Football Shirt Care Guide

At Football Threads 23, we know how important it is to keep your shirts in the best possible condition — whether you're a collector or a fan who loves to wear them. Follow these guidelines to protect your investment.

General Care Instructions

These tips apply to all football shirts in our range:

• Wash inside out in cold water (30°C or below) on a gentle cycle
• Air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
• Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners that can damage prints and fabrics
• Do not tumble dry — heat can shrink fabric and crack prints
• Iron on low heat inside out, avoiding any printed badges or crests
• Store flat or hang with care — avoid folding along print lines

Vintage Shirts (Pre-2000)

Vintage shirts require extra care due to their age and the materials used at the time:

• Hand wash where possible in cold water with a mild detergent
• Avoid wringing — gently press out excess water and lay flat to dry
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light to prevent yellowing
• For display, consider a UV-protective frame or garment bag
• Avoid hanging for long periods as this can stretch older fabrics

Polyester Shirts (Most Modern Shirts)

The majority of football shirts from the 1990s onwards are made from polyester:

• Machine wash at 30°C on a gentle/delicate cycle
• Turn inside out to protect the outer surface and any printed numbers or names
• Do not use fabric softener — it can break down the moisture-wicking properties
• Air dry flat or on a hanger away from direct heat

Cotton Shirts (Older Vintage)

Many shirts from the 1970s–1980s are made from cotton or cotton blends:

• Wash at 30°C or below to prevent shrinkage
• Reshape while damp and dry flat
• Iron on a medium setting while slightly damp for best results
• Store folded flat rather than hanging to maintain shape

Shirts with Embroidered Badges or Patches

• Always wash inside out to protect embroidery
• Avoid scrubbing embroidered areas directly
• Do not iron directly over embroidered badges — use a pressing cloth

Removing Stains

• Treat stains as soon as possible — the longer they sit, the harder they are to remove
• Use a gentle stain remover and test on an inconspicuous area first
• Avoid rubbing — dab gently to lift the stain
• For vintage shirts, consult a specialist dry cleaner if unsure

Long-Term Storage

• Clean shirts before storing — dirt and oils can cause long-term damage
• Store in a breathable garment bag, not plastic, to prevent moisture build-up
• Keep in a cool, dry, dark environment
• For valuable or rare shirts, consider acid-free tissue paper to prevent creasing

If you have any questions about caring for a specific shirt, feel free to contact us — we're always happy to help fellow collectors.