Using Hex Performance Laundry Detergent for Thorough Cleaning of Lacrosse Pads
Lacrosse pads can take a real beating during practices and games. All that sweat, dirt, and grass stains can leave them smelling rotten and make them unsafe to wear. That’s why it’s so important to clean lacrosse pads thoroughly on a regular basis. The best way to get pads squeaky clean is to soak them in a solution of Hex Performance laundry detergent.
Hex Performance detergent is specially formulated to cut through tough odors, deep set stains, and caked-on gunk. The powerful enzymes go to work breaking down residues from sweat, body oils, and soil. The surfactants help lift deposits from the pad’s nooks and crannies so you don’t just clean the surface. And Hex contains whitening agents to help restore brightness to discolored pads.
When soaking pads in a Hex Performance solution, let them sit for at least an hour. This gives the detergent time to fully penetrate the padding material and mesh. For really dirty pads, let them soak overnight. If you notice any stubborn stains after soaking, take a soft bristle brush and gently scrub the affected areas before rinsing. The agitation will help loosen the bonds so the grime washes away.
Once done soaking, rinse the pads very thoroughly until the water runs clear. You want to remove every trace of detergent residue, which could lead to skin irritation. After rinsing, let the pads air dry completely before storing or wearing them. Remaining moisture could allow mildew to take hold.
By using the right laundry detergent and taking the time to soak pads, you can keep your lacrosse gear fresh and sanitary. Hex Performance contains top-tier cleaning agents tailored for athletic apparel. Follow these soaking steps consistently after each use, and your pads will stay odor-free and ready for action on the field. Investing in the proper care will extend the life of your pads and protect your investment.
Allowing Ample Time for Thorough Soaking and Loosening of Dirt on Lacrosse Pads
When it comes to keeping lacrosse pads clean, one of the most important steps is allowing enough time for a thorough soaking in detergent. Rushing the soak means you won’t fully dissolve the layers of accumulated sweat, body oils, grass stains, and mud that build up on pads after repeated uses.
For the best results, pads need to soak for at least an hour in the laundry detergent solution. This gives the cleaners time to fully penetrate the padding material, exterior vinyl or leather, and mesh lining. The detergent can seep into all the nooks and crannies, breaking apart the dirt and lifting it from the surface. If your pads are especially fouled with caked-on grunge, let them soak overnight to really loosen the bonds.
During the soak, you may notice the water becoming discolored as the grime releases from the pads. This is a sign that the detergent is actively working to dissolve the contaminants and suspend them so they can be rinsed away. If the soak water remains clear, your pads may not be getting fully cleaned.
While soaking alone will remove a good portion of the buildup, you can further help the process by gently massaging or squeezing the pads underwater. This agitation helps drive the detergent deeper into the material to cut through stubborn oil and dirt residues. Just don’t wring or twist the pads too harshly, as this could damage the structural integrity.
Once done soaking, be sure to rinse the pads thoroughly until the water runs clear. Any leftover detergent could lead to skin irritation during play. And take care to wipe away any excess moisture before drying, as trapped water spots can leave behind detergent film.
By religiously soaking your lacrosse pads after every use, you ensure the cleaning solution has time to fully do its job. Letting the detergent work its way into all the crevices will keep your gear sanitary and extend its usable life. Don’t cut corners on soak time if you want pads that are free of stains, odors and bacteria.
Using a Soft Bristle Brush on Lacrosse Pads for Deeper Cleaning
While soaking lacrosse pads in detergent will clean off a lot of built-up gunk, sometimes you need a little extra muscle on stubborn stains. That’s where using a soft bristle brush comes in handy.
After soaking the pads, examine them closely for any areas where stains still remain. These may be oil-based residues that didn’t fully dissolve, or discolorations deep in the padding material. Take a soft bristle brush with short, gentle plastic or natural bristles and lightly scrub the affected spots.
You want to avoid hard scrub brushes, as these could damage the pad surface or abrasively pull at the stitching. Soft bristle brushes are firm enough to lift dirt from pores but won’t shred or tug the material. Look for a brush designed for delicate fabrics.
As you brush, apply light pressure and use small circular motions to work up the stain from underneath. This agitation brings detergent deeper into the pad fiber and loosens the bonds trapping the dirt inside. Brush too roughly and you could push the grime in deeper rather than lifting it away.
Pay special attention to busy areas prone to catching dirt, like the elbow caps, shoulder straps, and chest padding. Be sure to scrub both sides of each piece, as residue can seep through. Get into mesh areas using edge of the brush to dislodge clinging particles.
After spot scrubbing with the soft brush, give the pads another thorough rinse. Detergent loosened by the bristles will rinse away easily at this point. Check for any remaining traces of dirt that may warrant another focused scrub.
By being diligent about using a soft brush on soiled lacrosse pads, you’ll get them cleaner than with soaking alone. Removing set-in stains keeps pads sanitary and comfortable during play. The deeper cleaning power of gentle brush agitation makes it an indispensable step in complete pad maintenance.
Rinsing Lacrosse Pads Thoroughly to Remove All Traces of Detergent
After soaking and scrubbing your lacrosse pads to remove built up grime, it’s crucial to rinse them thoroughly to get rid of all detergent residue. Any leftover soap or chemicals on the pads can cause skin irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions during play.
Rinsing should be done with clean, clear water – either under a steady faucet stream or by submerging the pads in a tub of fresh water. Agitate and massage the pads while rinsing to help flush out soap from the interior lining and hidden crevices.
Keep rinsing until the water runs completely clear. It may take several rounds to fully remove all traces of suds or chemicals. For heavy-duty detergent, consider an extra rinse cycle in the washing machine for a more thorough flush.
Visually inspect the pads after draining the rinse water. Look for any bubbling or foaming that would indicate remaining detergent. Target these spots with focused rinsing until the pad is soap-free. Also smell the gear for any lingering perfumed detergent scent.
Getting pads completely clean of detergent prevents skin irritation, clogged pores, allergic reactions, and even bacterial infection. Chemical residues mixed with sweat can lead to a host of problems. Rinsing also washes away any loosened dirt particles so they don’t get redeposited.
Be sure to rinse inside and out, over the full surface area. Pay special attention toVelcro, snaps, mesh, and any absorbent padding material where soap scum tends to cling.
Making that extra effort to rinse lacrosse pads thoroughly until the water runs clear will ensure no annoying detergent is left behind. Taking the time protects your skin and keeps gear odor-free and sanitary after each cleaning.
Allowing Lacrosse Pads to Air Dry Completely Before Storage
After thoroughly washing and rinsing your lacrosse pads, it’s important to let them completely air dry before packing them away. Allowing moisture to remain trapped can lead to foul odors, mildew growth, and deterioration of the padding materials.
Find a clean, dry area with good airflow to lay the disassembled pads flat. Placing them outside in direct sunlight will speed up drying time, as long as you bring them in before nightfall. For faster indoor drying, position a fan to blow air over the pads.
Resist the temptation to bunch pads together before fully dry, as this inhibits air circulation. Moisture gets trapped between layers, taking much longer to evaporate. The damp spots foster mold growth in padding fibers.
Check over pad pieces as they dry. Use a clean towel to blot up any remaining damp spots or beaded droplets. Focus extra drying efforts on seams, velcro closures and other tight areas where moisture tends to collect.
It may take a full 24 hours or longer for pads to dry completely, depending on material thickness. Thumping padding with your fingers and checking for cool moist areas can tell you if they’re done. Err on letting them go too dry versus too damp.
Storing lacrosse pads before totally dry provides an ideal environment for mildew, bacteria and stale odors to take hold. The moisture seeped into padding materials doesn’t easily dissipate once packed together. Rancid smells and health hazards ensue.
Just a few extra hours of air drying makes a huge difference in keeping lacrosse gear fresh smelling and free of contaminants. It also extends the life of the padding materials so they don’t deteriorate prematurely. Be patient and let pads dry fully before storing.
Sanitizing Lacrosse Pads Regularly with Alcohol-Based Disinfectants
To keep lacrosse pads free of dangerous bacteria that cause infections, it’s wise to regularly disinfect them using alcohol-based sanitizing sprays. This provides an added level of protection beyond just using detergents to wash away dirt and sweat buildup.
Look for sanitizing sprays made for athletic gear that contain at least 60% isopropyl or ethyl alcohol. These concentrations have proven germ killing ability. Spray liberally over all pad surfaces after cleaning and fully drying them.
Focus extra spray around Velcro, straps, and closures where microbes congregate. Mist inside padding layers and liners where odors originate. Spritz from all angles to coat every inch of material, wetting thoroughly.
Let the alcohol solution sit for several minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth. This contact time allows disinfectants to fully kill bacteria, viruses, mold and fungi residing deep in padding fibers.
For best results, sanitize lacrosse pads after every use. But at minimum, disinfect them after transporting to tournaments or camps where they’re exposed to new germs. A monthly disinfecting also helps reinforce cleanliness between washings.
Disinfecting pads reduces risk of transmitting infections like staph between players. It guards against gear taking on foul odors that are tough to remove. Sanitizing ultimately extends usable life by preventing deterioration.
A quick spritzing with alcohol spray keeps lacrosse pads germ-free and smelling fresh. Used along with thorough washing, it provides ideal protection from the bacteria-laden dirt accumulated through intense play. Disinfect gear regularly for safety and hygiene.
Targeting Crevices and Mesh When Disinfecting Lacrosse Pads
When sanitizing lacrosse pads with disinfectant spray, it’s important to carefully target crevices and mesh areas where bacteria tend to linger. These intricate spaces don’t get fully exposed to cleaning solutions during washing.
Closely examine pads and identify prime hiding spots for germs, like air holes, sewn joints, strap backs, liner edges, and netted ventilation areas. Angle the sanitizing spray nozzle into openings and depress firmly to drive fluid deeper inside.
For areas like shoulder cap backs or elbow pad liner scratches, remove pad pieces and spray directly into the exposed crevices. Reach into air holes and mesh with a towel to mop up excess pooling sanitizer.
Aim to completely saturate intricate pad structures so disinfectant penetrates everywhere. Bacteria seeks out tiny cracks and openings away from friction during play. Be methodical about addressing every inch.
Avoid just a quick surface spray over easy to reach areas. And resist spraying pads while fully assembled, as many hiding spots get blocked. Meticulously target all composite nooks, cracks, vents and mesh for full protection.
Getting sanitizing fluid into every possible space helps kill germs thriving where sweat and skin oils accumulate. Stopping bacterial growth in crevices also prevents rancid odors that develop over time. Disinfecting pad intricacies keeps gear cleaner and safer.
Be thorough about blasting every possible opening when sanitizing lacrosse pads. Germs multiply quickly in concealed micro-environments away from light and air. Eliminate health hazards lurking in pad complexities.
Washing Lacrosse Pads Immediately After Use to Prevent Buildup
To keep lacrosse pads fresh and bacteria-free, it’s wise to wash them immediately after every use. This prevents sweat, body oils, dirt and grime from setting into the padding materials where it’s much harder to remove.
Ideally, pads should be rinsed clean directly after coming off the field, before stowing in a bag. This quick rinse washes away immediate residue before it dries and bonds to fabric. Then launder thoroughly with detergent once back home.
Washing pads directly after use makes cleaning easier by preventing buildup. Dirt and oils allow future layers to stick on more stubbornly. Stopping accumulation early keeps pads cleaner long-term.
Immediate washing also inhibits bacterial growth in pads. Sweat left sitting promotes rapid microbe multiplication as it feeds the colonies. Preventing their proliferation protects health and avoids later disinfecting.
Check that pads are fully dry before next use. Any lingering dampness becomes gripped with new dirt and sweat, compounding buildup issues. Storing freshly washed pads in open air prevents sour odors.
Make laundry part of your post-practice routine. Designate meshes bags for dirty gear separation. Tell parents washing is required before reuse if they transport pads home.
Staying on top of frequent pad washing right after use avoids labor intensive scrubbing down the road. Air drying fully between uses wicks away moisture where microbes breed. Developing good cleaning habits now saves hassle and health issues.
Inspecting Lacrosse Pads Regularly for Damage Needing Repair
To maintain proper safety and function, lacrosse pads should be regularly inspected for any damage requiring repair or equipment replacement.
Examine all pad pieces closely after each use or weekly at minimum. Look for ripped stitching, loose fasteners, detached or missing straps, cracks in plastic pieces, or holes in fabric.
Areas most prone to wear include shoulder cap attachments, chest pad elastic, arm guard Velcro, thigh pad belts, and knee pad caps. Pull on components to check for sound integration.
If padding foam or inner lining appears compressed, the protective ability is compromised. Feel for soft or misshapen sections indicating deterioration.
Mesh areas are susceptible to snags and tearing, impacting ventilation. Inspect carefully for holes and mend these spots promptly.
Take gear out of circulation when you spot extensive damage or deterioration until repaired. Temporary fixes with tape won’t suffice. Don’t risk injury with faulty equipment.
Be prepared to replace pads reaching the end of their usable lifespan. Repairing extensively worn parts often costs more than buying new gear.
Consistent inspection and early detection of damage keeps lacrosse pads in top shape. Don’t wait until gear fails mid-game. Monitor wear regularly to get the safest use from equipment.
Replacing Old or Damaged Lacrosse Pads to Maintain Safety
Even with proper care, lacrosse pads eventually reach the end of their usable lifespan from simple wear and tear. Once pads become too damaged or worn out, it’s important to replace them in order to maintain safety and performance.
Signs that pads need replacement include cracked outer shells, misshapen or compressed internal foam, ripped stitching, compromised Velcro, missing pieces, and perforated outer fabrics. If the issues are beyond a simple repair, invest in new gear.
Replace pads showing deterioration in protective abilities. Padding that feels soft or is inconsistently dense means cushioning capacity is breaking down. Don’t risk injury with subpar protection.
Heavily damaged structural elements like ripped netting, detached belts and straps, or seams splitting apart also indicate replacement time. These failures leave you exposed.
Thoroughly check sizing as children grow. Pads lacking full coverage pose safety hazards. Gear fitted years ago likely needs updated dimensions.
Hand pads down to younger siblings provided they’re mildly worn. But extensive damage warrants new purchases regardless of remaining lifespan.
Prioritize replacing pads before full failure happens mid-game. This prevents urgent purchases that strain budgets. Factor in replacement costs annually.
Storing Lacrosse Pads in a Well-Ventilated Area
To prevent lacrosse pads from developing foul odors, it’s important to store them in a well-ventilated area anytime they aren’t being used or washed.
Choose storage spots that allow free air circulation all around pad pieces, like open garages, mud rooms, or back porches. Avoid tossing pads in tight boxes or bags, which traps sweat smells.
Hang pads on hooks if possible, to let air reach all sides. Or lay flat on vented shelves rather than stacking together. Place fabric refresher packets in pad compartments to help dissipate odors.
Cracking windows, doors, or lids of storage bins encourages airflow movement. Place a fan periodically to blow through gear and refresh musty smells. Avoid areas like basements or attics where air stagnates.
Let pads fully air dry after washing before stowing away. Any trapped moisture breeds mildew and bacteria in confined spaces. Dry in sunlight for added sanitizing.
Check pad storage spots weekly for any lingering odors. A quick rearrangement outside can air out developing mustiness before it sets permanently.
Be diligent about ventilation between seasons too. Don’t just toss dirty pads in the corner until next use. Periodic air circulation keeps them refreshed.
With proper storage habits, lacrosse gear lasts longer and performs better. Preventing lingering odors in pads requires just a little regular attention to airflow. Keep pads smelling fresh, not funky.
Washing Hands After Handling Lacrosse Pads to Prevent Bacteria Spread
After handling dirty lacrosse pads, it’s important to immediately wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading bacteria that could cause illness.
Pads harbor all sorts of microbes that transfer easily to hands through contact. MRSA, fungal infections, flu virus, streptococcus, E. coli and other bugs lingering in gear can infect you when touched.
Use warm water and antibacterial soap when washing up after practice or games. Lather up and scrub palms, backs, fingers, under nails, and up wrists for at least 20 seconds. This friction helps dislodge and rinse away germs.
Pay special attention to gripping fingers that grab pad straps and edges where microbes concentrate. Use a nailbrush on the undersides of nails where dirt hides.
Thoroughly rinse hands until all soap residue is removed, which could otherwise irritate skin. Dry with a clean paper towel for an added cleansing boost.
Shower immediately after play and avoid touching your face before washing up. Have hand sanitizer available during play to kill germs before they enter eyes, nose or mouth.
Remind children of hand hygiene importance after handling dirty gear. Lead by example washing up before eating, drinking or leaving the field.
Staying vigilant about hand washing prevents illnesses from taking hold in the first place. Applying basic hygiene after lacrosse prevents infectious bacteria from gear taking over your body.
Following Equipment Care Instructions for Lacrosse Pads
To get the maximum lifespan and performance from lacrosse pads, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for cleaning, maintenance, and storage.
Read gear tags thoroughly and highlight key directions. Keep printed care guides accessible for reference before washing.
Follow all fabric care symbols and warnings. Using too hot water, harsh detergents, or bleach damages many pad materials.
Adhere to recommended wash cycles and drying methods. Machine drying foam-lined pads can compress cushions permanently.
Don’t ignore advisements against ironing, dry cleaning, or wringing out certain fabrics. Aggressive handling destroys protective layers.
Heed instructions on disassembling pads before cleaning. Washing pads whole prevents full detergent penetration.
If sanitizing is advised, use the recommended disinfectant product and concentration. Too weak of a solution won’t kill bacteria.
Store pads utilizing suggested methods like flat, hanging, or loose. Improper storage breeds odor and deterioration.
Following the guidelines ensures pads stay usable longer. The manufacturer conducted testing to determine optimal care for durability.
Make gear last and save money by adhering to equipment instructions. Ignoring them risks voiding warranties and shortening pad lifespan.
Setting Reminders to Wash Lacrosse Pads Frequently
To stay consistent with keeping lacrosse pads clean and hygienic, it helps to set reminders for frequent washing that keep you on track.
Mark your calendar with weekly or biweekly pad wash days. Add the task to routines like team practice days or game nights. Schedule it just like any important appointment.
Set phone alarms to prompt washing pads after use before they get stowed. Pop up messages saying “wash gear tonight!” help create habits.
Place visual cues like a sticker chart tracking washes or a dry erase board calendar in gear storage areas. These reminders notify you at point of use.
Get a laundry bin specifically for dirty pads that says “wash me!” on the side. Letting them accumulate triggers action.
Ask coaches to do occasional gear checks and send notice if washing is needed. Accountability from them provides motivation.
Make washing pads part of post-game team cool down stretches. Peers encouraging the habit reinforces diligence.
Use tags with dated markings indicating last wash. After X uses or days, it’s washing time again.
Building consistent pad wash reminders into your routines makes upkeep second nature. Staying on top of cleaning keeps gear fresher for longer.
Investing in Quality Detergents and Disinfectants for Lacrosse Gear
Caring for lacrosse pads properly requires investing in high-quality detergents and disinfectants formulated specifically for sports gear cleaning and sanitization.
Look for detergents containing enzymes and surfactants that dissolve sweat, oils and grass stains without damaging pad materials. Hex Performance is ideal.
Ensure detergents are free of irritating perfumes or dyes that could cause skin reactions. Fragrance-free varieties are best.
Select disinfecting sprays containing at least 60% isopropyl alcohol proven to kill bacteria. Look for sports-specific brands like Gold Medal Spray.
Avoid generic household cleaners not designed for technical athletic fabrics in gear. The harsh chemicals degrade pads prematurely.
Spend a little more for detergents that thoroughly clean without fading or shrinking. Cheaper brands fall short of removing grime fully.
Check that spray disinfectants are EPA-registered specifically for sports gear usage. Unapproved products are less effective.
Read ingredient lists closely and research any unfamiliar components. Some additives counteract cleaning capabilities.
With the proper specialty care products, lacrosse pads stay fresher for longer. Don’t settle for mediocre results from standard household cleaners unsuitable for equipment.