Stopping your Vintage Football Shirts from Peeling

Football shirts are more than just sportswear; they’re a statement of pride, a nod to history, and a way to show unwavering support for your favourite team. However, they require proper care to ensure they remain in the best condition. One common issue football fans face is the peeling of numbers and letters on their most valued shirts. If you've ever noticed the decals on your shirt starting to peel, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. With the right approach, you can keep your vintage football shirts looking as good as new for years to come.

At That Vintage Football Shirt, we specialise in vintage football shirts, offering a carefully selected range of classic kits from different eras. Whether you're a collector or just love retro style, we provide authentic, high-quality shirts that celebrate football history. Take a look at our expert advice on caring for both modern and vintage shirts…

How Football Shirts are Made

Before getting into the methods of repair and maintenance, it's important to understand how football shirts are actually made. Modern football shirts are mainly made from polyester, which is a durable and lightweight fabric ideal for sportswear. The team badge is typically sewn on, while the numbers and letters are either printed, glued, or applied using heat transfer techniques. These areas are often the first to show signs of wear, as the adhesive or heat transfer process can weaken over time, especially with frequent washing or wear.

In comparison to this, vintage football shirts were often crafted from high-quality cotton, with the decals embroidered directly onto the fabric. This makes them more durable, but also requires more careful maintenance to preserve their quality and appearance.

Repairing Peeling Numbers & Letters

If you’ve noticed the numbers or letters on your football shirt starting to peel, you don’t need to panic. A simple repair can often restore them to their former glory. The first step is to carefully apply fabric glue to the underside of the peeling decal. Once the glue is in place, cover the area with a clean towel and gently press down with an iron set to low heat, making sure you avoid using any steam.

To avoid any additional damage, use a neutral-coloured fabric to protect the shirt, instead of plain white paper or cardboard. Hold the iron over the affected area for about 30 seconds, then lay the shirt flat and allow it to dry for 24 hours. If necessary, repeat the process until the decal is fully reattached.

For printed symbols, repairs can be trickier, so proper washing techniques are crucial to keeping these decals intact.

Washing Football Shirts

The way you wash your football shirts can significantly impact how long they last. Always separate your kits by colour to prevent any dye transfer, as bright football shirts can easily bleed onto lighter fabrics. Washing in cold water is also recommended, as hot water can weaken the fabric glue or cause the print to fade.

Another tip is to always turn your shirt inside out before washing. This reduces the risk of the print snagging on other clothes and minimises direct friction during the wash. Once clean, avoid the temptation to tumble dry or place your shirt on a radiator, as the heat can cause shrinking and damage. Instead, hang your shirt on a rack to air dry, which will preserve its shape and quality.

When it comes to ironing, do so with caution! Turn the shirt inside out and use a low heat setting, avoiding any embroidered areas to prevent them from unravelling.

Caring for Vintage Football Shirts from TVFS

At That Vintage Football Shirt, we understand the sentimental value of vintage football shirts. As such, they deserve extra care. High-quality cotton shirts, with their premium feel, can last a lifetime if properly maintained. Regular, gentle washing and careful storage will ensure that your vintage collection remains in pristine condition. Explore our collection of authentic vintage football shirts to find your next addition.