How do you store a baseball glove in the winter?
When it comes to storing your glove in the winter, there are a few steps that you should follow every year to keep your glove in perfect playing condition:
- Clean and prep the glove. Before storing your glove for the winter, make sure it is clean and dry. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the glove, and then stuff it with newspaper to help it hold its shape. If needed, coat the glove in a thin layer of glove conditioner.
- Use a glove mallet. If your glove has become misshapen during the playing season, you can use a glove mallet to gently reshape it before storing it away. Place the glove on a flat surface and then use the mallet to tap it back into shape.
- Protect the glove from pests. Mice and other pests can damage your glove if they get to it, so make sure to store it in a place where it is safe and secured.
- Avoid using plastic bags. Many players think that a plastic bag will keep your glove clean and dry, but it can actually cause your leather to become stiff and brittle over time. Instead, you should use a breathable bag, or wrap the glove in a soft cloth cover to protect it during storage.
- Avoid extreme temperatures. Don’t store your glove in a place that is too hot or too cold. Extreme temperatures can also cause a glove to become dry and brittle, and as such, a cool, dry closet is a good place to keep your glove in the off season.