Do you play hockey or are you the parent of a hockey player? If so, you know that hockey gear requires regular cleaning and maintenance in order to ensure its longevity and performance.
But what’s the best way to clean hockey gear? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to clean and maintain hockey gear, from hand-washing to machine-washing, to using a disinfectant spray and leather conditioner.
Read on to learn how to keep your hockey gear clean and looking great!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Hockey gear should be cleaned after each use.
To do this, start by removing any protective padding from the gear and wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Then, use a gentle soap and warm water to wash the gear and rinse it off.
Hang the gear to air dry, and use a disinfectant spray to kill any bacteria.
What Materials Do You Need to Clean Hockey Gear?
When it comes to cleaning hockey gear, it’s important to have the right materials on hand.
First, you’ll need a mild detergent and warm water.
You’ll also need a clean, soft cloth or sponge to scrub the gear with.
It’s also a good idea to have a disinfectant spray and a leather conditioner on hand for any leather components of the gear, such as the straps on the skates.
Additionally, you’ll need a place to air dry the gear, such as a warm and dry room or area outside.
Finally, if you have access to a steamer, it can help to remove stubborn dirt and bacteria from the gear.
With these materials, you can easily clean and maintain your hockey gear.
How to Hand Wash Hockey Gear
Hand washing hockey gear is a necessary part of keeping it in good condition and ensuring it lasts.
The first step in hand washing hockey gear is to gather all of the items you will need.
You will need a mild detergent, warm water, a large basin or bucket, a soft brush or sponge for scrubbing, and a soft cloth for drying.
Fill the basin or bucket with warm water and a small amount of detergent.
Submerge the hockey gear into the water and scrub it gently with the brush or sponge.
Make sure to get into all the crevices and seams of the gear.
Once you have thoroughly scrubbed the gear, empty the basin and rinse the gear with fresh water.
After rinsing, lay the gear out on a soft towel to air dry, making sure to avoid direct sunlight.
Once the gear is completely dry, use a disinfectant spray to kill any remaining bacteria.
Finally, use a leather conditioner on any leather components of the gear, such as the straps on the skates.
This will help to keep the leather soft and supple, and protect it from cracking or drying out.
Following these steps will help to ensure your hockey gear is clean and in optimal condition.
How to Machine Wash Hockey Gear
When it comes to cleaning hockey gear, machine washing is one of the most efficient and effective methods. It is important to remember that not all hockey gear is machine washable, so you should always check the manufacturers instructions before putting any gear in the washing machine. If the gear is machine washable, follow these steps for best results:
1. Start by pre-treating any areas with dirt or sweat stains with a pre-wash stain remover.
2. Place the gear in the washing machine and choose a warm water cycle.
3. Use a mild detergent and add a few drops of bleach to the wash water if desired.
4. Run the cycle and check the gear after its done to make sure everything is clean and free of any remaining dirt or grime.
5. Once the gear is washed and rinsed, air dry it completely, avoiding direct sunlight.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your hockey gear is clean and in optimal condition.
Cleaning your gear regularly is an important part of keeping it in good condition and ensuring that it lasts.
How to Air Dry Hockey Gear
Air drying hockey gear is a crucial part of the cleaning process.
It is important to avoid direct sunlight when air drying as this can cause damage to the gear.
To air dry hockey gear, begin by hanging the gear in an open, well-ventilated area.
The gear should not be hung too close together, as this can lead to mildew and other issues.
If possible, it is ideal to hang the gear in a place that is not exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures.
You can also lay the gear flat on a towel or rack to air dry.
If the gear is very wet, it is a good idea to change the towel or rack to a dry one to ensure that the gear is completely dry.
Once the gear is dry, it is ready to be disinfected and conditioned.
How to Use a Disinfectant Spray
When it comes to cleaning hockey gear, a disinfectant spray is an important step to ensure that any bacteria on the gear is destroyed.
It is important to use a disinfectant spray that is specifically designed for hockey gear, as certain chemicals can damage the gear and make it unsafe for use.
When using a disinfectant spray, it is important to read and follow the instructions carefully.
First, make sure the gear is completely dry before you apply the disinfectant spray.
You should also make sure you are in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes from the disinfectant spray can be hazardous.
Once the gear is dry and the area is well-ventilated, you are ready to begin.
Start by shaking the can of disinfectant spray and then hold it about 12 inches away from the gear.
Spray the entire surface of the gear, making sure to cover it completely.
Allow the spray to remain on the gear for the length of time indicated on the can.
Once the required time has passed, you can wipe away any excess spray with a clean cloth.
When you are finished, make sure you store the disinfectant spray in a safe place, away from children and pets.
You should also make sure you follow the safety precautions on the can to avoid any potential risks.
By following these steps, you can properly use a disinfectant spray to clean your hockey gear and keep it safe and sanitary.
How to Use a Leather Conditioner
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your hockey gear, a leather conditioner is an essential part of the process.
Leather conditioner will help keep your gear looking new and in optimal condition, and it is important to use a quality product that is specifically designed for leather hockey gear.
First, make sure the gear is completely dry before applying the leather conditioner.
This will ensure that the conditioner can be properly absorbed into the leather, and that the leather does not become too saturated with the conditioner.
Next, apply the conditioner in a thin layer with a soft cloth or brush, focusing on the areas that are most exposed to wear and tear.
Allow the conditioner to fully absorb into the leather, then buff off any excess with a clean, dry cloth.
It is important not to apply too much conditioner, as this can lead to build-up and a sticky residue.
Finally, if your hockey gear has any metal components, such as snaps or buckles, you can use a small amount of the leather conditioner to lubricate them.
This will help keep them in good condition and make sure they are easy to open and close.
By following these steps, you can keep your hockey gear clean and in optimal condition, and extend the lifespan of your gear.
It is important to use a quality leather conditioner specifically designed for hockey gear, and to follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
Additional Tips for Cleaning Hockey Gear
In addition to the steps outlined above, there are other ways to keep your hockey gear clean.
One of the most important steps is to avoid putting your gear away damp or wet.
This can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be difficult to remove and can cause damage to the gear.
It is also important to remove the sweat from the pads after each use.
This can be done by wiping them down with a clean cloth or towel.
If you have any leather components, it is important to treat them with a leather conditioner specifically designed for hockey gear.
This will help to keep the leather soft and supple and will help to extend the life of the gear.
Finally, it is important to store your gear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
This will help to ensure that your gear stays in optimal condition for longer.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning hockey gear is an essential part of keeping it in optimal condition and ensuring that players stay safe and healthy.
By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your hockey gear clean and looking like new.
So now that you know how to clean hockey gear, what are you waiting for? Get out there and get cleaning!