Golf clothing works hard: sweat, sunscreen, grass, mud and rain all take their toll. Performance fabrics and waterproofs also need particular care to keep wicking and repelling water. Look after them properly and your golf clothes will last longer and perform better. Here's how.
Performance fabrics
- Wash inside out on a cool or gentle cycle.
- Use a mild detergent; avoid bleach.
- Skip fabric softener, which clogs fibres and reduces wicking.
- Wash soon after rounds, before sweat odour sets in.
- Air dry or use low heat.
Cotton and knitwear
- Cotton polos: wash at moderate temperatures; may shrink in hot dryers.
- Wool jumpers: hand wash or use a wool cycle; dry flat.
- Merino: gentle washing, dry flat, no softener.
Removing common stains
| Stain | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Grass | Pre-treat with stain remover or a little detergent, then wash cool |
| Mud | Let it dry, brush off, then wash |
| Sunscreen | Treat with washing-up liquid or stain remover before washing |
| Sweat marks | Soak in cool water with detergent before washing |
| Coffee or drinks | Rinse in cold water quickly, then pre-treat |
Waterproofs
Waterproof jackets and trousers need special care:
- Wash with a technical cleaner, not normal detergent, which can harm the membrane.
- Reproof when water stops beading on the surface, using a wash-in or spray-on treatment.
- Tumble dry on low if the care label allows; gentle heat can reactivate the water-repellent finish.
- Check seams for wear.
Read golf rain gear guide.
Hats and gloves
- Caps: hand wash, then dry on a ball or cap shaper. Read golf hats and caps.
- Leather gloves: let them air dry away from direct heat, then reshape. Rotate gloves so each dries properly. Read golf gloves guide.
Shoes
- Brush off mud and grass after each round.
- Wipe uppers with a damp cloth.
- Dry naturally with paper or shoe trees inside; avoid radiators.
- Replace spikes when worn.
- Treat leather with a suitable conditioner.
Read golf shoes guide.
Storage
- Clean before storing.
- Store dry, away from damp, to prevent mildew.
- Hang waterproofs rather than folding tightly.
- Use breathable bags for seasonal storage.
Caring for your golf bag contents
Wet towels, gloves and waterproofs left in a closed bag lead to mildew and smells. Empty the bag after rainy rounds and let everything dry. Read how to clean and care for golf clubs.
Making clothes last longer
- Rotate clothing to reduce wear.
- Repair small tears early.
- Follow care labels.
Read golf clothing on a budget.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my golf shirts smell even after washing?
Body oils and bacteria build up in synthetic fabrics. Wash promptly, use a sports detergent and avoid fabric softener.
How often should I reproof my waterproof jacket?
When water stops beading on the surface, often once or twice a season for regular golfers.
Can I put golf shoes in the washing machine?
Generally not. Clean them by hand.
The bottom line
Wash performance fabrics gently without softener, treat stains quickly, reproof waterproofs and dry everything naturally. A little care keeps golf clothing comfortable, effective and looking good for many seasons. For building a wardrobe, read men's golf clothing guide.