Baseball gloves are made of leather and if not properly cared for, the stitching and the leather can become frayed, cracked and even fall apart. The following are some tips for caring for your brand new glove, how to maintain it during the season and how to prepare the glove for storage in the off season.
New gloves are stiff and dry so conditioning it prior to ever using it is paramount. Use a lanolin based product on your glove to make it soft and supple. Avoid using any oil based product as they will build up in the pores of the leather making it heavier and can eventually cause the disintegration of the leather. Conditioning your glove not only makes the leather supple but it will effectively protect against environmental damage such as sun, mud and rain.
Care for your glove during the season by always keeping it clean. Promptly remove any mud and let the glove dry naturally, inside, away from a sunny window. Fix any broken laces promptly and if the leather begins to feel stiff or overly dry apply a thin layer of conditioner and allow it to soak in.
Preparing your glove properly for storage over the off season is important so that it is ready to go when spring arrives. Always clean the glove thoroughly and tighten laces if they’ve come loose. Check for unraveled stitching and apply a thin layer of conditioner, working it well into the leather. Store the glove away from sunlight and heat sources so it doesn’t dry out.
Proper care of a baseball glove is imperative if you want to be able to use it year after year. Your favorite glove should be supple and feel like an extension of your hand. Proper maintenance of it will keep the glove in top working condition for many, many years.
