How to Clean Baseball Cleats the Right Way

Don’t let your baseball cleats get the best of you this season. Learn how to clean them the right way so they last all year.

Materials Needed

When you are finished playing baseball, it is really important to take the time to clean your cleats. This will help them last longer and stay in good condition. Here is a list of materials you will need to clean your baseball cleats the right way.

Water

To clean your baseball cleats, you will need a few supplies. Gather together a bucket, some soap, a toothbrush (optional), and water. You will also need a place to clean your cleats. A sink, countertop, or bathtub will work just fine.

If your baseball cleats are very dirty, you may want to start by scrubbing them with a toothbrush to loosen any built-up dirt or grime. Be sure to get in all the nooks and crannies, especially around the spikes. Once you have given them a good scrubbing, it is time to move on to the next step.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a great all-natural cleaner and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including baseball cleats. To clean your cleats with vinegar, simply mix equal parts water and vinegar in a bowl. Dip a clean cloth or brush into the mixture and scrub the affected areas of your cleats. Rinse the cleats off with water when you’re finished and dry them with a towel.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of those materials that you can find in nearly every home. It can be used for cleaning, cooking, and has even been known to be used as a treatment for poison ivy. Baking soda is an alkaline substance, which makes it perfect for use as a Cleats cleaner. When mixed with water, baking soda will form a paste that can be used to scrub away dirt and grime.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean your baseball cleats. You will need to use 3% hydrogen peroxide, which can be bought at most drugstores. Pour some of the hydrogen peroxide into a cup, and then dip a clean cloth or brush into the cup. Scrub the hydrogen peroxide into the dirt and stains on your baseball cleats. Rinse the cleats off with water when you are done scrubbing.

Old toothbrush

You will need an old toothbrush to help you with the cleaning process. If you do not have an old toothbrush, you can use a new one. However, it is best to use an old toothbrush because it will be easier to control and will not scratch the surface of your baseball cleats.

Steps

Baseball cleats can get really dirty, really fast. After every game or practice, they need to be cleaned to remove all the dirt, grime, and mud. But,cleaning your cleats the right way is important to extend their lifespan and keep them looking good. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean baseball cleats.

Take the laces out

The first step is to take the laces out. This will make it easier to get to all the nooks and crannies of your cleats. You can soak the laces in a mild soapy solution while you’re scrubbing the rest of the shoe.

Mix a solution

In a bucket, mix one part baking soda to two parts water. This will create a simple cleaning solution that will work on most dirt and grime. If your cleats are especially dirty, you can add a bit more baking soda to the mix.

Scrub the shoes

Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes. If the shoes are still wet from playing, allow them to air dry for several hours or overnight before proceeding.

Place the shoes in a tub or sink, and mix together a gentle cleaning solution of warm water and dish soap. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the shoes, paying special attention to areas that are especially dirty or muddy. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water.

Repeat the cleaning process if necessary.

Rinse the shoes

Rinse the shoes in cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to use a gentle stream of water so you don’t damage the shoes. Dunking the shoes in a bucket of water can also work.

Let the shoes dry

After a game or practice, take the time to let your shoes dry out completely. This is an important step in the cleaning process because it helps prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. If you can’t let them dry naturally, stuff them with newspaper to help absorb moisture.