A baseball glove must be broken in and oiled to guarantee absolute comfort when being used. This is also a crucial part of the glove’s maintenance routine to make sure that the leather stays soft and durable.
A baseball glove is an investment and must be deemed as such. Oiling it allows you to make the most out of it by improving its functionality and longevity. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to oil a baseball glove.
Contents
What You Need to Oil a Baseball Glove
- Baseball glove oil
- Soft cloth
- A ball (optional)
How to Oil Your Baseball Glove
Step 1: Choosing The Oil
There are countless types of oil for leather, but you must use a specific oil for baseball gloves. The oil for baseball glove leather improves the strength and durability of the material. This allows the glove to withstand the strong hits of baseball batters. The glove will also be able to catch a ball at high speed without cracking or breaking.
The best oil for baseball gloves is one that not only conditions but also cleans without leaving stains. Avoid oils that are filled with synthetic and harmful chemicals as these additives can further the destruction of your gloves. High-quality oils feature natural ingredients. These include mink oil, beeswax, and pine tar.
Step 2: Apply The Oil
There may be specific application instructions that you can find on the packaging of the oil of your choosing. Generally, apply a small amount of oil to the baseball glove. Rub the product into the glove using a soft cloth. Use gentle and circular motions while applying some pressure.
Pay attention to the crevices to specifically target these areas. Make sure to continuously rub so that there won’t be areas that will dry sooner than the others. This ensures an even finish without staining.
Some oils may be applied with your bare hands. However, this might trigger allergies or cause stains. Soft cotton or dishcloth should work well.
Step 3: Let The Oil Dry
After a layer or two, allow the glove to fully dry. Place the glove in a well-ventilated area away from any form of heat. Let it sit overnight so that the oil will fully soak into the leather. After twenty-four hours, wipe any excess oil with cotton or dishcloth.
Step 4: Use The Glove
This step ensures that you fully break in your baseball glove. The best way to do this is to play with the baseball glove for a few minutes each day for weeks. This gradually softens the leather and allows the glove to fit better on your hand.
The crevice in which you catch the ball is called a pocket. This should form after a few weeks of continuous usage. It should follow the natural contours of your hand and make the glove custom-fit to your needs.
If you do not have time to play baseball every single day, another option is to leave the glove with a ball. Fold the glove over the ball and then tightly seal this with a rope. This allows the glove to adjust around the ball’s shape so that it can form a pocket.
Other Maintenance Tips
Aside from oiling your gloves, another excellent maintenance tip is to regularly clean them. This prevents the buildup of dirt and dust which may stain and damage your baseball glove. Simply wipe down your glove with a clean rag after using it for a day.
If your hands sweat while you use the glove, then it is a good idea to air it out. Place the glove in a well-ventilated area and leave it there overnight. Avoid direct sunlight and sources of heat as these could deform your glove.
Another cleaning tip is to use a leather cleaner. Simply apply a thin layer and then rub it all over the glove using a clean piece of cloth. There are leather cleaners specifically designed for baseball gloves. Note that petroleum-based cleaners may do more harm than good.
Most leather cleaners must be applied at least once a year. Too much of the product can dehydrate your glove and cause the leather to break.
Why Should You Oil Your Baseball Glove
All items made of genuine leather typically require some form of maintenance to keep them in top shape. Leather is a tricky material since it easily dries up and cracks, which then renders your items useless at a faster rate compared to when you take the time to properly maintain them. This rule likewise applies to baseball gloves. You can learn more about how to properly dry wet a baseball glove here.
Oiling a baseball glove is just one of the many maintenance practices to apply so that the glove will stay in its top shape. The oil hydrates the leather so that it will not crack or degrade. It lubricates all areas to keep it flexible and able to adapt to constant usage.
Final Thoughts
Did you like our simple tutorial on how to oil a baseball glove? Do you have any other tips that you would like to share with our readers? Feel free to comment on our article and share this with anyone you know who might benefit from this guide.
These tips are proven and tested. They will help you break in your baseball glove and ensure that it will last for a very long time. Knowing how to oil an old baseball glove can also revitalize it and give it new life.
A powerful swing and the ball is flying across the field, just one hit, and we might never forget the thrill it brings. I do not know about you, but I never do. Every baseball game is the chance to compete with others and cooperate with your teammate. It is among my biggest passions.
