How to Wash Football Gloves for Durability and Clean Wear

Football gloves are protective or grip-enhancing gear worn by players to improve their connection with the ball or to protect their hands and fingers on the field. With improved grip and ball control, this sports equipment strikes a balance between protection and confidence on the field, while also facilitating effective catching and handling.

However, like any sports gear, football gloves accumulate dirt, grime, sweat, body oils, and bacteria or viruses from daily use, and they require cleaning and disinfecting to remain hygienic and prevent damage. Therefore, cleaning football gloves involves more than just rinsing them quickly; proper washing is crucial for maintaining their grip, flexibility, and durability.

But wait a moment. It’s not only the visible stains or odour on the gloves you need to worry about, but also the bacteria and viruses that detergents may leave behind. For a hygienic, clean, and fresh environment, take an extra step by using laundry disinfectant solutions, such as Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen.

Continue reading to learn how to wash football gloves properly, so they stay clean, fresh, and ready for the game throughout the season.

Best way to clean football gloves

Here’s how to wash and sanitize football gloves for a clean, long-lasting, and game-ready grip.

Step 1: Read the care label

Imagine preparing for a big game, slipping on your football gloves, only to realize they’ve lost some of their grip due to improper washing. That’s why, before washing your football gloves, always check the care label for the correct instructions.

Different brands may require slightly different washing methods to maintain the condition of their materials. Gloves also require different washing techniques to preserve the materials and ensure they perform well. 

Step 2: Wipe off any loose dirt

Before moving on to washing, we first need to remove visible particles like surface dirt and grime from the football gloves. Hold them under cool, running water and gently rub the palms and fabric together. This simple step helps wash away visible impurities such as mud, grass, and sweat without damaging the glove’s grip.

For stubborn spots, gently scrub with your hands or a soft cloth, like removing dried mud from polyester palms or wiping sweat stains from nylon fingertips. Avoid harsh brushes or rough pads that can damage the grip. 

Avoid using hot water on polyester or nylon, as it can cause the fabric to shrink or make the surface tacky. Gentle cleaning helps keep the gloves flexible and their tackiness.

Step 3: Add detergent with laundry disinfectant

It’s finally wash time, the moment your gloves get the deep clean they deserve after battling sweat, dirt, germs, odours, and field grime.

Start by filling a basin or sink with cool water and adding a mild, bleach-free liquid detergent to lift away built-up oils and residue gently. To disinfect your gloves, add and mix Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen according to the directions on the label into the water.

This laundry disinfectant formula doesn’t just clean or wash; it kills and eliminates 99.99% of viruses and bacteria that detergents may leave behind*. This Lysol® disinfectant contains 0% bleach, is gentle on fabric, and offers a crisp linen fragrance. 

Step 4: Submerge the gloves and gently scrub

With your basin now filled with cool water, detergent, and Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant – Crisp Linen, fully submerge the gloves and let them soak for a few minutes. This soak allows sweat, oils, dirt, germs, and bacteria to loosen from the fibers without harsh effort. Think of it as giving your gloves a refreshing pause after long hours of play.

Next, use your fingertips to gently scrub the palms and backs, focusing on areas like polyester palms where dried mud sticks or nylon patches that hold sweat marks. Handle sensitive spots such as mesh panels, stitched logos, and the wrist strap with extra care. By scrubbing carefully, you’re not just cleaning; you’re restoring the comfort, grip, and durability of your gloves.

Step 5: Rinse out the detergent & disinfectant

After soaking, lift the gloves from the basin and replace the soapy water with fresh, cold water to start rinsing. Gently swirl the gloves or hold them under a steady stream of cool tap water until all the suds are gone and the water runs clear.

Be thorough, as any leftover solution can cause the palms to feel stiff or slippery during play. For example, some brands emphasize that residue buildup can decrease grip, so a complete rinse is essential to keep your gloves game-ready.

Step 6: Air Dry

To air dry football gloves, carefully squeeze out excess water without twisting, as twisting can harm the stitching and grip. Lay them flat on a clean towel or hang them with clothespins or a hanger in a well-ventilated spot. 

Flip them occasionally if placed flat to ensure both sides dry evenly. Air-drying football gloves in a well-ventilated area is important to prevent bacteria, odours, and mold growth by removing moisture.

^*vs. Detergent alone; Always read and follow the label.

FAQs

Do football gloves carry germs?

Yes. Football gloves can trap sweat, dirt, and bacteria during practices and games. Since they stay in close contact with your hands, unwashed gloves can spread germs that may cause unpleasant odours or even skin irritation. Regular cleaning with trusted laundry disinfectants like Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses that detergents may leave behind^*.

Can football gloves be washed in a washing machine, or should they be hand-washed?

Yes, most football gloves can be washed in a washing machine, but hand washing is usually recommended because it helps preserve the sticky grip and lowers the chance of damage. Always read the fabric care tag for proper care.

How often should football gloves be cleaned during the season?

Football gloves should be washed as needed, ideally once a week or after about 10 uses, depending on playing conditions, to help prevent bacterial buildup and keep a good grip.

Do football gloves lose grip after frequent washing?

Proper washing actually can help football gloves maintain and even restore their grip by removing layers of dirt, sweat, and debris that build up during play. When cleaned correctly, the gloves not only regain their tackiness but also last longer, ensuring consistent performance and hygiene on the field.

What should you avoid when washing football gloves to protect their grip?

When cleaning football gloves, avoid exposing them to high heat from dryers and direct sunlight, as these can weaken the grip material, make the gloves brittle, and reduce their overall effectiveness. 

How can I keep my football gloves smelling fresh?

The best way to reduce odours is to wash your gloves regularly to remove sweat and bacteria. After each use, allow them to fully air dry instead of leaving them in a gym bag, which encourages odour buildup. For an extra layer of freshness, wash with Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectants to disinfect your football gloves, leaving it hygienic and game-ready.