If you play ice hockey, then you are most likely well familiar with the thick layer of ice that builds up during the winter on public rinks.
Just like players’ shirts and shoes, the hands and socks of hockey players become dirty and grubby from playing in the sport. In some cases, this can lead to health problems. This is why it’s important to clean and maintain your hockey gear.
Fortunately, maintaining clean hockey gear is easier than you think. You just need to use the right materials and tools to do the job. Today, we will walk you through the process of cleaning your leather hockey gloves (and other gear, like mouth guards and head protection). We will cover everything from pre-cleaning to storing and cleaning your equipment after use.
The Dirt Before And After
Before you start cleaning your gear, it’s important to know what kind of dirt and grime it contains. This way, you will be able to choose the right detergents and materials to remove it.
The easiest way to find this out is by simply wiping it off with a clean, wet cloth. This will allow you to see the actual material of your gear before you begin any kind of cleaning process.
Besides, you should learn the different types of dirt and grime that may be present on your gear. The gloves you are using may contain latex, leather, or textile fibers. Sock material can also affect the cleanliness of your hands and feet. This is why it’s important to learn how to clean different types of dirt and grime from your gear.
Depending on the material of your equipment, you may need to use different detergents and solutions to clean it. Nevertheless, most skaters and hockey players use cleaners composed of water and soap to remove the majority of the dirt from their equipment.
The Tools You Need
Now that you know what kind of dirt your gear is filled with, it’s time to get the tools to remove it. You will need equipment such as a brush, cleaning rag, and warm soapy water to get the job done right.
To start, simply use the brush to remove surface dirt. A soft brush is ideal for this task since it will not scratch or damage the surface of your gear. A wire brush may also be used but be sure to protect your hands from getting cut by the sharp ends of the bristles.
After you have cleaned the surface of your gloves with a brush, you can remove the majority of the dirt with a soft cloth. Letting your gloves air dry after each use will also help prevent any further contamination.
The Process
Once you have cleaned the surface of your gloves, it’s time to move on to the next stage of the process. After you have cleaned one set of gloves, it’s time to move on to the next stage of the process. Remember: cleanliness is the key to playing hockey successfully.
After you have cleaned each set of hands, you should store them in a clean and dry place until you are ready to use them again. Storing your gloves in this manner will prevent any further germ growth and make them smell better when you use them again.
Taking good care of your equipment will not only keep your body healthy but also help you play better. With proper treatment, you can prevent many of the illnesses that come with playing hockey. This is why it is so important to learn how to properly clean and maintain your equipment!