Instructions for safe machine wash of wool and authentic stitched team jerseys: turn inside out, use mesh bag, cold gentle cycle, air dry only.

How to wash!

Modern & Stitched Jerseys (Good Condition)

Modern Nike/Fanatics jerseys and fully stitched vintage pieces in solid shape can be safely machine-washed using strict delicate controls.

  • Preparation: Always turn the jersey inside out to protect raised graphics. Place it inside a breathable mesh laundry bag to prevent snags.

  • Washing: Select the Delicate, Wool, or Hand Wash cycle on your machine using Cold Water (20°C max). Use a mild liquid detergent free of harsh optical brighteners or bleach.

  • Drying: Air dry only. Hang on a plastic hanger or lay flat on a clean towel. Never use a heated dryer, as heat breaks down heat-press adhesives instantly.

A sign instructing to hand wash only printed patches and vintage sports jerseys. It shows a jersey with 'KOBE 8' on it and a hand washing a jersey in a basin of water. The sign indicates no machine wash, use strictly cold water, gently pat dry, and store folded.

Vintage, Fragile & Printed-Patch Pieces (Worn Condition)

For older jerseys (Champion, Reebok, Nike 90’s/00’s), printed twill patches, or items showing cracking, dry rot, or peeling, never use a washing machine.

  • The Sink Soak Method: Fill a clean basin or sink with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of mild detergent or gentle wool wash. Submerge the jersey and gently swish the water around by hand.

  • Rinsing & Stain Spotting: Gently squeeze the soapy water through the fabric—never wring, twist, or scrub the graphics. For tough odors, soak in cold water mixed with 1/2 cup of white vinegar for 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cold water.

  • Drying: Lay the jersey flat on a dry towel, roll the towel up gently like a sleeping bag to absorb extra moisture, then lay it flat on a fresh dry towel to finish air drying.

A guide with three rules about fabric care. Rule 1: No heat, with images of jerseys with torn numbers and a heat icon. Rule 2: Skip fabric softener, showing open wicking fibers and a clogged fabric softener residue. Rule 3: Store properly, with images of vintage cracked sports jerseys folded flat and pristine pieces hung on padded hangers.

Three Universal Rules for All Jerseys!

Rule 1:

No Heat, Ever: Keep jerseys away from heated dryers, clothing irons, and hot water. Heat breaks down both screen-print inks and heat-pressed adhesives

Rule 2:

Skip Fabric Softener: Softeners coat moisture-wicking synthetic fibers, trapping body oils and odorous bacteria inside the fabric over time.

Rule 3:

Store Properly: Store pristine pieces on padded hangers. For fragile or heavily cracked vintage pieces, fold them flat and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.