Cheer Uniform Care Guide: Washing and Storage

Rhinestone and sublimated cheer uniforms are an investment. A few simple habits make a real difference in how long the fabric, print and stones hold up.

Turn the uniform inside out to protect rhinestones, screen print and embroidery from friction. Brush off loose dirt or debris first. If it’s brand new, wash it once on its own before the first real wear to help set the colors.

Hand washing is the safest option, especially for uniforms with heavy rhinestone coverage. If you’d rather use a machine, place the uniform in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle or delicate cycle. Either method works, hand washing is simply the lower-risk choice for the most heavily decorated pieces.

Always use cold water, warm or hot water causes colors to bleed, fade or shrink the fabric. Use a mild detergent made for delicates or athletic wear, and skip bleach entirely. Never use fabric softener. It loosens rhinestones and heat-set decorations and breaks down the stretch in spandex over time.

Air dry, laid flat or hung, out of direct sunlight and away from heat. Don’t wring or twist the fabric to remove water. Machine drying is best avoided. If you must, use the lowest heat setting only. Never iron directly on rhinestones or printed panels.

Blot stains rather than rubbing them. For general stains, a paste of dish soap, baking soda and water works well left on for a few minutes before washing. For makeup or lipstick, rubbing alcohol or makeup remover on a cloth lifts most of it. For blood, cold water with a little saltwater or ammonia solution before washing normally. Pre-treat any stain before it goes through a full wash cycle.