent, potentially stain materials, or just mask the odor. It's best to use them in formulated products like our natural shoe deodorizer sprays, where they are properly diluted and combined with other odor-fighting ingredients.

Conclusion: Score a Win Against the Stink

There you have it! Cleaning smelly cleats doesn't have to be a dreaded chore. With a little consistent effort and the right approach, you can keep your athlete's footwear fresh, extending their life and – perhaps most importantly – saving your nose (and your home!) from that signature sports stink. Remember, consistency is key, and equipping yourself with effective, natural odor eliminators will make all the difference. Now go forth and enjoy those games, worry-free from the funk!