Trevor Ng
Golf gloves are an essential piece of golfing equipment, protecting your hands from blisters and providing a better grip on the club. However, over time, your gloves will accumulate dirt, sweat, and salt, leading to a build-up of odours. While some gloves will need to be replaced once they start smelling, you can extend the lifespan of your gloves by cleaning them regularly. The best method for cleaning golf gloves depends on the type of glove you have, so it's important to identify whether your glove is made from synthetic or leather material before you begin.
How to Clean Smelly Golf Gloves
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Identify Glove Type | Synthetic or Leather |
| Washing Method | Hand- or Machine-Washable Gloves: Wash in the Sink with Cool Water and Mild Soap; Gloves that Cannot be Washed: Spot-Clean Dirty Areas |
| Drying Method | Air Dry; Do Not Machine Dry to Avoid Shrinkage |
| Storage | Store in a Breathable Bag or Locker to Air Out and Dry |
| Cleaning Products | Mild Liquid Soap, Liquid Fabric Softener, Saddle Soap, Dish Detergent, Dish Soap, Water, Towel |
| Glove Lifespan | High-Quality Glove: ~2 Years with Proper Care; Regular Replacement is Necessary |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the type of glove
Before you clean your golf gloves, it's important to identify the type of glove you have. This is because different types of gloves require different cleaning methods.
The most common types of golf gloves are made from leather, typically Cabretta leather, which is known for its soft and durable qualities. Leather gloves offer superior performance, with enhanced grip, comfort, feel, and control. They are the preferred choice of most golf professionals. However, leather gloves are not ideal for extremely wet conditions, as the material tends to decay quicker when exposed to moisture.
Synthetic golf gloves are another popular option. Synthetic materials, such as nylon and microfiber, offer durability and can withstand moisture better than leather gloves. Wet weather golf gloves, for example, are usually made from synthetic materials, which provide increased friction and grip in wet conditions. Synthetic gloves also come in various colours and designs, offering a stylish option for golfers.
Mesh gloves are also available, which are ideal for hot climates as they allow your hands to breathe. However, the grip offered by mesh gloves is usually below that of leather gloves, and some may find the feeling of the material uncomfortable.
Additionally, golfers can choose from a variety of specialised gloves designed for specific needs and preferences. For example, there are gloves designed for extreme heat that can better cope with sweat, as well as gloves that provide protection from the cold during winter rounds.
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Remove debris
Before washing your golf gloves, it is important to remove any debris. This can be done by gently shaking the gloves or using your hands to wipe away any loose dirt or debris. If there is visible dirt or debris on the gloves, you can use a soft brush to remove it. It is recommended to avoid using a standard golf club cleaning brush, even if it is soft, as it may damage the material of the glove.
Once the loose debris is removed, you can then focus on eliminating any remaining dirt or debris. This can be achieved by gently rubbing the gloves with a clean towel. Microfiber towels are particularly effective at removing perspiration. When wiping the gloves with a towel, be careful not to oversaturate them with moisture, as this can lead to a poor-fitting glove and painful blisters on your hand.
If your gloves are made of leather, it is important to take extra care. Most leather golf gloves are not washable, and continuous washing may wear out the leather. For washable leather gloves, use mild detergent and gently wash the gloves until all surface dirt and perspiration are removed. Avoid using warm or hot water, as this can cause the leather to shrink.
By removing debris and dirt from your golf gloves, you will not only improve their appearance but also maintain their performance and longevity.
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Soak in a soap solution
Before cleaning your golf gloves, it is important to identify the type of glove you have. Synthetic gloves can be washed in a machine, but leather gloves cannot be washed in the same way and should be cleaned with saddle soap and warm water.
If you are going to soak your golf gloves in a soap solution, first fill your sink with cool water. Add two tablespoons of a mild, moisturising liquid soap to the water. You can also add one tablespoon of liquid fabric softener to the solution to help remove odours and keep your gloves soft.
Place your gloves in the water and swirl them around. You can use your hand to agitate the soap in the water, allowing the motion to remove dirt particles and sweat. Soak your gloves for around 20 minutes. After soaking, place your hands under the water and wipe the gloves.
If your gloves are made of leather, you can clean them with just water and a dry towel, as this type of leather does not retain dirt. However, you can also use saddle soap and warm water to clean leather gloves without damaging them or leaving behind a smell.
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Air-dry
First, it is important to gently remove excess water from your gloves. You can do this by patting the gloves dry with a clean towel. Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible by patting, not twisting or wringing, as this can misshape the gloves.
Next, find a suitable place for air-drying. Choose a cool, shaded area with good air circulation, avoiding direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the gloves to fade, dry out, or crack, especially if they are made of leather. If you are air-drying leather gloves, you can stuff them with newspaper to help retain their shape as they dry.
Allow the gloves to air dry completely before storing them. This may take several hours or even a full day, depending on the climate and humidity. Be patient and ensure they are fully dry to prevent the growth of bacteria and mildew.
Finally, store your gloves properly when they are completely dry. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Store them in a breathable bag or container designed for golf gloves, ensuring they are not stuffed into a pocket or bag where they can be crushed.
By following these steps, you can effectively air-dry your golf gloves, ensuring they remain clean, odour-free, and in good condition for an extended period.
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Store in a breathable bag
To ensure your golf gloves are stored correctly, it is important to let them air dry before placing them in a breathable bag. This will help to prevent the build-up of moisture, which can cause deterioration and odours.
Golf gloves should be laid flat when stored, mimicking the original packaging shape. This helps to maintain their shape and structure. It is also recommended to keep them in a sealed bag, such as a Ziploc bag, to protect them from dirt and debris.
Breathable bags with mesh venting are ideal for storing golf gloves as they allow air circulation, keeping the gloves dry and crisp. This type of storage can prolong the life of your gloves by preventing the build-up of moisture, which can lead to deterioration and odours.
There are various golf glove storage bags available on the market, such as the Stripebird Golf Performance Gloves Holder Case, which features a moisture-free storage design and includes a golf bag clip for convenience. This case has breathable mesh and can hold one to two gloves, making it a popular choice among golfers.
By following these storage tips and investing in a breathable bag, you can effectively maintain the condition and prolong the life of your golf gloves.
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Frequently asked questions
Fill your sink with cool water and add 2 tablespoons of mild, moisturising liquid soap. You can also add a tablespoon of liquid fabric softener to remove odours and keep your gloves soft. Soak your gloves for 20 minutes, then wipe them off.
Take a small amount of soap and water on a brush and start scrubbing the glove, focusing on areas with visible dirt. Keep dipping the brush in the water and scrubbing until the dirt comes off. Wipe the glove if it's getting too wet.
Take your gloves off immediately after playing and store them in a breathable bag or locker to air out and dry. You can also treat leather gloves with a leather conditioner or rain sealer to prevent smells from developing.
