Here’s how to clean summer sports gear like a pro

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Summer sports season in Canada means a trunk full of gear, muddy shoes, and the sweet aroma of effort. Whether you’re chasing soccer balls, swinging clubs, or just being the designated sideline cheerleader in your camp chair, your gear sees it all—and deserves a little TLC. Let’s walk through exactly how to clean your summer sports gear properly, with the best tools and techniques to get the job done right (the first time).

Scotch-Brite Household Scrubber

You know the one: the folding chair that’s always there for you at every tournament and practice, and now looks like it’s been through a world tour. Start by letting it dry out fully if it’s damp or muddy; then flip it over and knock off any loose debris – use a stiff nylon bristle brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt on the feet and legs.

Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray Starter Kit

Next, hose the entire thing down, spraying the legs, fabric and armrests with Dawn Powerwash, let it sit for a minute or two, then scrub it in with your brush. Rinse thoroughly, then let it air dry completely in the sun before tossing it back in the trunk.

MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

Dip a Scotch-Brite scrub brush or microfiber towel into the soapy water and scrub the ball’s surface—whether it’s leather, rubber, or dimpled plastic (for softer materials use a soft towel). Once done, rinse well with warm water on a clean towel. For golf balls, you can just drop a bunch right into the bucket and agitate them with your hands. Then dry with another towel and leave the ball(s) out to air dry overnight. Fresh balls mean better performance.

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First, take your shoes outside and clap them together or bang the soles on the ground to shake out loose dirt. Next, use a dry brush (an old toothbrush works in a pinch) to clean off remaining grime, focusing on the tread and edges. Every few wears or as needed, give the shoes a deep clean. Apply Shoe MGK to a clean brush and gently scrub the uppers, midsoles, and even the laces (this is especially good for leather, suede and nubuck shoes). Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

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For leather accents or full leather bags, treat them with Renapur leather cleaner—apply with a soft cloth and buff dry. Leave the bag open to air dry completely overnight, then repack only what you need.

Grimy clubs can mess with your swing (or at least that’s the excuse you can lean heavily on!), so give them a quick cleaning session that takes less than 10 minutes. Fill a bucket with warm water and a squirt of Dawn Liquid. Dip a Scotch-Brite brush into the water and scrub the club heads, ensuring you get into the grooves. Rinse each club with clean water and dry immediately with a towel to prevent rust.

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