How To Clean Hockey Gloves? Get Rid Of The Smell And Bacteria With These Tips

Hockey gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any hockey player. They offer protection and grip, allowing players to handle the stick with precision and control on the ice. But what happens when these gloves start to get smelly or harbor bacteria? Cleaning your hockey gloves can seem daunting, but it’s a necessary task if you want to maintain your gear and play at your best.

In this article, we’ll dive into some proven tips and methods for cleaning your hockey gloves. From washing machines to using household products, we’ve got you covered. Not only will properly cleaned gloves help eliminate unpleasant odors, but they can also prevent the spread of germs from one game to another.

“Don’t let stinky gloves hold you back from playing your best game. Follow these easy steps to clean and sanitize your hockey gloves today!”

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice player, keeping your hockey gloves in top condition is key to maintaining their longevity and performance. By following our advice and incorporating a regular cleaning routine, you can enjoy fresh-smelling gloves that are free from harmful bacteria. So grab your gloves and let’s get cleaning!

Know The Material Of Your Gloves

Leather Gloves

Hockey gloves made of leather are one of the most durable and long-lasting options. However, they require special attention when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. Leather hockey gloves need to be cleaned regularly using a damp cloth. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or detergents as they might damage the surface of your gloves.

If your leather hockey gloves have an unpleasant smell, use a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe them clean. For best results, mix equal parts of white vinegar and lukewarm water in a container and dip a cloth into this solution. Wring out the excess liquid from the cloth and use it to gently rub down your gloves.

“To keep your leather hockey gloves in top condition, make sure you allow sufficient time for them to dry completely after every game.” -Hockey Monkey

Cotton Gloves

Cotton hockey gloves are comfortable to wear and easy to maintain; however, they can get quite smelly if not cleaned properly. The good news is that cotton gloves can be thrown in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

Make sure to remove any detachable parts such as straps or Velcro closures before tossing them in the wash. Once washed, hang them up to air dry to prevent any shrinkage or damage caused by heat exposure.

“Always follow the care instructions given by the manufacturer when cleaning your hockey gloves to ensure their longevity.” -Total Hockey

Synthetic Gloves

Synthetic hockey gloves are lightweight and offer great protection during gameplay. They also don’t require much maintenance; simply throw them in the washing machine with like colors using cold water and mild detergent. Make sure to remove any detachable parts before washing and hang them out to dry.

It’s important not to use fabric softeners with synthetic gloves as they can harm the protective nature of these gloves. Instead, consider using baking soda to get rid of any unpleasant odors that may have accumulated on your gloves over time.

“Using harsh chemicals or hot water can cause synthetic hockey gloves to lose their shape and effectiveness.” -Great Skate Hockey

Rubber Gloves

Hockey gloves made of rubber are a popular choice for goalies due to their ability to absorb impact and provide superior grip. To clean rubber gloves, simply wipe them down after every game using warm, soapy water.

If you notice any stubborn stains or build-up, use a mixture of white vinegar and warm water to scrub gently. Rinse off with lukewarm water and let your gloves air dry completely before storing them away in a cool place.

“Avoid using bleach or other abrasive cleaners as they can weaken the structure of rubber hockey gloves.” -Bauer Hockey

• Clean leather gloves regularly with a damp cloth and avoid using harsh detergents or chemicals.
• Wash cotton gloves on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent but remove any detachable parts before doing so.
• Synthetic gloves also require minimal maintenance but avoid using fabric softeners and wash with like colors only.
• Rubber gloves should be wiped down after every game using warm, soapy water and avoid using abrasive cleaners or bleach.

Use A Cleaning Solution

If you’re wondering how to clean hockey gloves, the first thing you need to know is that it generally takes a little more effort than cleaning other types of sports equipment. Hockey gloves get exposed to lots of sweat and bacteria, which can build up over time, making them smelly and unhygienic.

Mild Soap Solution

A mild soap solution is one of the easiest ways to clean your hockey gloves at home. Start by filling a sink or large bowl with warm water. Then add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid or any other mild soap in the water.

Dip your gloves inside the solution completely. Scrub each glove gently using a soft-bristled brush. You can use an old toothbrush or a nail brush as well. Make sure that you don’t rub the gloves too hard, especially on the delicate areas like the palms and fingers. Rinse the gloves under running water until all the soap gets rinsed off entirely, both inside and outside the gloves.

To dry them out, stuff newspaper into the gloves so that they maintain their shape while air-drying in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Vinegar Solution

An excellent option for those who want a natural remedy to keep their hockey gloves smelling fresh is to opt for vinegar solutions. Vinegar acts as a powerful disinfectant and helps eliminate odors from fabrics.

You’ll need to fill a small bucket or container with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Remember to remove all laces and inserts before immersing your gloves into this solution completely.

Gently scrub the gloves with a soft-bristled brush after letting them soak for 30 minutes. Be careful not to damage the leather material. Rinse your gloves with warm water, then squeeze out the excess moisture.

After that, put some newspaper into both gloves to absorb extra water and help maintain their shape while they dry in an airy place.

Baking Soda Solution

A baking soda solution is ideal for those who want a deeper clean for their hockey gloves. Baking soda possesses natural antibacterial properties that can eliminate stubborn odors from equipment at home.

To make this solution, you’ll need half water, half white vinegar, and 1 cup of baking soda. Mix these together until all the lumps are gone, and dip the gloves into it thoroughly. Remember to remove any inserts or old laces before starting this entire process.

Gently scrub your gloves with a soft-bristled brush after soaking them for about 20-30 minutes. Afterward, rinse each glove under running lukewarm water thoroughly, getting rid of any remaining mixture. Put some newspaper inside each glove so that they will keep their shape when drying out entirely. Leave them out to air-dry in an open and dry space.

Commercial Cleaning Solution

You can buy commercial cleaning solutions specifically designed to clean smelly hockey gear, including gloves. These products often come with detailed instructions that outline how best to use them to ensure optimal results without damaging the glove’s material.

Make sure to read the bottle carefully before applying anything onto the gloves. The cleaner should typically be mixed with warm water as instructed on the product label. Dip the gloves completely inside, squeezing them gently every few minutes to work the cleaner around well.

Follow the product’s instructions, but note that leaving gloves too long in a harsh chemical cleaner may actually damage them further, especially if not rinsed correctly. After immersing them, rinse your gloves thoroughly. Finally, place newspaper inside each glove to help it maintain its shape while air-drying in an open space away from direct sunlight.

“It is essential to ensure that you do not use harsh chemicals or bleach on the gloves as these can damage the material and potentially render them unusable,” advised a sports equipment expert at Pro Stock Hockey.

With these cleaning tips, you’ll know how to clean hockey gloves properly, ensuring they last for several seasons, free of bad odor and bacteria all year long!

Soak And Scrub Your Gloves

Soak In Cleaning Solution

If you want to know how to clean hockey gloves, it all starts with a cleaning solution. Begin by filling up your sink or bucket with warm water and mixing in some detergent or laundry soap. Let your gloves soak for around 15 minutes to let the solution penetrate through the materials deep inside.

You can also use specialty cleaners that are specifically formulated for cleaning sports equipment or hockey gear. These cleaners are specially designed to target tough stains and odors, ensuring that your gloves end up looking and smelling like new after each wash.

Scrub With Soft-Bristled Brush

Mold and bacteria thrive on moist surfaces, and if not dealt with properly, they can compromise the integrity of your hockey gloves. To scrub away as much dirt as possible, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently work into the crevices and seams.

Spend extra time working on areas such as the palm, finger tips, and thumb where hands tend to sweat the most. Use circular motions and pay close attention to any stubborn stains or discolorations.

Focus On Problem Areas

Hockey gloves can accumulate lots of sweat and moisture during games which makes them prone to developing unpleasant smells. If you find yourself having trouble removing stubborn odor from your gloves, try using a deodorizing spray made specifically for sports equipment.

The liners of hockey gloves tend to get dirty over time from frequent use, so make sure to turn them inside out and give them a thorough cleaning every few weeks. Follow instructions provided on the tag to learn more about the ideal care methods for your gloves to maintain their quality and keep them smelling fresh for longer periods.

“It’s essential that players maintain clean equipment, especially gloves, because they’re such an important piece of their hockey gear.” -Coach Manoukian

By following these tips on how to clean your hockey gloves, you’ll be able to keep them in prime condition for longer periods. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your hockey gloves but also ensure that they continue to protect your hands every time you step onto the ice.

Rinse Thoroughly

Hockey gloves are an essential piece of gear, protecting your hands and fingers from injury while playing. They also get a lot of use and can quickly accumulate sweat, dirt, and bacteria. Therefore, cleaning them regularly is crucial to keep them fresh and hygienic. One of the most important steps in this process is rinsing thoroughly.

Use Clean Water

To rinse your hockey gloves properly, start by filling a clean sink or bucket with warm water. Make sure the water temperature isn’t too hot, as it may damage the gloves’ material. Use fresh tap water for the best results. Avoid using any detergent at this stage, as you’re just trying to remove the surface dirt and grime that has accumulated on the gloves.

If you’re washing multiple pairs of gloves or other hockey equipment at once, it’s best to do them one pair at a time rather than all together. Doing so will ensure that each glove gets cleaned thoroughly and won’t be damaged or tangled up together during the wash.

Rinse Until Soap Residue Is Gone

Once you’ve filled the sink or bucket with warm water, place your gloves inside and swirl them around gently. Keep moving them back and forth through the water until you see that the water is dirty. Once you’ve reached this point, drain the sink or bucket and refill it with clean water again.

At this stage, you can add some mild dish soap or laundry detergent to help break down stubborn stains and odors. However, don’t go overboard with it – use only enough to cover the palms and fingers of the gloves. Too much detergent can leave residue and cause skin irritation when you wear them next time.

Again, repeat the swirling motion until the residue from soap is all gone. Rinse until you don’t see any suds in the water.

To dry them, gently pat gloves with a clean towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing your gloves or twisting them too hard as this can damage them and stretch out their shape. You can also hang-dry them but not directly under sunlight or heat source since it may lead to discoloration and weakens the material.

“To keep bacteria at bay, freeze your gloves when they’re fresh out of use. Simply slip them into a plastic bag (a shopping bag will do), seal tightly and place in the freezer. Leave overnight before removing.” -Hockey Playtime

If you rinse and wash your hockey gloves regularly and thoroughly, you’ll be able to prevent unpleasant odors and infections caused by bacteria that accumulate over time. It’s crucial to note that cleaning isn’t something you can skip in order to extend the life of your gear. Neglecting proper maintenance means risking skin irritation and bad performance on the ice.

Air Dry Your Gloves

After playing hockey, it is necessary to clean and dry your gloves. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to air dry them.

To properly air dry your hockey gloves, first remove any excess dirt or debris from the surface. You can use a mild detergent or soap to clean dirty spots but avoid using bleach as it can damage the material. Then gently squeeze out any water that may be remaining in the glove before allowing it to air dry. Do not wring too hard, it may ruin your gloves’ shape.

• Place the gloves on a clean towel or a clothesline outside away from direct sunlight. Direct heat will cause the leather to crack and dry unevenly which ruins its flexibility.
• You can also put them on an indoor drying rack if you want to hasten the process. Make sure the room has good ventilation to allow moisture to escape quickly.
• It usually takes around 12-24 hours for your gloves to completely dry depending on the humidity level and temperature of the area where it’s placed.

“When it comes to drying equipment, it’s best to follow the ‘low and slow’ mantra. Avoid high heat settings when using blow-dryers, ovens, stoves, radiators, direct sunlight (…) they are very tough on your gear,” says Brian Wilbur, an expert at Total Hockey.

Avoid Heat Sources

It is important never to expose your hockey gloves directly to heat sources as it can dry out the leather and cause them to become brittle. This includes traditional heat-sources like electric dryers, hair dryers, space heaters and even direct sunlight. Exposure to extreme heat will lead to shrinkage, cracking and damaged gloves.

Avoid speeding up the drying process by using a hair dryer or other heated air source. High heat will damage your gloves’ material, padding, and ability to absorb impact properly;

• Never use the oven or microwave under any circumstances as this can cause them internally to dry out, leading to them becoming stiff or even breaking apart entirely.
• The use of radiators is also not recommended because the warmth caused from the heating system can be too harsh for the moisture-heavy glove fibers, causing it to shrink

“If you want your gear to last longer and protect you better on the ice, avoid high temperatures,” says Wilbur.

Hang Or Lay Flat To Dry

The next stage of cleaning hockey gloves happens after the excess water has been removed. The rule of thumb here is to hang them using pant hammers, which are designed to keep gloves open and disperse heat evenly while in the hanging position. Alternatively, you could lay down a towel flat with each glove propped open on top. By doing so maximum exposure to surrounding air and prompt evaporation of water would prevent mold growth and unpleasant smells.

• Mold may collect if they start bunched up together–which makes it harrd to remove unpleasant odors later.
• Hanging allows for desired ventilation that enables faster drying times but does affect gravity change the fingers may droop downwards if hung vertically.
• Laying the gloves flat limits their movements to only one plane, reducing pressure points where possible wrinkles may form when the leather dries. Using something soft like a flattened pillow maintained beneath gives an extra cushion especially against abrasion during soaking period

“By hanging your gear after use, you’re allowing the air to continue to circulate and dry up excess moisture.” according to Wilbur.

Turn Inside Out

After cleaning gloves properly from debris, grime or ice residue that may have formed it’s advisable for gloves to be turned inside out; thereby exposing the inner lining of each glove:

• This is an essential step as most sweat and bacteria caused by constant usage gets trapped in these crevices (and cause bad smells). This can only be eliminated properly when given a thorough drying treatment.
• The inside should be exposed to fresh air while outside surfaces absorb sufficient heat so ample evaporation will occur. In doing so the interior lining would not remain damp.
• In addition, if there are any specific areas on the inside of the glove that require more attention like sweat stains, you could work on removing them directly at this point before reassembly.

“Make sure you turn them inside out when washing and always hang wet equipment to prevent bacterial build-up,”says Amine Harit who used to play football with Schalke.

Prevent Future Smells And Bacteria

Wash Gloves Regularly

Hockey gloves can become incredibly stinky, so it’s essential that you wash them regularly to prevent any smells from building up. Washing your hockey gloves also helps to get rid of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.

You can hand-wash most types of hockey gloves using mild detergent and warm water. Gently scrub the fabric with a soft brush or cloth and then rinse thoroughly. Be sure not to submerge the gloves in water for too long as this can damage the padding inside the gloves.

If you prefer, you can also machine-wash some types of gloves. Check the care tags on your gloves to see if they are machine washable before attempting to use this method. Use a delicate cycle and a gentle detergent to avoid damaging the gloves.

“Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your hockey equipment. Improper cleaning can damage the equipment and shorten its lifespan.” -Starr Hockey

Avoid Sharing Gloves

While sharing gloves might seem like an easy solution to sweaty hands during practice or games, it can actually lead to a buildup of bacteria inside the gloves. The bacteria can thrive in the damp environment created by sweat and can quickly make the gloves smell bad and potentially cause infections.

To prevent future smells and bacteria, it’s always best to avoid sharing gloves whenever possible. Try to keep one pair of gloves for yourself and encourage others to do the same.

“Bacteria and fungi love to live in moist environments that don’t receive proper air flow. By keeping your gloves to yourself, you reduce the likelihood of infection and extend the life of your equipment.” -Hockey Training Pro

Store Gloves In A Dry, Ventilated Area

Another way to prevent smells and bacteria from building up is by storing your gloves properly. After every use, make sure to air dry the gloves completely before putting them away.

It’s also essential that you store the gloves in a dry, ventilated area. Avoid keeping them in a damp basement or other closed off areas as this can lead to mold growth. Instead, try hanging the gloves on a hook or drying rack where they can receive proper airflow.

“Hockey gear can take a beating over time. Proper storage helps ensure that your equipment stays fresh-smelling, while reducing the likelihood of damage caused by moisture buildup.” -Pro Hockey Life

Use Odor-Absorbing Materials

If you’ve tried washing your gloves, avoiding sharing them with others and have kept them stored in a dry place but still can’t get rid of the smell, it might be time to invest in some odor-absorbing materials.

Cedar chips are a popular choice for absorbing odors and can easily be inserted into your hockey gloves to keep them smelling fresh. Another option is charcoal bags, which are designed to trap unpleasant odors and keep air smelling clean and fresh. Both options work well and can help extend the life of your hockey gloves.

“Odor-absorbing materials can be a lifesaver for those who struggle with smelly hockey equipment. Not only do these products help remove unwanted scents, but they can also help reduce bacteria growth inside your gloves.” -Pure Hockey

Frequently Asked Questions