As a rule, playing baseball requires less equipment than other sports, such as football and hockey. However, when you are not cautious with your use and maintenance, the expense of replacing and repairing the gear can quickly build up. To avoid this below is a compiled list of some locker-room upkeep suggestions.

Cleats

Whether you’re sliding into a center field or coming up with a play worthy of a viral video on the field, practicing baseball involves getting your spikes dirty and grass-stained. Having to clean cleats afterward is also a vital part of the game. It is also important to note that you should never wash cleats in a washing machine. Don’t put them close to a heater or vent or use a hairdryer when drying them.

Care and Washing Guidelines

Following these steps will help you learn how to keep cleats clean.

1. Remove your cleats from the dugout to avoid damaging them on tough surfaces like sidewalks or concrete. Remove any excess grass, dirt, and mud from the soles of your shoes by striking them together.
2. Use a toothbrush to clean your cleats on the dry side. Also, use a toothbrush, water, and a laundry detergent mixture to remove any last traces of grime and staining.
3. Rinse with a warm, wet washcloth to remove soap and suds.
4. Make sure they are completely dry before storing. Odors are created when there is too much moisture for an extended period.
5. Remove the insoles. Using a wash bag, wash the laces and insoles. This will help remove any lingering odors.

Gloves

1. Manufacturers’ guide

First and foremost, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly. There are many different ways to maintain gloves, and many of them can be provided by specific brands. Some gloves are made of specific materials and thus have their cleaning and conditioning instructions.

2. Shape and Reshape

You can maintain a glove’s shape with this method. It would be best to reshape once a season minimally, as recommended by experts. Some players are so adamant about it that they do it night after night. Although your sense of touch with the glove can influence how often you should wash them.

3. Check Laces and Tie-Downs

Your glove’s ties and laces are an essential part of its functionality. Regularly keeping an eye on and adjusting your laces is essential. The entire glove could be rendered useless when one lace breaks.

You can easily inspect the glove’s knots and web by verifying the knots’ strength and tightness with your fingers before using them in the game. Make sure to get gloves repaired as soon as you notice any problems

4. Protect the interior 

The glove’s interior inhabits dirt, sweat, and bacteria as our hands get dirty and sweaty during the game. Wearing a smaller or lighter glove inside the baseball glove is easy to keep the glove’s interior clean. Wipe down the interior of the glove after each use. Ensure the opening is kept dry and void of any remaining dirt, as it could help get rid of the odor.