While playing lacrosse, you will be covered in dirt, dust, and sweat. Your lacrosse gloves absorb sweat and trap dust, so cleaning them is important for hygiene as well as performance. Knowing how to clean lacrosse gloves properly is also important to ensure they last longer (unless you want a new pair of gloves now and then).
- Why Cleaned Lacrosse Gloves Matter?
- What Are Lacrosse Gloves Made Of?
- How Lacrosse Gloves Can Get Dirty
- Step-by-Step: How to Clean Lacrosse Gloves
- Alternative Method To Clean Lacrosse Gloves
- How to Dry Lacrosse Gloves (Without Ruining Them)
- Cleaning Checklist
- Dos and Donts About Lacrosse Gloves Care
- People Also Ask
Now, cleaning is one bit and you don’t want to ruin your lacrosse gloves while cleaning them, especially considering how expensive they can be. Taking the right care of them will help maintain their quality and extend their lifespan.
In this article, I have listed the best method to safely wash, maintain, clean, and dry your lacrosse gloves and lacrosse equipment for optimal performance and longer lasting.
I have done it throughout my playing tenure and it has worked like a charm for me.
Why Cleaned Lacrosse Gloves Matter?
Lacrosse gloves are not just for style—they are your hands’ first defense against rough plays. But with sweat, dirt, and grime constantly building up, your gloves can become a breeding ground for bacteria and odor.
Research published by the American Society for Microbiology found that 43% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates recovered from exercise equipment surfaces were resistant to ampicillin.
Keeping them clean is not just about hygiene; it also ensures better grip and feel.
While we are at it, here is my review of the best lacrosse gloves for this year.
What Are Lacrosse Gloves Made Of?
Before learning about how to clean your lacrosse gloves, you should know the material of your lacrosse gloves.
Different types of materials have a few key things to keep in mind when starting with the cleaning process.
| Material Type | Key Features | Cleaning Note |
| Synthetic Leather | Durable and water-resistant | Avoid harsh chemicals |
| Mesh Fabric | Breathable but prone to dirt buildup | Gentle cleaning required |
| Foam Padding | Provides protection and cushioning | Air drying is essential to prevent mold |
How Lacrosse Gloves Can Get Dirty
Before you get started with the cleaning process, you need to know how your gloves get dirty because techniques will vary based on that.
| Source of Dirt | Description | How to Address |
| Exterior Dirt | Mud, dust, and scuffs from playing on wet or rough fields. | Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or toothbrush to clean the surface. |
| Strong Odors | The buildup of sweat and bacteria inside the gloves causes unpleasant smells. | Use specialized cleaning agents designed for sports gear or anti-odor sprays. |
| Palm Dirt | Grime and sweat are embedded in the palm material, especially in leather or synthetic gloves. | Use gentle cleaning methods for synthetic palms and minimal water for leather, adding shea butter if needed. |
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Lacrosse Gloves
Learning how to clean your lacrosse gloves is easy. All you need is some mild detergent and warm water. You can toss them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle or go old-school by filling up a sink, bathtub, or bucket with lukewarm water and a bit of liquid detergent.
Let them soak for a bit, give them a good but gentle rinse, and your gloves will look (and smell) almost brand new.
Just follow these simple steps that I have mentioned below, and you are all set.
1. Initial Inspection
Check for rips, tears, or damaged padding. If it is damaged, don’t clean it because cleaning damaged gloves can make issues worse. It’s best to buy a new pair of gloves.
2. Shake Off Dirt
Shake the gloves to remove loose dirt or debris. Use a soft brush for stubborn spots.
3. Wash by Hand
Fill a bucket with lukewarm water (hot water can damage the leather of the gloves).
Add a mild detergent (like one designed for sports gear).
Submerge the gloves for 10 to 15 minutes and gently scrub the surfaces with a soft cloth.
Note: Do not use bleach or fabric softener because it can damage your gloves and cause discoloration.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the gloves with clean water to remove all soap residues.
5. Clean The Outside Of The Gloves
To clean the outside of your lacrosse gloves, use a soft-bristled brush, sponge, or even a toothbrush.
Gently scrub to avoid damaging the material, and rinse your tools thoroughly between uses.
Alternative Method To Clean Lacrosse Gloves
You can wash your gloves in the washing machine on the lowest setting.
You can also use disinfectant soap, spray, or gel. (Optional)
Watch this video for a demonstration of how to clean lacrosse gloves.
How to Dry Lacrosse Gloves (Without Ruining Them)
Now you might be thinking, is there a specific method to dry the gloves too? Well, sports gear is precious, and it requires thorough care. Knowing how to dry lacrosse gloves is equally important as cleaning them so you won’t ruin them.
- Use a towel to remove excess water.
- Place gloves in a well-ventilated area. Let it dry naturally in the open air on a stand vertically (horizontal placement also works fine).
- Don’t use a dryer or leave gloves in direct sunlight. It can warp the materials.
A pro tip is to stuff the lacrosse gloves with hard paper once they are dried enough for it. It will help them maintain their shape and absorb moisture faster. Otherwise, most lacrosse gloves contract and lose their shape.
Cleaning Checklist
I have made things easier for you by making a checklist about how often you should take care of your lacrosse gloves.
| Task | Frequency | Tips |
| Wipe Down After Games | After Every Game | Use a damp cloth and mild soap |
| Full Cleaning Routine | Monthly | Hand wash and air dry |
| Disinfect Interior | As Needed | Light vinegar-water spray |
| Odor Maintenance | Weekly | Use sprays or baking soda |
Dos and Donts About Lacrosse Gloves Care
The cleaning checklist brings me to the DOs and DON’Ts of the lacrosse glove care routine.
The following are some of the most common mistakes that players commit while cleaning their lacrosse gear or any sports gear for that matter.
| Dos | Don'ts |
| Use mild detergent and lukewarm water. | Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach. |
| Gently scrub the exterior with a soft brush. | Don’t scrub too hard, as it can damage the material. |
| Air-dry gloves in a well-ventilated area. | Don’t use dryers or expose gloves to direct sunlight. |
| Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. | Avoid leaving gloves wet; it can cause mold growth. |
| Check gloves for damage before cleaning. | Don’t soak leather palms excessively, as it weakens them. |
People Also Ask
How Do I Get the Smell Out of Lacrosse Gloves?
To remove odors, soak gloves in lukewarm water with a mild detergent or use sports gear-specific anti-odor sprays. Ensure proper drying to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness.
Can I Put Lacrosse Gloves in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can wash lacrosse gloves on the lowest machine setting using mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Air-dry gloves to maintain their quality and shape.
How to Clean Inside Lacrosse Gloves?
Use a light vinegar-water spray or disinfectant soap to clean the interior. Gently scrub and rinse thoroughly, then air-dry in a ventilated area to prevent mold growth.
How to Clean the Outside of Lacrosse Gloves?
Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge with lukewarm water and mild detergent to clean the exterior. Avoid harsh scrubbing, and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
How to Clean a Dirty Lacrosse Stick?
Wipe the shaft with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt. For the head, use a soft brush and warm soapy water. Dry thoroughly to prevent damage.
Now that you know how to clean lacrosse gloves, it’s time to put those methods and tips into action. A little care goes a long way in keeping your gloves fresh, durable, and ready for every game.
By taking a few simple steps to clean and dry them, you are not just maintaining hygiene; you are extending their life and ensuring top performance on the field. Your gloves deserve better, and so do you!
