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How to wash basketball shorts
How to wash basketball shorts
How to Wash Shorts: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Wash Shorts
Laundry
Turn the shorts inside out and place them into the washing machine. Add laundry detergent and adjust the settings on the washing machine to delicate/gentle and wash with cold water. Once the spin cycle has completed, remove the shorts and hang or lay flat to air dry or place in the dryer on tumble dry low.
This is How to Wash Shorts: Step-by-Step Guide.
Wether you are going for a run, relaxing at the beach, or barbecuing in the back yard, your shorts are bound to get dirty.
Our article provides step-by-step instructions on how to wash shorts made from almost any fabric, including cotton, polyester, spandex, rayon, and blended fabrics.
The shorts can range from jean shorts to khaki shorts to dress shorts to board shorts, really, any kind of short!
Using the machine washing is the best and most convenient way to wash shorts, however if you do not have access to a washing machine, you can also hand wash them.![]()
Our article has detailed instructions on how to wash shorts in the washing machine as well as how to wash shorts by hand.
- How to wash shorts
- How to wash shorts in the washing machine
- How to wash shorts by hand
- FAQ
How to Wash Shorts
The washing instructions below are safe to use with shorts made from every type of fabric (not including delicates such as silk or wool) including cotton, polyester (can you shrink polyester), spandex, nylon, rayon, and blended fabrics.
However if you find the instructions to take you out of your comfort zone you can instead take your shorts to your local dry cleaners. These professionals will take care of your shirts with the care they deserve. Learn how much dry cleaning costs and how long dry cleaning takes.
Learn from the other articles we have with detailed instructions on how to wash all of your wardrobe.
- How to Wash Sweatpants
- How to Wash a Hoodie
- How to Wash Joggers
- How to Wash Jeans
- How to Wash a T-shirt
- How to Wash Shoes
- How to Wash Slippers
- How to Wash Shorts
- How to Wash Shoe Laces
1.
How to Wash Shorts in the Washing Machine
Before you put your shorts in the washing machine, you need to sort your laundry into the correct piles. Wash white clothes with whites, wash dark clothes with darks and wash colored clothes with other colors.
Follow the instructions below to wash shorts in the washing machine.
Things You’ll Need:
- A washing machine
- Laundry detergent
- A mesh laundry bag (optional)
- A pair of shorts
How to Wash Shorts in the Washing Machine Steps:
- Turn the shorts inside out. Be sure to empty the front and back pockets if there are any, before washing. If the shorts have a drawstring, you may wish to tie it so that it does not get pulled in the washing machine. (Optional: Place the shorts into a mesh laundry bag)
- Place the shorts in the washing machine and add liquid laundry detergent.
Make sure the laundry detergent you are using is suitable for the color as well as type of fabric that your shorts are made from. - Adjust the settings on the washing machine to the gentle/delicate setting. If the shorts are more dirty, you may wish to use the normal setting.
- Use the cold water setting on the washing machine. Wash shorts with cold water to avoid shrinking and color fading. Hot water will shrink your shorts.
- Push start and run the wash cycle (how long does a washer take?).
- Once finished, remove the shorts from the washing machine and hang or lay flat on a drying rack to air dry (line dry or dry flat.) If you would like to use the dryer, use the air dry or tumble dry low setting.
Learn how to use a dryer properly with our detailed article. Also understand how long does a dryer take.
How to Wash Shorts in the Washing Machine: Tip
Wash your shorts with other garments with similar texture, color, and weight and that are made from a similar type of fabric.
Sorting your laundry will help to keep your whites white, your darks dark, and will help to maintain the quality of your clothes for a longer period of time.
2. How to Wash Shorts by Hand
Follow the instructions below to wash shorts by hand.
Things You’ll Need:
- A container, basin, sink, or tub
- Lukewarm water
- Liquid laundry detergent
- An absorbent towel
- A pair of shorts
How to Wash Shorts by Hand Steps:
- Fill a container with cool to lukewarm water.
- Add liquid laundry detergent. Make sure the detergent you choose to use is appropriate for the fabric and color of your shorts.
- Submerge the shorts in the water and leave to soak for 5 to 10 minutes depending on how thick or dirty the shorts are.
- Use your hands to agitate the shorts in the water. Wash the shorts with your hands until you feel they have been adequately cleansed.
- Rinse the shorts under cold water until all the soap has been completely rinsed out and the water runs clear.
- Wring the shorts out or roll them in an absorbent towel to remove excess water.
- Hang or lay flat to air dry, or use the dryer on the air dry or tumble dry low settings.
How to Wash Shorts FAQ
How often should you wash shorts?
This depends on how often you wear them and also what they are being used for. If you are wearing your shorts to the gym during cardio day, then you should wash them after every use. If you are just going out for a quick lunch in the shorts, wash them when dirty or after you have worn them a handful of times.
Do you wash shorts inside out?
Wash shorts inside out to expose the dirtiest part of the garment to the washing detergent, as well as to protect the outer surface of the shorts.
How do you clean dirty shorts?
Clean dirty shorts by either machine or hand washing them. Washing shorts in the washing machine is the most effective way to wash them and is done by turning them inside out, placing them into the washing machine with the appropriate laundry detergent, and washing on delicate with cold water.
Written and reviewed by:
Tall Paul
I am 6'7 (203cm) / 235lb (106 kg) model and ex-athlete. Since I was a teen I had trouble finding clothes. I was too tall for off the rack and was too lean for Big & Tall.
How to Wash Basketball Jerseys, Shorts, Shoes & More
Basketball is probably one of the most popular sports in the country. A great form of exercise, it not only burns a buttload of calories but improves our coordination and motor skills as well! Health-wise, the sport also builds bone strength and promotes cardiovascular health.
If you’ve ever watched the NBA then you’ve probably noticed how most if not all of the players are drenched by sweat by the end of a game.
Heck, sometimes even by halftime! It’s not too surprising though when you consider just how physically draining basketball is. Surely, anyone would work up a sweat after sprinting up and down a court for nearly an hour in total?
As it is, too much sweat can lead to a bit of an odor problem. Interestingly enough, however, it’s not the actual sweat that smells—it’s the bacteria that breaks them down into acids that are responsible. Considering this, it’s crucial that you wash your basketball gear on a regular basis. Not just for the odor issue, but for your general health as well. After all, too much bacteria in one place can lead to infections and disease.
When it comes to washing basketball gear, you have to be a little careful. The last thing that you’d want is to ruin your expensive jersey in the wash! Not sure how to go about cleaning your gear? Don’t worry—we’ll be going over some of the best ways to clean them on this page.
What’s the Best Way to Clean a Basketball Jersey?
Basketball players typically wear jerseys during matches.
Often vibrant in color, they allow everyone to easily tell the teams apart. As far as what they’re made out of, they’re usually constructed out of polyester. A type of breathable material, it keeps the players cool throughout the game.
Putting Your Basketball Jersey in the Washing Machine
The easiest way to clean your jersey is to put them in the washing machine. First things first, though, you’ll want to turn it inside out—this will prevent any embroidery or stitching from coming off. As an extra precaution, you can put the jersey inside a laundry bag. While you can wash them with other clothes, it’s important that you put them together with like colors, otherwise, it can lead to bleeding.
Note: Avoid using fabric softener on your basketball jersey as it can impact the material’s ability to get rid of moisture such as sweat.
Once you’ve put the jersey into the machine, set it to a delicate or gentle cycle. Make sure that you’re washing it with cold water.
Hot water tends to shrink and damage synthetic materials. When the cycle is done, take it out and allow it to air dry. It’s important that you do not put it in the dryer.
Hand Washing Your Basketball Jersey
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that you can also hand wash your basketball jersey. As a matter of fact, it’s probably the simplest way to get rid of dirt and stains. Depending on how dirty it is, you might want to pre-soak it in a bit of cleaning solution.
The first step is then, to make a cleaning solution. You can do so by adding a small amount of ACTIVE detergent to a container of lukewarm water. Mix the solution by swirling your hand in the water. When you’re sure that it’s mixed thoroughly, put your basketball jersey in. Remember, you want to submerge the whole thing in the solution. If you want to pre-soak it, leave it in for at least 15 minutes. Otherwise, you can skip to the next step.
Gently rub the jersey with your fingers. If there are obvious stains, you might want to add a bit of extra ACTIVE detergent to the area.
Once you’re done, rinse off the soapy water under the tap. You want to make sure that the water that comes out is clear before you turn the tap off.
To dry the jersey, hang it up in a well-ventilated area. If you want, you can use a towel to get rid of some of the excess water.
Pro-tip: Did you know that you can prevent your jersey from getting stinky? Instead of throwing it in your bag after taking it off, let it air out—even five minutes will help. This will help to minimize the odor.
Getting Rid of Stubborn Stains
Pre-soaking often takes care of stains. For the more stubborn ones, however, you might need to use a stain remover.
Pro-tip: Never use hot water for stains as it will make them harder to remove!
Washing Machine Instructions for Basketball Socks
Basketball socks are just as important as the shoes themselves. A must-have item, they protect a player’s feet from fatigue and blisters.
Generally speaking, most are made out of cotton, with a little bit of spandex and nylon mixed in between.
Throwing Your Socks In the Washer
Similar to jerseys, socks can be thrown in the wash. For the best results, turn them inside out—this will prevent lint from sticking to the surface; it also slows down the wear of the fabric. Put them into the machine and select a gentle cycle. Add some ACTIVE detergent, which will help to get rid of stains and odor.
Note: As a general rule, socks should be washed with cold water. However, hot water is more effective at getting rid of fungus and grease.
When the cycle is finished, remove the socks from the machine. Pair them up and allow them to air dry. Do not put them in the dryer unless you want them to shrink a size or two!
Can You Hand Wash Basketball Socks?
Yes you can. If you’re short on time, it might actually be the better option. In a sink or a tub, mix a little bit of soap with water.
Place your basketball socks into the solution, ensuring that the whole thing is wet and saturated. After letting it soak for a few minutes, lightly rub it together to get rid of dirt and debris. You might have to add a bit of ACTIVE detergent if there is a stain.
Pro-tip: Avoid wringing the socks too much as that can damage the elastic at the top.
How to Clean and Deodorize Basketball Compression Gear
Many basketball players choose to wear compression gear underneath their jerseys. In addition to increasing blood flow (aka more oxygen to the muscles), these garments are designed to compress the muscles, which effectively reduces lactic acid build up.
Given that they’re worn on the bottom, though, they tend to get quite smelly—perhaps even more so than the jersey. After all, it’s the layer that’s touching your skin.
Is it Safe to Machine Wash Compression Gear?
Compression gear is usually made out of moisture-wicking material such as polyester.
Considering that, the answer is yes—you can put them in the washing machine. As a matter of fact, that’s the ideal way to wash them.
Place them into the machine and select a gentle cycle. Pour some ACTIVE detergent into the water. Ideally, you will want to wash them with cold water, however, you can also use warm water. Do not use a fabric softener as that will limit the effectiveness of the material’s moisture-wicking properties. Avoid using bleach as that can lead to staining.
Note: Given that compression gear is often dark-colored, you want to only wash it with other dark-colored clothing. Otherwise, the dark colors to bleed to your other clothes.
Should I Hand Wash Them Instead?
There’s nothing wrong with putting your compression gear in the wash. If you want, though, you can always wash them manually by hand. All you have to do is mix together a container of soapy water. From there, dunk your clothing into the solution and let it soak for a bit.
After a while, you can rub and wash it to get rid of the dirt and odor. As always, you’ll want to allow the compression layers to air dry.
The Proper Way to Clean Your Basketball Shoes
Basketball shoes can attract a considerable amount of dirt—this is especially true if they’re worn outside. Luckily, it doesn’t take much effort to give them a clean.
Cleaning Basketball Shoes with a Soft Brush
To clean the sole, you’ll want to use a soft-bristled brush (something like a toothbrush works well). On the side, mix a cleaning solution with water and a half scoop of ACTIVE detergent. Dip the brush into the solution and use it to remove excess dirt from the sole. After rinsing it with clean water, you can use the brush to clean the upper portion of the shoe. You’ll want to wash the shoelaces separately.
When you’re done, dry it with a towel and allow it to air dry. Never put it in the dryer.
Pro-tip: It’s important to store your basketball shoes properly when you’re not wearing them.
Ultimately, what this means, is that you should store them in an area with plenty of airflow. This will prevent the buildup of odor.
Pro-tip 2: You should only wear your basketball shoes indoors. Wearing them outside will lead them to deteriorate faster as you’re exposing them to the elements. Less wear and tear is always a good thing, especially if the shoes are expensive to begin with!
Getting Rid of that Icky Odor
It’s no surprise that basketball shoes can get stinky. Even if you store them properly, it’s not uncommon for them to develop an unpleasant odor after a while. Unfortunately, soapy water will not do you any good in this situation. For something like this, you will want to use a deodorizing spray. Not only will that get rid of that foot stink, but most will also kill off the bacteria in your shoes—it’s a win-win situation!
Alternatively, you can sprinkle some baking soda (around half a teaspoon) into each shoe and allow it to sit overnight.
The next morning, remove the powder. If the odor is still there, you can repeat the above steps.
How does it work? As it is, baking soda will get rid of the odor and absorb any excess moisture, the latter of which facilitates bacteria growth. It’s also economical as most of us already have baking soda in the house!
How to choose a basketball uniform?
Basketball is a team game. Each participant must have a full set of equipment: shorts, T-shirt, sneakers and protective paraphernalia.
Requirements for sportswear:
- Sewing using special technologies. Equipment should not fit tightly on the body. Loose fit for comfort and freedom of movement. Each product must have strong, flat, carefully closed seams with which the athlete will avoid irritation.
- Use of breathable synthetic materials. With intense loads, the basketball uniform absorbs and evaporates moisture well, and opens the air to the body. Proper thermoregulation will help the basketball player maintain strength until the end of the game, which will affect the results.
Elastic fabric will prevent tears during sudden jumps and movements. - Compliance with player requirements and FIBA rules. Basketball clothing must have a dominant color that helps to easily distinguish between participants. It is important to choose the right combinations, apply logos, team name and surnames.
Shoes are chosen based on the type of playing surface - an open-air playground or a hall. High-quality shoes are comfortable and increase the performance of the game.
The adult set consists of a T-shirt and shorts.
Characteristics of sportswear:
- T-shirt is bought exactly in size. A product with a perfect fit will not cause discomfort. Wear-resistant synthetics will cope with profuse sweating. Single and double sided models are allowed. If sleeves are present, they must be above the elbow. For training in the cold season, take a T-shirt with long sleeves. On the game, models with such a cut are not used.
- Buy shorts one size up.
This will give you freedom of movement. The elastic band is fixed under the parameters of the waist. The length should be above the knee. Tight overalls are also allowed. - Special basketball equipment is allowed: knee pads, ankles, arch supports, protection of the thigh, shoulder, shoulder joint. The player can wear compression stockings and sleeves, use a transparent mouthguard, headbands, wristbands.
- Socks are chosen so that they are visible from the sneakers.
The player may need outerwear. It is sewn from artificial materials for natural air exchange.
What to look for when choosing a basketball uniform
Proper equipment affects the success of the game. The main requirements for the form are imposed by the FIBA and NBA committees.
What to look for:
- Comfortable training/playing basketball uniform that doesn't hug the body and doesn't restrict movement. Shorts and T-shirts made of soft synthetics are considered the best.
Modern fabrics are light, instantly remove moisture, which accumulates a lot during the game. - Comfort is enhanced by closed, durable and extremely flat seams that do not rub against the skin during sports activities.
- A constant and systematic supply of air to the skin is a prerequisite for high physical exertion. The shape with high breathability will give better thermoregulation. The body will not overheat or overcool. The athlete will retain strength and show high endurance on the court, which will improve overall training and game progress.
- Teams are presented with the same design of equipment. Rigorous design is required to compete. T-shirts, shorts, socks must be of the same dominant color on both sides. Numbers are applied front and back. Hue should contrast with the main one. Protective and additional equipment for basketball is matched in one solid color.
A team must have at least 2 sets of jerseys.
How to choose basketball shoes
Shoes for the game must meet strict standards.
The right sneakers securely fix the ankle, dampen the impact force in jumps and reduce the risk of injury. The player feels stable in any physical activity and quickly picks up a high starting speed.
Requirements for basketball shoes:
- Maximum comfort and high stability.
- Good grip on all types of surfaces. Outdoor asphalt courts require a tough, indelible rubber outsole. For parquet - softer, shock-absorbing from synthetic materials, with balloon, spring inserts.
- Good cushioning, shock absorption.
- Ankle and foot support. Fasteners are zippers, Velcro, laces and combinations thereof.
- Wear resistance, strength and quality.
- Sneakers can be in different color combinations. Reflective inserts, decor and flashing lights are prohibited. The best material is a combination of leather and synthetics.
Manufacturers produce 3 types of basketball shoes. The choice should be based on the game specialization of the player.
High
Sneakers with a high last are designed for heavy, powerful forwards, center forwards - the largest, tallest members of the team. The footwear is steady, is characterized by the maximum depreciation when performing jumps. This is achieved through a full closure, better hold and a high sole. Models of the High type hold down the step and reduce the speed due to the large weight.
Mid
A solution for versatile players - shooting guards, snipers and small forwards. Shoes with a lower sole increase mobility on the court. It is light and comfortable, but less securely fixes the foot.
Low
Shoes for basketball players with high agility, players who often change direction during the game, moving in jerks, with sudden stops. Low is chosen by point guards and shooting guards. The lightest shoes are as mobile as possible, practical and do not constrain movements. It poorly fixes the ankle and wears out faster.
Basketball equipment maintenance
Keeping the uniform clean is not only a neat appearance, but also an efficiency during a match or training. Perfect equipment will help you better control maneuvers and movements on the court.
Care rules:
- Hand wash at 40°C and below. It is recommended to use gentle mode for automatic washing.
- Use mild detergents. Do not use bleach, scented laundry detergents, fabric softeners, alcohol. It is better to take a neutral eco-friendly washing powder.
- Without intensive wringing, twisting. It is better to choose a gentle rinse and drain.
- No strong effect on inscriptions, logos.
- Iron inside out or through the lining material.
- Drying on the battery is prohibited. This will lead to deformation of the characters, seams and product.
Sneakers are washed after 1-2 workouts. Dry shoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Leather models can be treated with a small amount of leather shoe care.
How to choose the right basketball shorts?
Basketball is an active and exciting game. It is played not only by professionals, but also by amateur teams in the yards, in schools in physical education classes, in sports sections. How comfortable and safe the game will be for each participant depends on the quality of the form. Last but not least is the choice of basketball shorts. This piece of equipment should be comfortable, not restricting movement, but also recognizable. Let's figure out what to look for when buying shorts.
Mold key features
Basketball shorts are made from soft synthetic fabrics. They are elastic, durable, resistant to repeated washings.
Special synthetics pass air and water vapor well, providing natural ventilation and maintaining the athlete's body temperature at a comfortable level.
Shorts must reach the knee or be slightly longer. These pants do not ride up while running and jumping and protect the athlete's legs from abrasions during a fall. Shorts below the knee have a more aesthetic appearance than short models.
Basketball uniform is 1 size larger than casual wear. It should fit freely to the body without constriction and restriction of movement. In a spacious form, it is more convenient to drive the ball through the legs, to lunge and jerk. To keep the shorts from falling off, a wide elastic band is inserted into the waistband.
New uniforms must be tried on before the start of the match. Shorts must be loose around the entire perimeter. It is important that they do not ride up during active running, do not rub at the seams and do not slip.
Put on your uniform and do a few game maneuvers, or better, do a workout to evaluate the fit of the clothes.
Basketball models are the only ones without special lining. To protect muscles from hypothermia, professional athletes use elastic underpants. They fit snugly to the body, have almost no seams and do not rub, unlike the lining. Special underwear removes moisture from the skin and retains muscle warmth.
Fabrics for basketball shorts
Special sports fabric FALSE NET has a fine mesh structure. The cells are oval, made with a protective weave. A distinctive feature of the fabric is its ability to transmit moisture and air vapor, so the mesh is used as ventilation inserts in the side seams of shorts. The material is soft, very elastic, durable, resistant to wear. Machine washable.
Fine mesh fabric, round mesh.
