Glove Care

Brush off loose dirt and dust, then wipe the glove with a slightly damp cloth. For tougher dirt, use a small amount of leather cleaner or a conditioner that cleans, like Rawlings Glovolium. Let the glove dry naturally, then apply a thin coat of glove conditioner to restore the leather. Never soak a glove or put it in the washing machine.

1. Clean the glove first so you don’t rub dirt into the leather.

2. Apply a small amount on a soft cloth, not directly on the glove.

3. Rub it in with circular motions, focusing on the pocket, palm and areas that look dry.

4. Wipe off any excess and let the glove rest overnight with a ball in the pocket.

A Wilson A2000 Glove Care Kit includes everything you need to get started.

Sweat is the main cause. After each use, let the glove air out with the hand opening exposed instead of zipping it straight into a bag. Wipe the inside lining with a slightly damp cloth and let it dry fully. Wearing a batting glove inside your fielding glove also absorbs sweat and keeps the lining cleaner.

Cracks are a sign the leather has dried out. Condition the glove right away to stop the damage from spreading, and apply small amounts regularly afterward. Deep cracks can’t be fully repaired, but keeping the leather moisturized will extend the glove’s life.

Yes. Stiff steerhide gloves, like Heart of the Hide or A2000, handle richer conditioners and oils well. Softer kip leather, like Rawlings Pro Preferred, needs lighter products in smaller amounts so it doesn’t get too soft. Synthetic and youth gloves need very little: a wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough.