Whether you’re an adult dealing with your own gear or a parent tidying up your kids’ cleats after a muddy match, cleanup doesn't have to be a tough chore. Keep your cleats game-ready with these tips for both leather and synthetic footwear so you can tackle dirt, odors, and so much more.

Start By Removing Dirt and Mud

Mud and dirt are standard ingredients to a good outdoor field, but it'll all get stuck on your pair of soccer cleats. Before washing dirty cleats, I always take steps to remove as much dried dirt as possible.

• Gently knock the cleats together to remove loose dirt and mud.
• Use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well) to scrub off any remaining dirt from the treads. Pay extra attention to the studs and grooves where mud tends to build up.

Cleaning the Exterior: Leather vs. Synthetic Cleats

Once the excess dirt is gone, it’s time to clean the outer material. Our approach differs slightly for leather and synthetic cleats.

For Leather Cleats

• Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the shoes.
• If there are stubborn stains that don't wipe clean, apply a mild cleaning solution and water mixture. Mild detergent works great, but don't soak the shoes, as it can damage the material. To remove tough scuffs, we're no strangers to putting a magic eraser to work — just be mindful that you don't oversaturate the material.
• After cleaning, gently wipe away soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. Apply a leather conditioner in circular motions to hydrate the material.

For Synthetic Cleats

• Mix warm soapy water and scrub the shoes with a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush. This is usually enough to remove grass stains.
• If you prefer an eco-friendly alternative, use a 1:1 solution of vinegar and warm water.
• Rinse off any soap or vinegar with a clean, damp cloth.

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Cleaning the Insoles and Managing Bad Odors

Insoles can absorb sweat and unpleasant odors over time—and phew, don't we know it. Here’s how we manage smelly cleats:

• Remove the insoles after each game and let them air out.
• To clean, soak insoles in a water and baking soda solution for 15 minutes to neutralize odors.
• Rinse, air-dry, and return them to the cleats once fully dry.

For extra freshness, I put an odor-absorbing pack in each cleat on the days when I don't need to fully wash the shoe, and keep them in a well-ventilated area.

Proper Drying Techniques

Drying your cleats properly is important to minimizing bacteria growth and keeping them odor-free:

• Never dry cleats in direct sunlight or with a heat source like a hair dryer. Excessive heat can warp the material and cause the leather to crack.
• Instead, stuff your cleats with newspaper or a dry cloth to help them keep their shape while drying.
• Let the cleats air-dry in a well-ventilated space. Replace the stuffing if it becomes too damp; you don't want a soggy blob of wet paper towels filling your shoe.

Traditional vs. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods

Whether you choose traditional or eco-friendly cleaning methods, both are effective:

Traditional: A mixture of dish soap and water is reliable for cleaning dirt and grime from cleats.

Eco-Friendly: White vinegar and water are a great natural alternative for synthetic materials. Baking soda helps neutralize odors without relying on chemical-based deodorizers.

Final Tips for Keeping Your Cleats in Top Shape

• Clean your cleats after every game to avoid hardened dirt that becomes difficult to remove.
• Avoid washing your cleats in the washing machine (even on a delicate cycle). It can ruin both leather soccer cleats and synthetic materials.

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Can I use a washing machine to clean my soccer cleats?

It’s best to avoid using a washing machine for cleaning soccer cleats. The excess water, agitation, and heat can warp synthetic materials and dry out leather, reducing the lifespan of your cleats. A hand-cleaning process is best because you can pay special attention to the areas that need it most, control how they're handled, and avoid damaging your shoes.

What should I do if my cleats get soaked in the rain?

If your cleats get wet, remove any excess moisture by patting them with a dry cloth, then stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture. Allow the cleats to air-dry naturally in a well-ventilated space. Avoid using direct heat sources like a dryer or heater, which can cause the materials to warp or crack. Only use a boot dryer if you're sure it's blowing cool or room-temperature air.