At Northstars Football, we believe in athlete-first development. Our players are driven to improve all year long, so we support that commitment with flexible equipment policies, clear cleaning guidelines, and our own Northstars Winter Football Camps.
Whether you’re preparing gear for return, keeping equipment for winter training, or just maintaining your player’s setup for long-term use, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Keeping Equipment for Winter Camps
You can keep certain pieces of club equipment for winter camps, as long as the steps below are followed.
Mandatory Returns
Game jersey (must be returned)
Game pants (must be returned)
Items You May Keep
Helmet
Shoulder pads
Equipment bag
Practice jersey
Personal items such as girdles, gloves, mouthguards, socks, sleeves, knee pads, etc.
Final Return Deadline
A final hard date for all equipment returns will be announced (anticipated February/March for an April deadline).
Clean gear lasts longer, performs better, and helps keep your athlete healthy. Football equipment collects sweat, bacteria, mould, and odour throughout the season. Regular cleaning keeps it safe, comfortable, and ready for the next rep — whether that’s at practice, game day, or winter camp.
Quick-reference Northstars Cleaning Instructions (save or screenshot for later).
Full Cleaning Instructions
Helmet Cleaning
Do not use commercial or abrasive cleaners, or scouring pads.
Use a microfiber or soft cloth to wipe away dirt and debris.
For deeper cleaning, use gentle dish soap and warm water on the cloth.
Do not submerge the helmet in water.
Air dry only in a cool, ventilated space. Avoid dark, warm, or damp places that encourage mould.
If you’re unsure, ask your coach or the equipment manager.
Shoulder Pads
After each use, let pads air dry completely to prevent odour and bacteria growth.
Wipe using a damp cloth and gentle dish soap for stubborn spots.
You may use a plastic-safe disinfectant in moderation.
Always air dry fully in a ventilated area — no direct heat sources.
Practice & Game Jerseys
Follow the care label whenever possible.
If the label is missing, wash with like colours in cold water.
Do not bleach.
Tumble dry low or air dry.
For game jerseys, wash inside out on low temperature and air dry inside out when possible.
Integrated Pants
Machine wash in cold water.
Tumble dry low or air dry for best results.
Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean.
When putting on, pull from around the knee/thigh pad areas rather than just the waistband to help them sit correctly and avoid damage.
Mouthguards
Avoid hot water — it can warp the mouthguard.
Rinse with cool water after each use.
Brush with toothpaste regularly to reduce bacteria.
Once a week, you can briefly soak it in mouthwash, then rinse with water.
If your athlete has been sick, clean thoroughly before next use.
Cleats
Knock cleats together to remove mud and turf beads.
Use a cloth or old toothbrush to scrub remaining dirt around the studs.
Wash with warm water and gentle soap if needed.
Air dry completely; never use a dryer or direct heat.
You can wash some insoles and laces in a pillowcase on a delicate cycle, then air dry.
Equipment Bags
Empty the bag completely after games and practices.
Vacuum out turf beads, grass, and loose dirt.
Wipe inside and outside with warm soapy water or a fabric-safe disinfectant.
If machine-washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water and hang to dry.
Leave the bag unzipped in a ventilated area so it can fully air out between uses.
Professional Cleaning Options (Edmonton Area)
If you prefer not to handle equipment cleaning at home, there are local services that can clean and sanitize football gear. These are non-referral options for families to review and choose what works best for them:
Cloak & Shield Sports Equipment Cleaners Professional cleaning and sanitizing for football and hockey equipment. Phone: 780-940-4948 Website: cloakandshield.ca
Sin Bin Sports (Sherwood Park) Offers equipment cleaning services. Families can contact them directly for current pricing and details.
We encourage families to compare pricing, turnaround time, and services offered to decide which option, if any, is the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my player keep a helmet or shoulder pads for winter?
Yes. As long as game jersey and game pants are returned, payment information is up to date, and you email the equipment manager to log the items, players can keep certain gear for winter camps and off-season training.
Do personal items need to be returned?
No. Personal items such as girdles, mouthguards, gloves, socks, sleeves, and knee pads stay with you.
When is the final equipment return deadline?
A hard deadline will be communicated by the club (anticipated February/March for an April return). All club-owned equipment must be returned by this date unless other arrangements have been approved.
