Quickly Drying Your Baseball Glove
Drying a baseball glove quickly after it has become wet is important to prevent the leather from becoming stiff or moldy. However, it’s crucial to follow the proper steps to ensure the glove’s longevity and performance is not compromised. Here’s a step-by-step guide to do it properly and safely.
Step 1: Remove Excess Moisture
Before anything else, you need to get rid of as much moisture as you can without applying heat:
- Use a clean, absorbent towel to gently blot the glove. Avoid rubbing the glove too harshly, as this can damage the leather.
- Press on the glove’s padding and leather to squeeze out water. Make sure to do this gently to maintain the glove’s shape.
- Open the glove and lay it flat to expose as much surface area as possible for drying.
Step 2: Air Drying
After removing the surface moisture, air drying is the next step:
- Place the glove in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the color of your glove and break down the leather.
- If possible, use a fan to circulate the air around the glove. As the air moves, it will help evaporate the remaining moisture from the glove.
- Ensure that the glove is open and the fingers are separated to maximize the airflow through all parts of the glove.
Step 3: Applying Conditioner
Once your glove feels dry to the touch (which could still mean slightly damp inside), you should condition it:
- Use a leather conditioner designed for baseball gloves. This will help to soften the leather and prevent it from becoming brittle.
- Apply a small amount of the conditioner to a clean cloth and work it into the leather gently.
- Don’t overdo it with the conditioner; a little goes a long way. Too much can make the glove heavy and overly soft.
Cautions
There are certain methods of drying you should always avoid to protect your glove:
- Do not use direct heat: Avoid hair dryers, radiators, or any other direct heat sources, as these can warp and damage the leather.
- No microwaves or ovens: Despite some myths, never attempt to dry a baseball glove in a microwave or oven. This can ruin the glove.
Final Checks
Once the glove is dry:
- Check the glove’s shape and fit. The drying process can sometimes alter these slightly, so make some catches to ensure that the glove has retained its broken-in feel.
- Inspect the leather for any signs of cracking or dryness and re-apply conditioner if needed, but sparingly.
Remember, a good baseball glove can last many years if treated correctly. Patience is key. While it can be tempting to rush the drying process, especially if you have a game coming up, it’s better for the health and longevity of your glove to let it dry gradually.