Keep Your Lacrosse Gear Clean With These 15 TipsKeep Your Lacrosse Gear Clean With These 15 Tips
Wash Pads Regularly After Practices and Games
As a lacrosse player, keeping your gear clean should be a top priority. Pads in particular can harbor bacteria and odors if not washed regularly. After every practice or game, be sure to wipe down or rinse your pads before letting them air dry. Using a mild detergent and warm water, give your pads a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. Scrubbing with a brush can help remove built up dirt and grime. Allow plenty of time for pads to dry completely before storing or wearing again. Rotating between sets of pads allows each set to dry fully before the next use. Proper pad hygiene will help optimize performance, extend gear lifespan and support team health.
Use a Mild Detergent and Warm Water for Pads
When it’s time to give your lacrosse pads a thorough cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives. Instead, use a gentle detergent or soap, diluted in warm water. Soaking pads in this solution allows the detergent to penetrate and loosen dirt. Use a soft brush to gently scrub spots as needed. Rinse pads thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of soap residue. Detergent buildup on gear can lead to skin irritation. Mild, dilute detergent protects pad materials while lifting away grime for fresh, sanitized gear. Being selective about cleaning agents will help pads last longer.
Air Dry Pads, Don’t Put in Dryer
After washing lacrosse pads, resist the temptation to expedite drying time in the clothes dryer. The intense heat can actually damage pads, causing the materials to warp, shrink or deform. Air drying is best. Hang pads in a well-ventilated spot out of direct sunlight, or lay flat to dry. Rotate between multiple sets of pads to allow sufficient drying time. Damp gear can breed mold and bacteria. For total peace of mind, consider using a fan to speed air circulation during the drying process. Take care to dry all surfaces, including underneath straps. With some extra planning, air dried pads will be perfectly prepped for the next practice.
Use a Mild Detergent and Warm Water for Pads
Harsh soaps and cleaners may seem like the best way to scrub caked-on dirt and grime off your lacrosse pads, but they can actually damage the materials and shorten gear lifespan. Instead, dissolve a small amount of gentle, phosphate-free detergent or soap flakes into a basin of warm water. Allow pads to soak for 15-20 minutes, agitating and brushing lightly to help the solution permeate into the pads’ nooks and crannies. The warm water will loosen debris while the mild detergent lifts dirt without stripping or fading the fabrics. Thoroughly rinse pads clean of any soap residue that could lead to skin irritation. Take care to completely remove detergent from areas like straps that contact your body directly. A mild approach lets you sanitize pads safely and extend their usefulness over many seasons.
Air Dry Pads, Don’t Put in Dryer
After meticulously cleaning your lacrosse pads, it’s crucial not to undo your work by improperly drying them. Machine drying may seem convenient, but the extreme heat can damage pads by causing shrinkage, warping or cracking. Instead, lay pads flat or hang to air dry fully before your next practice. Rotate between multiple sets to allow adequate time for thorough air drying. Position pads out of direct sunlight to prevent sun damage. Consider using a fan to accelerate evaporation, taking care to dry all surfaces including the undersides of straps. Proper air drying takes more time and planning than machine drying, but it’s essential to safely clean and extend the life of your lacrosse pads.
Sanitize Helmets and Gloves Periodically
In addition to keeping pads clean, lacrosse helmets and gloves need regular sanitizing too. After each use, wipe inside helmet pads with disinfecting wipes to kill bacteria and control odors. Periodically use a helmet spray sanitizer inside and out. For gloves, hand wash after each practice and game using mild soap and let air dry fully. Once a week, do a deeper clean by filling gloves with warm water and gentle detergent to soak pads and scrub away ingrained dirt. Rinse thoroughly. Sanitize wrist straps, palms and finger pads with disinfecting wipes. Rotate between multiple helmets and gloves to allow proper drying time. Consistent cleaning habits keep gear fresh, help prevent skin infections and allergic reactions and extend the usable life of expensive equipment.
Use Disinfecting Wipes on Helmet Interior
The Science of Soap: Choosing the Right Detergent for Lacrosse Gear
When it comes to cleaning lacrosse equipment, the choice of detergent can make a significant difference. But why is a mild detergent preferable, and what should you look for when selecting one?
Mild detergents are ideal because they effectively clean without damaging the materials used in lacrosse gear. These detergents are typically free from harsh chemicals and abrasives that could break down padding, weaken stitching, or cause discoloration.
Key Features of an Ideal Lacrosse Gear Detergent
- pH-neutral formula
- Free from phosphates and bleach
- Gentle on fabrics and skin
- Effective at removing odors
- Rinses clean without leaving residue
Using the right detergent ensures that your gear gets clean without compromising its integrity. This approach not only preserves your equipment but also prevents potential skin irritations that can occur from detergent buildup on pads and other gear.
The Art of Drying: Why Air Drying Trumps Machine Drying for Lacrosse Gear
After washing your lacrosse gear, the drying process is just as crucial as the cleaning itself. But why is air drying so strongly recommended over using a machine dryer?
Machine dryers expose lacrosse gear to intense heat, which can cause significant damage. The high temperatures can lead to warping, shrinking, or deformation of pads and other equipment. This damage not only reduces the effectiveness of the gear but can also shorten its lifespan considerably.
Benefits of Air Drying Lacrosse Gear
- Preserves the shape and integrity of pads
- Prevents heat-related damage to materials
- Allows for thorough drying of all surfaces
- Reduces the risk of mold and bacteria growth
- Extends the overall lifespan of the equipment
To air dry effectively, hang your gear in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. If possible, use a fan to increase air circulation and speed up the drying process. Remember to rotate the gear to ensure all surfaces dry completely, including the undersides of straps and hard-to-reach areas.
Helmet Hygiene: Effective Sanitization Techniques for Lacrosse Headgear
Lacrosse helmets require special attention when it comes to cleaning and sanitization. Given their close contact with your head and face, maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. But what’s the most effective way to keep your helmet clean and odor-free?
A two-pronged approach works best for helmet maintenance: regular quick cleans after each use and periodic deep sanitization. After every practice or game, use disinfecting wipes to clean the interior padding, focusing on areas that come into direct contact with your skin, such as the forehead, chin, and back-of-head pads.
Deep Cleaning Protocol for Lacrosse Helmets
- Remove any detachable padding.
- Use a helmet-specific sanitizing spray on both the interior and exterior.
- Allow the spray to sit for the recommended time to effectively kill bacteria.
- Wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- Air dry completely before reassembling and using.
This comprehensive cleaning routine not only keeps your helmet fresh but also helps prevent skin infections and extends the life of your headgear. Remember to perform this deep clean at least once a month, or more frequently during intense playing seasons.
Glove Care: Preserving Performance and Preventing Odors
Lacrosse gloves are prone to accumulating sweat, dirt, and bacteria due to their constant contact with your hands and the playing environment. How can you effectively clean and maintain your gloves to ensure peak performance and hygiene?
The key to glove care lies in regular cleaning and proper drying. After each use, hand wash your gloves with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pay special attention to the palm area and between the fingers where sweat and bacteria tend to accumulate.
Weekly Deep Clean for Lacrosse Gloves
- Fill gloves with warm water and mild detergent.
- Gently massage the solution into the padding.
- Use a soft brush to scrub away ingrained dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
- Squeeze out excess water without wringing.
- Reshape gloves and air dry away from direct heat.
For added freshness, use disinfecting wipes on the wrist straps, palms, and finger pads. This not only controls odors but also helps maintain the grip and feel of your gloves, crucial for optimal performance on the field.
The Rotation Strategy: Maximizing Gear Lifespan and Hygiene
One often overlooked aspect of lacrosse gear maintenance is the practice of rotating equipment. But why is rotating your gear so important, and how can it benefit your game?
Rotating between multiple sets of pads, gloves, and even helmets allows each piece of equipment adequate time to dry completely between uses. This practice is crucial in preventing the growth of bacteria and mold, which thrive in damp environments.
Benefits of Gear Rotation
- Ensures complete drying between uses
- Reduces bacterial and fungal growth
- Extends the overall lifespan of equipment
- Allows for more thorough cleaning routines
- Provides backup gear in case of damage or excessive wear
Implementing a rotation system might require an initial investment in additional gear, but the long-term benefits in terms of hygiene, gear longevity, and performance make it a worthwhile strategy for serious lacrosse players.
Beyond Cleaning: Preventative Measures for Lacrosse Gear Maintenance
While regular cleaning is essential, taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of necessary cleanings. What steps can lacrosse players take to minimize gear contamination and odor buildup?
One of the most effective preventative measures is proper post-game or practice care. Immediately after playing, air out your gear instead of stuffing it into a bag. This simple step can drastically reduce moisture retention and bacterial growth.
Additional Preventative Strategies
- Use moisture-wicking undergarments to reduce sweat absorption in pads
- Apply anti-microbial sprays to gear before and after use
- Store equipment in a cool, dry place with good air circulation
- Use gear bags with ventilation features to promote airflow
- Regularly inspect gear for signs of wear and replace as needed
By incorporating these preventative measures into your routine, you can maintain cleaner, fresher gear with less effort, allowing you to focus more on improving your game and less on equipment maintenance.
Wash Pads Regularly After Practices and Games
As a lacrosse player, keeping your gear clean should be a top priority. Pads in particular can harbor bacteria and odors if not washed regularly. After every practice or game, be sure to wipe down or rinse your pads before letting them air dry. Using a mild detergent and warm water, give your pads a more thorough cleaning at least once a week. Scrubbing with a brush can help remove built up dirt and grime. Allow plenty of time for pads to dry completely before storing or wearing again. Rotating between sets of pads allows each set to dry fully before the next use. Proper pad hygiene will help optimize performance, extend gear lifespan and support team health.
Use a Mild Detergent and Warm Water for Pads
When it’s time to give your lacrosse pads a thorough cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives. Instead, use a gentle detergent or soap, diluted in warm water. Soaking pads in this solution allows the detergent to penetrate and loosen dirt. Use a soft brush to gently scrub spots as needed. Rinse pads thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of soap residue. Detergent buildup on gear can lead to skin irritation. Mild, dilute detergent protects pad materials while lifting away grime for fresh, sanitized gear. Being selective about cleaning agents will help pads last longer.
Air Dry Pads, Don’t Put in Dryer
After washing lacrosse pads, resist the temptation to expedite drying time in the clothes dryer. The intense heat can actually damage pads, causing the materials to warp, shrink or deform. Air drying is best. Hang pads in a well-ventilated spot out of direct sunlight, or lay flat to dry. Rotate between multiple sets of pads to allow sufficient drying time. Damp gear can breed mold and bacteria. For total peace of mind, consider using a fan to speed air circulation during the drying process. Take care to dry all surfaces, including underneath straps. With some extra planning, air dried pads will be perfectly prepped for the next practice.
Use a Mild Detergent and Warm Water for Pads
Harsh soaps and cleaners may seem like the best way to scrub caked-on dirt and grime off your lacrosse pads, but they can actually damage the materials and shorten gear lifespan. Instead, dissolve a small amount of gentle, phosphate-free detergent or soap flakes into a basin of warm water. Allow pads to soak for 15-20 minutes, agitating and brushing lightly to help the solution permeate into the pads’ nooks and crannies. The warm water will loosen debris while the mild detergent lifts dirt without stripping or fading the fabrics. Thoroughly rinse pads clean of any soap residue that could lead to skin irritation. Take care to completely remove detergent from areas like straps that contact your body directly. A mild approach lets you sanitize pads safely and extend their usefulness over many seasons.
Air Dry Pads, Don’t Put in Dryer
After meticulously cleaning your lacrosse pads, it’s crucial not to undo your work by improperly drying them. Machine drying may seem convenient, but the extreme heat can damage pads by causing shrinkage, warping or cracking. Instead, lay pads flat or hang to air dry fully before your next practice. Rotate between multiple sets to allow adequate time for thorough air drying. Position pads out of direct sunlight to prevent sun damage. Consider using a fan to accelerate evaporation, taking care to dry all surfaces including the undersides of straps. Proper air drying takes more time and planning than machine drying, but it’s essential to safely clean and extend the life of your lacrosse pads.
Sanitize Helmets and Gloves Periodically
In addition to keeping pads clean, lacrosse helmets and gloves need regular sanitizing too. After each use, wipe inside helmet pads with disinfecting wipes to kill bacteria and control odors. Periodically use a helmet spray sanitizer inside and out. For gloves, hand wash after each practice and game using mild soap and let air dry fully. Once a week, do a deeper clean by filling gloves with warm water and gentle detergent to soak pads and scrub away ingrained dirt. Rinse thoroughly. Sanitize wrist straps, palms and finger pads with disinfecting wipes. Rotate between multiple helmets and gloves to allow proper drying time. Consistent cleaning habits keep gear fresh, help prevent skin infections and allergic reactions and extend the usable life of expensive equipment.
Use Disinfecting Wipes on Helmet Interior
After intense lacrosse practices and games, the interior padding of your helmet will be soaked in sweat. Wiping down helmet pads after each use with antibacterial wipes will help kill odor-causing bacteria before it has a chance to build up. Pay special attention to the forehead, chin and back-of-head pads that absorb the most moisture. Baby wipes work well for a quick clean, or use wipes made specifically for sports gear. Spraying helmet lining and vents with an antimicrobial spray periodically provides added protection. Let all interior surfaces dry completely before wearing again. Regular disinfecting wipes make it easy to keep your lacrosse helmet fresh and hygienic all season long.
Hand Wash Goalie Gloves After Each Use
As a lacrosse goalie, keeping gloves clean should be a top priority for performance and safety. After each game or practice, fill gloves with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Massage the solution into padding to dislodge dirt and soak sweat out of glove materials. Use a soft brush on high wear areas like palms. Drain dirty water and rinse gloves thoroughly. Hang open or lay flat to air dry completely before next use. Weekly, disinfect glove exteriors, wrist straps and lacing with antibacterial wipes. Rotate between multiple pairs to allow adequate drying time. Proper glove cleaning removes bacteria, improves grip and protects hands from infection. With consistent maintenance habits, goalie gloves can deliver season after season of reliable protection.
Use a Lacrosse Ball Washer for Hard to Reach Areas
While lacrosse pads and gloves can be washed effectively by hand, gear like helmets, arm guards and cleats have nooks and crannies that are hard to clean. A lacrosse ball washer can scrub these spots for you. Fill the washer with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Drop in arm guards, knee pads or a helmet, secure the lid and let the machine work its magic. The rolling action scrubs away dirt, grass stains and odor buildup. Rinse gear thoroughly after washing. Use disinfectant spray on helmets. Maintaining even difficult-to-clean lacrosse gear will support safety, hygiene and athletic performance all season long.
Soak Gloves in Warm Water and Detergent
Regularly washing lacrosse gloves helps remove dirt, grass stains, and bacteria that builds up with heavy use. Once a week, do a deep clean by filling each glove with warm water mixed with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or glove wash. Massage the solution into the padding, scrubbing high wear areas like palm and finger pads. Allow gloves to soak for 15-20 minutes so the detergent can fully penetrate. Empty out dirty water and rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed. Always air dry gloves fully, shape and allow several hours before wearing again. Disinfect laces, cuffs and outer material with antimicrobial wipes. Proper glove washing preserves grip, eliminates odors and helps protect hands from infection.
Rinse Gear Thoroughly to Avoid Residue Buildup
When cleaning lacrosse equipment, take care to rinse away all traces of soap or detergent residue. Leftover cleanser that remains embedded in gear materials can lead to skin irritation and allergic reactions. After washing pads, gloves or other equipment, thoroughly flush with clean water. Drain and repeat rinsing until water runs clear. Use a hose on full blast if needed to dislodge trapped residue in pad compartments or glove fingers. Wipe gear down with a clean, wet cloth. Allow ample time for complete air drying. Proper rinsing protects skin health and ensures your clean lacrosse gear stays comfortable practice after practice.
Remove Pads From Bag to Dry Completely
After washing your lacrosse pads, it’s important to let them dry fully before storing. Leaving damp pads sitting in your equipment bag provides the perfect conditions for odor-causing bacteria and mold to grow. Instead, remove all pads and lay them flat or hang to air dry completely after each washing. Use a fan to help speed evaporation. Rotate between multiple sets of pads to give each adequate drying time before practice. Never machine dry pads or attempt to accelerate drying with a hairdryer or other heat source. Allow 1-2 days of air drying time depending on humidity. With some planning ahead, you can keep your padding clean, dry and ready for the next big game.
Wash Bag Interior Regularly
In addition to washing individual lacrosse pads, helmets and gloves, don’t neglect your equipment bag itself. The bag’s interior harbors a mix of dirt, grass, and sweat that builds up over a season. Periodically remove all gear and wash the empty bag on a gentle cycle. Hang to dry fully before replacing equipment. Disinfect the interior by spraying with an antimicrobial solution and wiping down with clean cloths. Spot clean any visible stains. Leave bag unzipped whenever possible to allow airflow. Keeping your gear bag clean reduces odors and supports the performance and longevity of all your lacrosse equipment.
Replace Old Gear for Safety and Hygiene
No matter how diligent your lacrosse gear cleaning routine, equipment does wear out over time. Pads become compressed and lose protective ability. Gloves develop small tears that expose skin to injury. Helmet padding breaks down. Make it a habit to inspect your gear before each season and prior to important games. Check for cracked helmets, warped pads, damaged palm material on gloves and compromised laces or straps. Replace any item showing excessive wear. While quality lacrosse gear represents an investment, protecting yourself from injury and infection is priceless. Work with coaches and parents to ensure you’re always outfitted with safe, sanitary gear in good working order.
Check Gear for Rips or Tears
Before every lacrosse practice or game, do a quick safety check of all your gear. Look for any rips, holes or tears in your pads and gloves. Small splits can quickly expand into major defects that leave you vulnerable. Closely inspect pad straps for fraying or stretched out elastic that could cause slipping. Ensure gloves have no exposed padding or compromised palms. Get in the habit of doing a full walk-around when suiting up. Bring any concerning damage to the attention of coaches right away. Well-maintained lacrosse gear is essential for injury prevention. Take time for regular inspections and speak up about any needed repairs or replacements.
Keep Multiple Sets of Pads for Backup
Having at least two sets of lacrosse pads and gloves is ideal for proper cleaning and drying. While one set is in use during games or practice, the other can be thoroughly washed and given time to air dry before the next swap. Rotate each set on a weekly basis rather than waiting for gear to get excessively dirty. Always allow 1-2 full days of drying time between uses. Mark sets A and B to avoid confusion. Keep extra gloves on hand in case of mid-game tears or equipment failures. Having backups ready preserves hygiene, provides insurance if repairs are needed and ensures you never have to miss time on the field due to lack of preparedness.
Ask Coach for Gear Cleaning Tips
Caring for lacrosse equipment may seem intimidating, especially when first starting out. Your coaches are experts when it comes to proper gear maintenance and can provide plenty of useful advice. Ask for input on best practices for washing pads, gloves, bags and helmets. Get suggestions on mild cleansers and sanitizers that work well and won’t damage equipment. See if the team has resources like a ball washer to assist with deep cleaning. Coaches have seen it all and can offer troubleshooting if you encounter issues like skin irritation or lingering odors. Don’t be shy about requesting help – taking good care of your gear will make you a better, safer player.
Wash Bag Interior Regularly
While it’s easy to focus cleaning efforts on lacrosse pads, gloves and other gear, don’t overlook the buildup of dirt and bacteria inside equipment bags. After every few uses, turn the bag inside out and machine wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Be sure to entirely dry the interior before replacing gear. Spraying the lining with an antimicrobial solution provides added protection. Spot clean any visible stains immediately. Leave the bag open when not in use so air can circulate. Follow your nose – if you detect odors, it’s time for a wash. A clean bag helps equipment last longer and prevents gear from retaining odors. Proper bag care is a small effort that pays off all season long.
Check Gear for Rips or Tears
Inspecting lacrosse equipment before hitting the field is a must for safety. Look over all pads, gloves and other gear, watching for rips, holes or compromised straps. Small tears can quickly grow into major splits that leave you exposed. Gloves should have no padding poking out or palm slickness that could cause drops. Get in the habit of doing a full walk-around when suiting up. Point out any concerning damage to coaches right away. Don’t risk avoidable injury due to lack of preparation. Well-maintained gear provides essential protection all season long. Make inspections part of your pre-game ritual.
Keep Multiple Sets of Pads for Backup
Having backup lacrosse gear is a smart strategy for maintaining cleanliness and safety. Rotate between at least two sets of pads, gloves, and helmets so each has time to fully air dry after washing before use again. Mark sets A and B and establish a weekly switch routine. Always allow 1-2 days of drying time to prevent mold or bacterial growth. Keep extra gloves on hand in case of tears, equipment failure, or to replace excessively sweat-soaked sets during games. Backup gear ensures you always have a clean, dry set prepped and ready to go. The initial investment pays dividends over the life of quality lacrosse equipment.
Replace Old Gear for Safety and Hygiene
While it’s tempting to squeeze “just one more season” out of worn lacrosse equipment, old and damaged gear puts you at risk. Inspect items like pads, gloves and helmets closely before each year. Look for cracks, tears, compressed foam and degraded straps that indicate declining protective ability. Retire any helmet with faded exterior logos or interior padding that is packed down. Replace old gloves with compromised palms or failing fingertips. Don’t risk injury or infection – work with coaches and parents to phase out gear that is clearly past its prime. Your safety is worth the investment in new equipment that will perform reliably.
Ask Coach for Gear Cleaning Tips
Caring for lacrosse equipment can be daunting, especially when first starting out. Turn to coaches as invaluable resources for gear maintenance best practices. Ask about recommended cleaning products and procedures for pads, gloves, bags and helmets. Coaches can advise on effective, equipment-safe cleansers and sanitizers. See if the team owns helpful tools like ball washers for deep cleaning. Request troubleshooting tips for issues like lingering odors or skin irritation from gear. Drawing on years of experience, coaches have tons of wisdom to share about keeping equipment in top shape. Don’t hesitate to ask – their advice will help you become a smarter, better-prepared lacrosse player.
Wash Pads Regularly After Practices and Games
Don’t let sweat and dirt accumulate on your lacrosse pads. After each practice or game, give pads a quick rinse or wipe-down before letting them air dry completely. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wash pads more thoroughly at least once a week, scrubbing with a soft brush. Prompt pad washing prevents odor buildup and material degradation. Rotate between two sets to allow adequate drying time. Establish a pad cleaning routine early on. Keeping pads fresh maximizes performance, hygiene and safety all season long.
Use a Mild Detergent and Warm Water for Pads
When cleaning lacrosse pads, avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade materials prematurely. Instead, mix a small amount of gentle, phosphate-free detergent or mild soap flakes into warm water. Allow pads to soak in the solution, gently scrubbing with a soft brush to lift dirt from crevices. The warm water will loosen caked-on grime while the mild detergent gently lifts away perspiration and grass stains without damaging pads. Always rinse thoroughly to eliminate detergent residue that could irritate skin. With the proper techniques and products, you can effectively clean pads to maintain comfort, hygiene and safety all season.
Check Gear for Rips or Tears
Don’t take chances with damaged lacrosse equipment. Inspect all pads, gloves, bags and helmets closely before each use. Look for rips, loose padding, stretched-out elastic and compromised fasteners. Gloves should have no tears in palm material or exposed inner padding. Even small splits can quickly expand into major defects. Develop the habit of doing a full walk-around when gearing up. Bring any concerning damage to the attention of coaches right away. Don’t risk an injury that could have been prevented. Well-maintained gear is essential for your safety and performance.
Air Dry Pads, Don’t Put in Dryer
Resist the temptation to machine dry lacrosse pads, even if you’re in a hurry to get gear ready for the next game. The intense heat of dryers can damage pads by causing shrinkage, warping or brittleness. Instead, always air dry pads after washing. Lay pads flat or hang to dry fully before replacing in your bag. Use a fan to help speed air circulation if needed. Allow 1-2 days minimum for thorough drying. Rotate between multiple sets of pads to give each time to dry completely between practices and matches. Proper air drying takes more planning but is essential to safely clean and extend the lifespan of your lacrosse pads.
Replace Old Gear for Safety and Hygiene
While it’s natural to want to stretch the usefulness of expensive lacrosse gear, continuing to use damaged or degraded equipment poses risks. Before each season, inspect items closely for cracks, tears, compression and fading that indicate declining performance. Retire helmets with interior padding that is mashed down or won’t rebound. Replace gloves with failing palms and fingertips. Work with coaches and parents to phase out pads, bags and other gear that is clearly past its prime. Your health and safety are worth investing in new equipment that will protect you reliably.
Sanitize Helmets and Gloves Periodically
Regular sanitizing is key for lacrosse helmets and gloves. After each use, wipe helmet interior with disinfecting wipes to control bacteria. Periodically spray helmets inside and out with an antimicrobial solution for added protection. For gloves, do a deep hand wash at least weekly using mild soap and rinse thoroughly. Disinfect wrist straps, palms and fingers with wipes before each use. Consistent sanitizing removes grime buildup, eliminates odors and helps prevent skin infections or reactions to gear. Maintaining proper hygiene standards for all your equipment keeps you performing and feeling your best.
Wash Bag Interior Regularly
Make sure to regularly wash the interior of your lacrosse gear bag as part of your cleaning routine. After a few uses, turn the bag inside out and machine wash on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. Allow ample time for complete air drying before replacing equipment inside. Spot treat any visible stains immediately. An antimicrobial spray can help eliminate lingering odors. Leaving the bag unzipped when possible allows ventilation. A clean bag prevents cross-contamination and foul smells. Don’t neglect this simple step for total gear maintenance.
Ask Coach for Gear Cleaning Tips
Caring for lacrosse equipment can seem daunting, but your coaches are great resources for tips. Ask for their recommendations on effective, equipment-safe cleansers for pads, gloves, bags and helmets. See if the team has handy tools like ball washers to assist with deep cleaning pads. Request advice on proper maintenance procedures and best practices. Coaches can provide troubleshooting if issues like skin irritation arise. With years of experience under their belts, coaches have plenty of wisdom to impart about keeping gear performing at its best. Don’t hesitate to ask questions – their insights will help you become a smarter, better prepared athlete.
Keep Multiple Sets of Pads for Backup
Having at least two sets of lacrosse pads, gloves and helmets makes it easier to keep gear clean and undamaged. While one set is in use, another can be washed and dried fully. Mark items clearly as set A or B and rotate weekly. Always allow 1-2 days minimum between uses for thorough air drying. Keep extra gloves on hand in case of mid-game tears. Backup gear ensures you always have a functional set ready to go. The initial investment pays off in convenience, hygiene and safety all season long.
