Whether you’re wearing them on the court or as leisure wear, basketball jerseys are comfortable and stylish pieces of apparel. There’s just one small problem with basketball jerseys: washing them isn’t always easy. We wear these jerseys frequently during the humid, sweltering summer months or during intense exercise, which means they’re prone to trapping sweat and stains from grass, mud, and blood. The method you use on your other clothes might not be enough to make your jersey look brand-new and smell great after a trip through the wash. If you’re struggling to get your basketball jersey clean, check out our step-by-step guide on how to wash a basketball jersey for some great tips.
Why Are Basketball Jerseys So Hard To Clean?
Your basketball jersey is harder to clean than the rest of your clothing for two reasons: It’s more prone to staining, and it’s also much better at absorbing sweat.
The reason jerseys are prone to staining isn’t due to their material or overall construction; it’s the way we wear them. Chances are, you wouldn’t exercise heavily in a button-up and your nicest slacks. You would, however, be willing to work hard and play hard in a jersey. People wear their basketball jerseys when they’re playing sports, catching fish, and hiking through the woods. You’re sure to get dirty in these types of environments, and so is your jersey.
The sweat absorption, on the other hand, is mainly due to the synthetic materials in most basketball jerseys. Synthetic materials are great for athletic wear. They dry faster than cotton and can last for years with the proper care. However, artificial fibers tend to hold onto body oils as you sweat. These oils collect in the fibers and create odor-producing bacteria. This odor-producing bacterium is harmless, but it does stink—and most detergents can’t eliminate it.
How Do I Clean My Jersey the Right Way?
Luckily, the cleaning process is straightforward and uncomplicated. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash a basketball jersey.
Before you start, check the tags on your jersey to review the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have stains all over your basketball jersey, don’t count on your washer to remove them. Instead, pre-wash your jersey by filling a bucket with cold water and a squirt of detergent, then scrub the stains out by hand.
With the stains gone, it’s time to wash your jersey. You’ll want to make sure you’re using the right detergent. Most regular detergents are formulated to treat cotton and might not be as effective when washing synthetic materials. The next time you’re at the store, grab a detergent that specifically treats synthetic fibers.
To prevent damage to your jersey, you’ll want to wash it alone, use the gentle cycle, and use warm water. You also shouldn’t put it in the dryer; the heat is bad for the jersey’s material and can damage any numbers or writing on it. Hang drying, while less convenient, is the best way to preserve your jersey’s quality and lifespan.
Are you looking for a new basketball jersey to add to your collection? Greater Half’s patriotic jerseys would make a great addition to your wardrobe. Our jerseys are lightweight, breathable, durable, and fashionable. Come shop with us today!
