NFL jerseys are more than just game-day apparel—they’re investments and symbols of team loyalty. Whether it’s a limited-edition jersey, a signed collector’s item, or your go-to for every Sunday, proper care is essential to maintain its color, shape, and overall condition. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for cleaning, storing, and preserving your NFL jersey to keep it looking brand new.
1. Read the Care Label First
Before doing anything, check the care tag inside your jersey. Manufacturers like Nike, Fanatics, or Mitchell & Ness may use different materials or stitching methods, and following the label’s instructions is crucial for long-term care. Skipping this step could result in shrinkage, color fading, or damage to numbers and logos.
2. Turn the Jersey Inside Out Before Washing
Always turn your NFL jersey inside out before placing it in the washing machine. This helps protect the outer graphics, heat-pressed numbers, and embroidery from friction and fading. Washing inside out minimizes the risk of cracking or peeling over time.
3. Wash in Cold Water on a Gentle Cycle
Cold water is your jersey’s best friend. It preserves color and prevents any glue-based patches from loosening. Use a gentle cycle to reduce the impact of agitation, especially on stitched or screen-printed areas. Avoid washing your jersey with rough materials like jeans or towels, which can cause abrasion.
4. Use Mild Detergents (No Bleach or Fabric Softener)
Stick to mild, bleach-free detergents. Harsh chemicals or fabric softeners can deteriorate fabric integrity and damage patches, names, and numbers. A small amount of gentle detergent is all you need to get the job done right.
5. Never Use a Dryer — Air Dry Only
Heat is one of the biggest threats to your NFL jersey. Never put it in the dryer. Instead, hang it on a hanger or lay it flat to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade. Air drying helps preserve the shape and longevity of the fabric and stitching.
6. Ironing? Only with Caution
If your jersey is wrinkled, avoid direct ironing over the graphics or patches. If absolutely necessary, place a cloth over the area and use a cool iron setting. Direct heat can melt logos and ruin the overall finish of the jersey.
7. Store It Properly
When not in use, store your jersey in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers to maintain its shape, or fold it neatly and place it in a breathable garment bag if it’s part of your collection. Avoid storing it in plastic containers or in damp environments, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.
Conclusion
Taking good care of your NFL jersey ensures it stays in top condition, whether you wear it every Sunday or showcase it in your sports memorabilia collection. By following simple washing techniques, using gentle products, and storing it correctly, your jersey will stay pristine for many seasons to come. After all, a well-kept jersey is more than apparel—it’s a badge of fandom, worthy of proper care.