Investing money in baseball’s new glove, people spend a lot of money to purchase high-quality branding gloves. Still, after a few times, they damage the gloves because they don’t maintain them regularly and waste all their money. why?
A baseball glove is not just a piece of equipment but rather a reliable companion on the field. Over time, leather gloves can become dry, stiff, and cracked, reducing their performance and lifespan.
At this time oiling is good for gloves last but many people need to learn how to maintain the gloves, otherwise, they will lose their gloves and money.
This article will explain the importance of oiling a baseball glove. We will also provide a guide on how to oil a baseball glove and discuss which oils are suitable and which are harmful to your glove.
Why is oiling important for baseball gloves?
Baseball gloves are made of leather, over time, leather gloves can become dry, stiff, and cracked, so applying the oil keeps your glove long-lasting.
Additionally, This helps to preserve the leather, keeping it flexible prevents it from becoming dry, stiff, and cracking.
Regular oiling is important for maintaining the shape of the glove’s pocket which is necessary for effective ball catching.
Regular oiling is essential for protecting leather baseball gloves from sunlight damage and unpleasant odors.
How to Oil a Baseball Gloves? Step-by-Step Guide
Oiling a baseball glove is not a technical issue but many beginners don’t know how to oil the baseball gloves, so below follow the easy steps and ready your gloves for the new season.
Step 01: Choose The Right Oil
The main step in this procedure is choosing the oil. Many beginners use vegetable oil or motor oil. This product is good for breaking in your glove but is not recommended.
Glove manufacturing company provides good oil and conditioners for leather gloves. Rawlings Glovolium, Wilson Pro Stock Glove Conditioner, Rhino Wax, and Sarna Baseball Oil are popular oils and conditioners for good leather gloves.
You can purchase these products at good sporting stores or Amazon.
Step 02: Clean The Glove
Before applying the glove oil you must be sure your glove is clean. Suppose any dirt or debris on the gloves is removed first with a soft brush or cloth. Make sure before applying the oiling that your glove is dry.
Step 03: Applying The Oil
After cleaning the glove, the main thing to apply the oil on the baseball glove is the oil quantity. If you apply too much oil the glove leather will be too soft and lose shape.
It’s best to start with a small amount of oil in the glove and increase it gradually. You can always add more oil, but it’s challenging to remove excess. To apply the oil, use a soft or clean cloth and rub it onto the glove.
If you apply glove oil directly, then your high chance makes the gloves heavier and lose their shape.
Step 04: Focus Key Area
Apply oil all over the glove, including webbing and lacing. Concentrate on the pocket, the fingers, and the palm, as these areas endure the most stress during use.
Leave the glove to absorb the oil for 5-10 mins, then check key areas. Repeat if necessary.
Step 05: Dry Process
After oiling the glove you make sure to dry it completely. So if any excess oil remains wipe down the clean cloth and make sure no globs of oil are left.
Any remaining moisture can cause mold and mildew to form, which is unappealing and harmful to leather gloves.
So leave your glove at least 24 hours at room temperature and make sure the place is dry and cool. If you dry the glove in a dryer or heater it can cause the glove to crack, and avoid leaving it in direct sunlight.
If you want to dry your gloves quickly, it causes the glove to crack, so be patient and after 24 hours check the glove and make sure it’s completely dry otherwise repeat it if necessary.
Step 06:Playing Catch(Optional)
The last and final step is playing catch, playing catch is an essential step in breaking a baseball glove. It helps mold the glove to the shape of your hand and creates a comfortable pocket for catching and fielding.
Tips for Oiling a Baseball Glove
If you want to oil the baseball glove and your glove safely is not damaged for any reason follow below:
- Always follow the glove instructions and pick the right oil or conditioner.
- Don’t use household oil like vegetable oil or motor oil.
- Make sure to always use the oil limited, not overdo it.
- Keep in mind to always store in a cool and dry place.
- Don’t put your glove for drying on the microwave or car.
- Always dry your gloves at room temperature and cool or dry place and don’t leave them in direct sunlight.
Breaking for New Baseball or Softball Gloves
If you’ve recently purchased a new baseball or softball glove and need to break it, follow this step-by-step guide to prepare your glove for the field.
The best method to break in a new baseball or softball glove is playing catch. This method is recommended by manufacturing companies and experts, and the main thing about this method is that your gloves are safe. This method is time-consuming.
On the other hand, many players want to break the gloves in quickly so they are performing the other methods to break the glove but these methods are not safe for your gloves and it’s not recommended.
FAQs
How do MLB players condition their gloves?
MLB players often use shaving cream or specialized glove conditioners to break in and soften their gloves. They apply a thin layer, work it into the glove’s pocket and webbing, and then use the glove during practice to help mold it to their liking.
What is the difference between glove conditioner and oil?
Glove conditioner is a cream or gel designed to soften and break in a baseball glove, promoting flexibility. Glove oil, on the other hand, is a liquid substance that aims to moisturize and protect the leather, enhancing durability. While both serve similar purposes, they have different textures and application methods.
Can mink oil be used on baseball gloves?
Yes, mink oil can be used on baseball gloves to soften and condition the leather. However, it’s important to use it sparingly, as excessive application may over-soften the leather and affect the glove’s structure.
Can you use baby oil on leather gloves?
Using baby oil on leather gloves is not recommended. Baby oil can over-soften the leather and cause it to break down over time. It may also lead to a slippery or greasy feel. It’s better to use products specifically designed for baseball glove conditioning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oiling a baseball glove is a crucial step in maintaining its longevity and performance but many new players don’t know “how to oil a baseball glove”
Choose the oil that the manufacturing company recommends apply this to the glove and make sure not to overdo it, and always dry at room temperature.
So I hope this article has helped you with oiling baseball and softball gloves. Cheer!
