How to Clean Football Pads Like a Pro
There’s no mistaking the smell of well-used football gear. It’s a potent mix of sweat, grass, and hard work. But beneath that familiar scent lies a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and stubborn odors that can degrade your equipment and irritate your skin. Learning how to clean football pads properly isn’t just about smell; it’s about hygiene, performance, and extending the life of your expensive gear.
This expert guide will walk you through the best practices to keep your pads fresh, functional, and foul-odor-free.
Why Cleaning Your Football Pads is Non-Negotiable
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand the “why.” Neglecting your pads can lead to several problems:
- Bacteria and Fungus Growth: The dark, damp environment inside pads is perfect for microbes that cause skin infections like Staph (MRSA) and ringworm.
- Permanent Odor and Stains: Over time, sweat and grime bake into the foam and plastic, creating a stench you can never fully eliminate.
- Degraded Performance: Caked-on dirt and hardened foam can reduce the padding’s effectiveness and flexibility, compromising your protection.
- Shortened Lifespan: The salts and acids in sweat can break down materials, causing your pads to crack and fall apart much sooner.
Expert Advice: The Golden Rules of Pad Maintenance
We spoke with Coach Mike Reynolds, a former collegiate equipment manager with over 15 years of experience, to get his top tips.
“The single most important thing a player can do is not let the sweat sit. As soon as you’re done with practice or a game, take your pads out of your bag and let them air dry completely. A $10 fan from a garage sale pointed at your gear is a better investment than a $50 cleaning solution you’ll use once the damage is already done.”
Coach Reynolds’ advice highlights the cornerstone of pad care: immediate and thorough drying.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Football Pads
Follow this simple, effective process after every use.
Step 1: The Post-Game Field Strip
As soon as you get home, remove all your gear from your bag. Do not leave it bundled up overnight. Take the pads out of their protective covers or clothing (if applicable).
Step 2: The Pre-Clean Wipe Down
Using a clean cloth or towel, wipe down the hard plastic shells to remove mud, grass, and dirt. For the foam interiors, a quick, light wipe to remove excess moisture is sufficient.
Step 3: The Deep Clean (Weekly or As Needed)
For a weekly deep clean, you have two excellent options:
Option A: The Soap and Water Method
- Fill a tub or large sink with lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent (like Dawn dish soap) or a sports-specific cleaner. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals as they can break down foam and fabrics.
- Submerge the pads and use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly) to gently scrub the foam and plastic.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure all soap residue is removed.
Option B: The Disinfecting Spray Method
- Use a disinfectant spray designed for sports equipment. Look for ones that are anti-bacterial and odor-neutralizing.
- Spray a generous amount on all surfaces, paying close attention to the foam areas.
- Let the solution sit for the time specified on the bottle (usually 5-10 minutes).
- Wipe off any excess with a clean, damp cloth.
Step 4: The Most Critical Step – Drying Completely
This is non-negotiable. Improper drying ruins gear.
- Air Dry: Place pads in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight (which can degrade plastic and fade colors). A garage with a fan or a room with a ceiling fan is ideal.
- Never Use a Machine: Do not put football pads in the clothes dryer or use a hair dryer. The intense heat can melt plastic, warp pads, and break down the internal foam, rendering them unsafe.
Cleaning Solutions Showdown: A Comparative Table
With so many products on the market, how do you choose? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Feature | Mild Detergent (e.g., Dawn) | White Vinegar Solution | Commercial Sports Spray (e.g., Clear Gear, Funk Away) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very Low | Extremely Low | Moderate to High |
| Primary Use | General Grime & Oils | Odor Neutralization | Disinfection & Odor Elimination |
| Effectiveness | Good for surface dirt | Good for mild smells | Excellent for bacteria & stubborn odors |
| Best For | Regular, weekly cleaning | A quick, natural deodorizing spray | Deep sanitization after intense games |
| Downside | Doesn’t kill bacteria | Smells like vinegar until dry | More expensive per use |
Expert Verdict: Coach Reynolds adds, “For most players, a mild soap and water scrub once a week is perfect. Save the heavy-duty sprays for the end of the season or if you start to notice a persistent funk that won’t go away.”
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Pads
Avoid these common mistakes to prevent ruining your equipment.
- DON’T use bleach or ammonia. These chemicals are too harsh and will rapidly deteriorate the foam and fabric.
- DON’T submerge electronic components. If your pads have any built-in sensors or communication devices, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions carefully.
- DON’T dry with high heat. As stated before, this is the fastest way to destroy your pads.
- DON’T use excessive force when scrubbing. This can tear the foam or separate it from the plastic shell.
FAQ: Your Football Pad Cleaning Questions Answered
How often should I deep clean my football pads?
A quick air-dry after every use is essential. A full deep clean with soap or disinfectant should be done at least once a week during the season.
Can I put my shoulder pads in the washing machine?
Absolutely not. The agitation and spin cycle can break the hard plastic and warp the structure of the pads. Always hand-wash.
The inside of my pads still smells after cleaning. What can I do?
For a stubborn odor, try a baking soda paste. Make a thick paste with baking soda and a little water, apply it to the smelly foam areas, let it sit for an hour, then rinse and dry thoroughly. The baking soda is a natural odor absorber.
Cleaning your football pads is a simple but vital part of your athletic routine. By incorporating these easy steps—wiping down after use, performing a weekly deep clean, and, most importantly, ensuring complete air drying—you’ll protect your investment, safeguard your health, and step onto the field with confidence, knowing your gear is as game-ready as you are.
