LYSOL Celebrates Sports Referees with a Unique Laundry Sanitizer Initiative

The often-overlooked role of referees and umpires in sports takes center stage as LYSOL® embarks on an exciting initiative. In collaboration with baseball legend Alex Rodriguez, LYSOL is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the vital contributions of these unsung heroes on the field.

Championing Referees Everywhere

For the second consecutive year, LYSOL has partnered with Rodriguez to bring attention to the challenging yet essential role of referees, especially during intense sports seasons. Their initiative, titled "An Ode-r to Refs", aims to not only salute these vital figures in sports but also to tackle the unpleasant odors that are often left behind after games. Through this campaign, LYSOL introduces its Laundry Sanitizer, designed specifically to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria responsible for unpleasant smells in sports uniforms.

Rodriguez, who is no stranger to the pressure and heat that referees face, emphasizes the countless hours officials dedicate not just during the games, but also in preparation and travel between events. He stated, “Referees and umpires are an irreplaceable part of baseball, and their role extends way beyond the nine innings of a game.” Public acknowledgment of their hard work is crucial, and this campaign is one way to express gratitude.

The Science Behind the Smell

Sports officials, often running up to seven miles during a match, are acutely aware of the sweat that accumulates directly onto their uniforms. After a game, these garments can carry significant amounts of odor-causing bacteria that lead to unpleasant laundry experiences. Understanding this, LYSOL showcases how their Laundry Sanitizer not only eliminates odors but also sanitizes clothing with its unique formula. As stated by Callum Couser, RD Operations Manager North America at Reckitt Hygiene, “Sweating is inevitable for both players and referees, but many do not realize that bacteria can be the source of stink in laundry.” This product offers a reliable solution, ensuring that both officials and players can enjoy fresh-smelling uniforms throughout the demanding sports season.

Engaging Communities Through Nomination

In a gesture of community appreciation, LYSOL invites players, coaches, and families to share stories of their favorite referees and umpires as part of this initiative. Participants can nominate these officials to win supplies of LYSOL Laundry Sanitizer, making the task of handling post-game stink all the more manageable. This not only incentivizes community participation but also highlights the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of sports referees.

According to the campaign, one lucky nominee will be awarded a special in-person delivery of the Laundry Sanitizer right at their next game or practice, complete with celebratory fanfare.

Where to Find More

For those interested in viewing "An Ode-r to Refs", the promotional video is available on LYSOL’s official YouTube and Instagram channels. In addition, fans can purchase LYSOL Laundry Sanitizer at leading retailers or through LYSOL's website. This initiative strikes a chord, reflecting a growing recognition of the essential roles played by sports referees and the support they need both on and off the field.

LYSOL®'s commitment to health and hygiene plays a pivotal role in the sporting community, reinforcing its dedication to provide safe and effective solutions. As the brand looks forward, it invites fans and communities alike to celebrate the referees who make sports possible, helping to break the stigma and challenge the odor that comes with sporting activities. Let’s stand together and honor these unsung heroes with the recognition they deserve!

Source: LYSOL, March 27, 2025