After a few rounds, your favorite golf gloves can start looking a bit worse for wear, and they can often end up stiff, stained, and even stinky. Discover everything you need to know to keep those golf gloves looking clean and feeling like new, as well as ensuring they last for years to come.
Determining How to Clean Your Gloves
Before cleaning, first determine the material your golf gloves are made of. Are they leather or synthetic? Leather golf gloves need a little more care and should never be machine washed. Synthetic golf gloves, on the other hand, can take a bit more of a beating. Either way, always check the label for washing instructions.
Steps in Cleaning and Maintaining Your Golf Gloves
What You’ll Need:
- Mild Soap or Leather Cleaner
- Cold Water
- Microfiber Cloth or Soft Brush
- White Vinegar
- Conditioner
- Towel
- Mesh Laundry Bag
Steps:
1. Decide on Manual or Machine Cleaning
- Manual Cleaning: If your golf gloves are leather, skip the machine altogether. Gently hand wash them in cold water using a tiny bit of mild soap or detergent or leather cleaner. Rinse thoroughly, but avoid twisting or wringing out the golf glove—this can warp the shape.
- Machine Washing: If your golf gloves are synthetic, you can machine wash them, but only on a gentle cycle with cold water. Place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from getting snagged. Use a mild detergent, and skip the fabric softener—it's not glove-friendly.
2. Disinfecting
To disinfect without damaging, create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and cold water. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and gently dab the golf glove along the creases, folds, and seams. This kills bacteria and removes any unwanted odor without causing harm.
3. Stain Removal
For stubborn stains, use a bit of baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with a bit of water). Apply to the stain, gently rub with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse with cold water.
4. Proper Drying
Avoid the dryer at all costs. Instead, gently press the golf gloves between a towel to remove excess water. Lay them flat in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat. Keep the golf gloves in their natural shape to prevent them from shrinking or curling up.
5. Conditioning Leather Gloves
Leather gloves need to stay soft and supple. Once your leather gloves are dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a clean cloth and gently rub it onto the gloves. This prevents cracking and keeps them soft.
6. Storing
After cleaning, keep your gloves flat and in a cool, dry place. Storing them in their original packaging or a breathable fabric bag can help maintain their shape and quality.
Do’s and Don’ts for Cleaning Golf Gloves
Do’s:
- Use cold water and mild soap.
- Hand wash leather gloves whenever possible.
- Condition leather gloves regularly.
- Use a mesh bag for machine-washing synthetic gloves.
- Dry naturally, away from heat and sunlight.
- For leather gloves, use a mild soap or saddle or glycerin soap.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use bleach, harsh detergents, or fabric softeners.
- Don’t wring out or twist the gloves—this will damage them.
- Avoid hot water; it can shrink and stiffen the material.
- Don’t use abrasive brushes or cloths.
FAQs
How Often Should I Wash My Golf Gloves?
Wash them as needed. After a particularly sweaty round or if you notice an odor, it's time for a wash.
When Should I Replace My Golf Gloves?
When they start losing their grip, showing significant wear, or becoming uncomfortable, it’s time for a new pair.
Can All Golf Gloves Be Washed?
Not all gloves are washable. Always check the care label. Leather gloves generally need to be hand-washed, while synthetic gloves can often handle a gentle machine cycle.
What About Static Electricity?
It’s not typically a concern with golf gloves, but if static is an issue, lightly rubbing the gloves with a dryer sheet can help.
When Should I Seek Professional Help?
For high-end or custom gloves, consider professional cleaning to maintain quality.
Best Care Tips for Golf Gloves
- Keep them clean, but don’t over-wash.
- Always air-dry—never use heat.
- Condition leather gloves regularly to keep them supple.
- Rotate between a few pairs to extend the life of each.
- Store them properly—flat, in a cool, dry place.
When Not to Wash Your Golf Gloves
If the gloves are showing signs of wear and tear, like fraying seams or thinning material, washing might do more harm than good. At that point, consider a replacement rather than a rinse.
