Glove care

Since we briefly discussed the other day how to look after your glove during the off-season I thought I would have a look online to see what other info I could find.

The Mizuno website says this:

1. After the break in period, proper care should be taken to maximize the performance and durability of your glove including storing it with a softball or two baseballs in the pocket and conditioning and cleaning the glove at the end of the season.

2. Petroleum jelly is recommended for end of season conditioning and cleaning. Use a small amount over the entire glove making sure not to neglect the lacing and the inside where salt and acid from perspiration can build up damaging the softer interior leather lining.

Baseballgloves.com says this:

Properly caring for your baseball glove can make a huge difference in the lifespan of your glove. We recommend checking with the manufacturer of your glove to see what they recommend.

• Keep your baseball glove in a cool, dry place when it is not in use. Do not leave your glove where the heat could affect the leather (the trunk of your car).
• If your glove gets wet, dry it with a towel and let it air-dry. Do not put it in the oven or near a heater as it may dry out the leather.
• Do not over oil your baseball glove! A few time each season is plenty.
• Keep the laces tight.

From Nokona: "We do not recommend neatsfoot oil, linseed oil or silicon-type spray as these tend to close the pores of the leather, causing it to dry, harden, and become heavy over an extended period of time and through repeated use. Petroleum jelly keeps the pores open and in effect, keeps the leather “alive” while providing a softening condition. There are other cleaners and conditioners that are safe, especially those scientifically developed for glove leather."

Follow these tips, check with your manufacturer and your baseball glove should treat you well!

I hope that helps a bit!