How to Wash NBA Jerseys (Without Fading or Shrinking)

Jerseys live a tough life—sweat, sunscreen, tailgate spills. The fabric can handle it if you give it a fair shot. Here’s a simple routine that protects color, graphics, and the shape you paid for.

TL;DR Care Rules

Turn inside-out, wash cold, gentle cycle
Use mild detergent—no bleach or fabric softener
Air-dry flat or on a wide hanger; skip high heat
Spot-clean stains before the main wash

Step-by-Step Wash Guide

Check labels and turn the jersey inside-out to protect graphics and stitched twill.
Pre-treat stains (sweat salts, grass, food) with a gentle, color-safe solution. Blot, don’t scrub.
Place in a mesh bag to prevent snags, then run a cold, gentle cycle.
Skip softeners—they haze prints and weaken adhesives over time.
Air-dry. Heat warps plastics and can shrink trims; patience wins here.

Fabric Notes: Swingman vs Authentic vs Throwback

Swingman (lighter mesh) forgives frequent washes but hates heat. Authentic builds are heavier with stitched twill; treat them like a favorite knit—lower friction and low heat only. Throwbacks deserve the most care: bag them, avoid rough loads, and never tumble on high. Restoring an older piece? Test cleaners on a hidden area first.

Stain & Odor Troubleshooting

Sweat and deodorant marks respond to cold soaks with a teaspoon of mild detergent. Grass stains lift with an enzyme cleaner; dab, wait, rinse. Food grease prefers dish-soap spot work before the wash. Persistent odors? Air-dry fully between wears; trapped moisture is the real villain.

Storage Tips

Avoid thin hangers that crease shoulders and direct sunlight that fades color. For collectibles, use acid-free tissue and store flat. Displaying your jersey? Rotate occasionally—UV adds up, even through windows.

Need fit help? See the Size & Fit guide. Buying Lakers gear? Start with Lakers Purple Jerseys and the Lakers Authentic vs Replica guide.