Last Updated on November 13, 2023 by Matt Musico
To find success in anything, you need to know the right technique. That’s true in all aspects of life, especially baseball. To have success on the diamond, you need to start preparing off it, and part of that is knowing how to clean batting gloves.
Batting gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any baseball or softball player. With proper cleaning, you can extend the lifespan of your batting gloves while keeping them looking and smelling fresh.
Cleaning your batting gloves is easy, and you don’t need anything special to do it. All that’s needed is soap, water, and a soft cloth, as well as avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
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Understanding Batting Gloves
Batting gloves serve many purposes. They provide a better grip on the bat, protect your hands from blisters, and can absorb shock from hitting a ball.
Most are made of leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both and come in different sizes, colors, and designs. Some have additional padding on the palm and fingers for extra protection.
It’s important to choose the right size and fit for maximum comfort and performance. A glove that’s too tight can restrict movement and be uncomfortable. Meanwhile, a loose glove can make swinging a bat harder than it already is.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions are important when it comes to cleaning. After all, they made the glove, so they should know the best way to clean them. Most can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. However, some may require special cleaning products or techniques.
Related: Best Batting Gloves 2023: 9 Terrific Options From Top Brands
Preparation for Cleaning
Before cleaning your batting gloves, you need to prepare a few things. First, gather everything you’ll need: a soft cloth, mild detergent, and lukewarm water. Next, remove any excess dirt or debris by clapping the gloves together.
If your gloves have velcro straps, fasten them together to prevent them from sticking to other things. And don’t skip reading the care label to ensure you don’t use any cleaning methods that could damage them.
Are your gloves really dirty? You might have to soak them in lukewarm water and mild detergent for a few minutes before cleaning. And as we’ve already said a couple of times, avoid using hot water or harsh chemicals.
Cleaning Process
To keep your batting gloves in good condition, they should be cleaned regularly. There are two ways to get that done: washing them by hand or in the machine.
Hand Wash
- Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water.
- Add a few drops of mild detergent.
- Gently rub the gloves together in the soapy water.
- Rinse the gloves thoroughly with clean water.
- Squeeze the excess water out of the gloves.
- Hang the gloves to dry at room temperature.
Machine Wash
- Put the gloves in a mesh laundry bag.
- Add a few towels to balance the load.
- Use a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Avoid using fabric softener or bleach.
- Hang the gloves to dry at room temperature.
Remember to always check the care label before washing your batting gloves. If the label says “dry clean only”, take them to a professional cleaner. Avoid using hot water or drying your gloves in the dryer.
Drying Batting Gloves
One way to dry the gloves is to lay them flat on a clean towel. Make sure to reshape the gloves as they dry to prevent them from shrinking or losing their shape. This may take a few hours to a day, depending on the humidity and temperature.
Another way to dry batting gloves is to hang them on a clothesline or hanger. Use clothespins to secure them in place. This method allows air to circulate around the gloves, helping them dry faster.
Once they’re dry, check for any remaining moisture or dampness. If they’re still damp, leave them out to dry for a few more hours. Remember, it’s important for batting gloves to be completely dry to prevent any mold/mildew from forming.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your batting gloves in good condition, follow these general maintenance tips:
- Air them out: After each game or practice, let your gloves air out to dry. This will help prevent odors and bacteria growth.
- Clap them together: Clap your gloves together to remove any excess debris and dirt.
- Brush them lightly: Use a dry leather brush to brush your gloves lightly to remove any remaining dirt and debris.
- Wipe them clean: If your gloves are still dirty, clean them with a detergent and water mixture. Don’t saturate the leather with water. Wipe them clean and dry at room temperature.
- Store them properly: Store your gloves in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or damp areas.
Common Mistakes
When it comes to cleaning batting gloves, there are a few common mistakes people tend to make. Here are some things to avoid:
- Using harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia to clean your gloves. These can damage the leather and cause it to dry out.
- Not drying properly: Make sure your gloves are completely dry before using. Hanging them up to air dry is the best option since using a dryer can cause damage to the leather.
- Over-saturating with water: Be careful not to saturate the leather of your gloves with water. This can cause the leather to become waterlogged and lose its shape.
- Not cleaning regularly: It’s important to clean your gloves regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and sweat. Neglecting to do so can cause the gloves to deteriorate more quickly.
Regularly cleaning batting gloves can keep them in good condition for a longer period of time. The ideal scenario is to clean them after every use, but it can be hard to do that and dry them completely before your next game. So, just make sure it’s something that’s regularly done on a smaller scale during the season. And once your final game is done, give them a thorough cleaning before offseason workouts start.
Following the simple steps outlined above will ensure that your batting gloves stay clean and in good condition for many games to come. So, if you’re attached to your batting gloves, treat them in such a way that they’ll stick around for a while!
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