After an intense soccer match or training session, your soccer cleats are likely to be wet and soggy from sweat or playing in wet conditions.
Or in another case, your preferred footwear may have picked up plenty of moisture from its most recent wash, leaving them quite damp in the aftermath.
Properly drying your soccer cleats is essential not only to maintain their condition but also to prevent unpleasant odors and the growth of bacteria or fungi.
In this article, we’ll explore effective methods and tips for drying your soccer cleats safely and efficiently, ensuring they are ready for your next game or practice.
Discover the best practices to keep your cleats in top shape and extend their lifespan while maintaining optimal performance on the field.
Process for drying your soccer cleats properly
Properly drying soccer cleats is crucial to prevent damage, odors, and the growth of bacteria or fungi.
Here’s a step-by-step process to ensure your soccer cleats dry properly:
Step 1 – Loosen the laces to open up the cleats
Untie the laces and fully open up the cleats, like so:
This allows better airflow and helps expedite the drying process.
Step 2 – Remove the insoles and set them aside to dry
If your cleats have removable insoles or inserts, take them out as well.
This is done to ensure that no moisture is trapped underneath the insoles and therefore prevent any dampness from accumulating.
Step 3 – Wipe excess water away with a dry cloth
Start by removing any excess moisture from your cleats.
Use a dry cloth or towel to gently wipe off the exterior and interior of the cleats, absorbing as much moisture as possible.
Step 4 – Stuff newspapers into them
To speed up the drying process and maintain the shape of the cleats, stuff them with crumpled newspaper or absorbent towels.
This helps absorb moisture from the inside and assists in maintaining their form.
Step 5 – Place them out of direct sunlight
The best method for drying soccer cleats is to let them air dry naturally.
Find a well-ventilated area, preferably at room temperature, with good airflow.
You’ll also want to avoid placing them near direct heat sources like radiators, heaters, or hairdryers, as excessive heat can damage the materials of the cleats.
How do you dry your soccer cleats fast?
If you’re in a hurry and need to dry your soccer cleats quickly in anticipation of your next game or practice session, then here are some methods to speed up the drying process:
Remove excess moisture
Start by using a dry towel or cloth to wipe off any excess moisture from the cleats.
Gently press and squeeze the cleats to remove as much water as possible.
Use a fan
Position a portable fan or a hairdryer on a cool or low heat setting near the cleats.
Direct the airflow towards the cleats, ensuring even circulation around all areas.
This can help accelerate the evaporation of moisture, which is wicked away faster under moving air.
However, you need to be extremely cautious with heat settings, as excessive heat can damage the cleats.
Stuff with absorbent materials
Stuff the cleats with highly absorbent materials like newspaper, paper towels, or microfiber towels.
These materials will help soak up moisture from the interior as well as retain the overall shape of the cleats in the process.
Replace the stuffing periodically as it becomes saturated.
Silica gel packs
Place silica gel packs inside the cleats.
These packs are excellent moisture absorbers and can help expedite the drying process.
You can find silica gel packs in packaging or purchase them separately.
Utilize a dehumidifier
If you have access to a dehumidifier, place it in the room where the cleats are drying.
The dehumidifier will reduce the humidity in the air, allowing the cleats to dry faster.
How do you dry wet soccer cleats overnight?
Drying wet soccer cleats overnight requires a method that balances effectiveness and safety to avoid damaging the cleats.
Leave the cleats in a well-ventilated area overnight to allow for natural evaporation.
The drying time may vary depending on factors such as the level of dampness, humidity levels, and the materials used in the cleats.
Typically, overnight drying allows for sufficient time to dry them thoroughly.
You can also stuff the cleats with absorbent materials such as newspapers to soak up any excess moisture which will ensure the cleats are dry at the break of dawn.
Can you dry soccer cleats without newspaper?
Yes, you can dry soccer cleats without using newspaper.
While newspaper is a commonly used and effective method for absorbing moisture, there are alternative options available.
Here are a few alternatives to drying soccer cleats without using newspaper:
Microfiber towels
Instead of newspaper, use clean and absorbent microfiber towels to blot and remove excess moisture from the cleats.
Microfiber towels are highly absorbent and can help speed up the drying process.
Paper towels
If you don’t have newspaper on hand, paper towels can also serve as a substitute.
Press and pat the cleats with paper towels to absorb as much moisture as possible.
Bath towels or cotton cloths
Regular bath towels or cotton cloths can also be used to remove excess moisture from the cleats.
Gently press and squeeze the cleats with the towel or cloth to absorb the water.
Air drying
After removing the excess moisture, allow the cleats to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
Place them in a location with good airflow, such as near an open window or a room with a ceiling fan.
The air circulation will aid in drying the cleats without the need for newspaper.
Can you put soccer cleats in the dryer?
It’s generally not recommended to put soccer cleats in a dryer.
Soccer cleats are often made of materials that can be sensitive to heat, and the intense heat and tumbling action of a dryer can cause damage, deformation, or in the worst case scenario even melt the materials.
Concluding thoughts
Properly drying your soccer cleats is essential for maintaining their condition, preventing odors, and ensuring optimal performance on the field.
Remember, patience is key when drying soccer cleats.
It’s important to allow sufficient time for them to air dry naturally.
Rushing the process by using excessive heat or improper drying methods can compromise the cleats’ fit, shape, and longevity.
By taking care of your cleats and allowing them to dry properly, you’ll be ready to tackle the game with confidence, knowing that your footwear is in top condition.
For similar content on soccer cleats, have a read of our article which outlines how to clean them, as well as our post talking about how long a new pair of soccer cleats should generally last or this detailed blog entry on how to effectively break in soccer cleats.
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