Last updated on : January 17th, 2023 at 03:39 pm
After each use, you must follow the steps on how to clean workout gloves so that you can avoid bacteria and sweat buildup. To do that, you must wash your gloves, and air dry them. Sanitation is also crucial to prevent having stinky gloves inside your gym bag on the next workout schedule.
Imagine that, on average, a person can produce 0.8-1.4 liters of sweat per hour during physical activity; that is because an average human body has around 2.6 million sweat glands.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary procedures you need to take to ensure that the condition of your workout gloves will be maintained. So without further ado, let’s get into it.
Steps To Clean Workout Gloves
Typically, workout gloves are available in different materials, including cotton, neoprene, and leather. It can also be a combination of any two of those materials. And we all leave sweat and dirt on them when working out. Read below to find out the proper steps on how to clean workout gloves:
Step #1. Washing your workout gloves
Before you soak your gloves in the water, take note of their material first. If you have a pair of leather gloves, you should only use mild soap and a damp cloth to wipe away some of them.
For neoprene gloves, also use a damp cloth but with time, with mild detergent. That is for cleaning its inside. You must also clean the outside of your gloves using a neoprene protectant or leather conditioner.
If your gloves are made of cotton, then it is safe to wash them. Add some detergent to the sink filled with warm water to do that. Ensure that the water is not too hot. After that, soak your gloves in soapy water and massage and scrub to get rid of the grime.
Some would also machine wash their workout gloves. Still, I highly discourage you from it if you want to maintain the condition of your workout equipment. You can wash your neoprene or cotton gloves in your washing machine. But then again, this is not recommended.
Friends, you have to know how to wash work gloves – most effective methods.
Step #2. Drying your workout gloves
Regardless of the type of gloves you have, you should air dry them to dry after rinse. But avoid putting it under direct sunlight to prevent damage.
Even if you resort to machine washing your neoprene or cotton gloves, avoid tumble drying them. The best way to dry your gloves is through air drying. Every time you go to the gym, your gloves will still feel look like it’s brand new.
Step #3. Disinfect your workout gloves
Remember that it is inevitable for your gloves to develop a foul smell due to bacteria and germs, which is why you also need to disinfect them. When it is completely dry, you can sprinkle some talcum powder inside your gloves to absorb the remaining moisture.
This will also prevent the sticking of your gloves. If your gloves develop a foul odor, you can also submerge them in water mixed with vinegar. Leave it for 30 minutes, then clean it as usual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the answers to your questions:
#1. How long can workout gloves last?
The lifespan of workout gloves varies depending on which material it is made of. Another factor is the frequency of use. Typically, leather gloves can last up to 6 to 12 months. The lifespan of neoprene gloves ranges from 3 to 6 months, while cotton can only last up to 3 months.
#2. When should you clean your workout gloves?
Perhaps, you are using Crossfit for weightlifting or other fitness training. The general rule is to clean them after each use. You should know that your hands get sweaty inside the gloves and use them to touch other surfaces at the gym as you exercise.
This can lead to the proliferation of bacteria and virus. So ensure to know how to clean leather work gloves after use for a clean, safe, and healthy workout. This will also prevent you from having stinky palms and fingers once you remove your gloves.
#3. What to do if there is a hole or tear in your workout gloves?
If you notice a hole or tear, stop using your gloves immediately. Leather gloves can be repaired using leather glue or a patch. On the other hand, fabric gloves can be repaired using thread and a needle. But if it cannot be repaired anymore, then it’s time to find a replacement.
#4. How will you know if your workout gloves need a replacement?
Some telltale signs include the following:
- When it no longer fits your hands or wrists comfortably. Perhaps, it is too loose or too tight, causing discomfort and affecting your grip.
- There are signs of wear and tear shown on the fabric. This can include holes, fraying, and other damages.
- You are not provided with the same amount of protection anymore.
#5. What cleaning mistakes should you avoid?
For Velcro and leather gloves, you should avoid cleaning them too often. A leather glove should only be cleaned every week. But this also depends on the frequency of use. Some people also fail to clean their workout gloves.
You should avoid this as it will make it harder for you to clean it later on since there will be too much dirt and sweat buildup. Another cleaning mistake to avoid is the use of the wrong cleaning products. Just like our clothes, gloves will also wear out faster when the right products are not used.
It’s A Wrap!
Finally, you can figure out the steps on how to clean workout gloves. Cleaning does not necessarily mean washing the gloves. Sometimes, all you need to do is to wipe off the dirt and grime. Then, sanitize it to get rid of the stinky odor.
Also, air drying away from the sun is essential to avoid wearing out the material. That’s pretty much it for today! Hopefully, we have provided you with enough information.