The Best Home Storage Solutions for Lacrosse and Hockey Gear

The Best Home Storage Solutions for Lacrosse and Hockey Gear

The Importance of Proper Lacrosse Stick Storage

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining lacrosse sticks in optimal condition. Exposure to heat, moisture, and direct sunlight can cause warping, breakdown of materials, and loss of playing characteristics. Investing in solutions that allow for ventilation while protecting shape and structure should be a priority.

Storing sticks vertically is recommended by most manufacturers, as the head can maintain its original pocket shape instead of being flattened horizontally. Wall-mounted racks and free-standing stick holders keep sticks upright and spaced apart so air can circulate. This prevents moisture buildup and odor retention within sticks after use.

Protecting the head is also key. Resting sticks with the head on the ground can bend or break sidewalls, loosen stringing, and tear mesh. Plastic head covers slipped over the top help retain structure. Some storage solutions have rests or notches designed to cradle the head off the floor.

Being able to quickly grab sticks without entanglement is another benefit of organized storage. Options like wall racks, slotted holders, and hanging gear bags allow for visibility and access without hassle. Kids can easily grab their preferred stick and get to practice faster.

Taking time to properly store gear after each use extends the life of expensive sticks. Air circulation in cool, dry conditions keeps materials from degrading. Preventing damage to the head maintains optimal throwing, catching, and shooting performance. And being able to conveniently access stored sticks makes gearing up for practice or games a breeze.

Top Wall-Mounted Racks for Lacrosse Stick Storage

Wall-mounted racks offer one of the best solutions for organizing and storing lacrosse sticks at home. By mounting racks vertically, sticks can be properly positioned to prevent damage. Wall storage also maximizes space by getting gear up off the ground and eliminating clutter.

Wall-mounted wooden racks with multiple slots or holders are a popular choice. These maintain stick shape and provide ventilation. Wood also looks great for home decor. Some feature angled slots to neatly cradle lacrosse stick heads. Plastic mounts are another option – lighter weight but still sturdy.

Racks with individual stick holders allow for custom spacing. This provides better airflow while accommodating different stick lengths. Holders come in multi-packs for outfitting larger collections. Choosing holders with protective foam or rubber caps prevents scuffing of walls and stick graphics.

For more heavy-duty storage, metal racks offer the strongest support. Steel and aluminum versions have high weight capacities for holding numerous sticks. Some industrial-style racks have welded hooks, bars, and pegboard panels with endless configuration possibilities.

When selecting wall racks, be sure to account for ceiling height. Measure the tallest stick to ensure adequate vertical clearance. Opt for mounts that can be adjusted up or down as needed. Also check weight capacities and durability if storing many sticks.

Proper installation is crucial – most racks require stud mounting into wall framing. Anchoring into drywall alone risks pulls outs or collapse. Carefully follow included directions or consult experts to ensure racks are securely fastened.

Well-designed wall racks check the boxes for proper lacrosse stick storage. Mounting sticks vertically maintains shape and pocket structure. Individual holders allow for full circulation. Sturdy materials and correct installation provides safety and security. Taking the time to organize gear not only extends equipment life, but also provides convenience when suiting up for the next game.

Convenient Floor Stands for Lacrosse Stick Access

In addition to wall mounting, free-standing floor racks offer another effective option for organizing lacrosse sticks at home. Floor stands provide easy access to gear while keeping it properly positioned and spaced for protection.

Multi-slot wooden floor racks are a top choice for stability and aesthetics. The angled design maintains stick shape and provides ample ventilation. Wood also complements most decors. Plastic and metal stands are lighter but still sturdy. Some feature foam or rubber caps to prevent floor scratches.

Space-saving corner racks are ideal for tucking sticks neatly out of high traffic areas. Corner mounts utilize wasted space and display gear attractively. Rotating holders allow for accessing sticks without removing them fully.

Portable roller racks provide the ultimate convenience. Rolling racks can be transported anywhere in the house, garage, or field house to store gear on the go. Some models fold down for compact storage when not in use.

When selecting floor racks, ensure the base is wide and heavy enough for stability, especially if holding multiple sticks. Check that stand heights exceed the tallest stick length. Rotating or swivel mounts should rotate smoothly without wobbling.

Proper placement is also key. Avoid areas where sticks are prone to getting bumped or knocked over. Position racks out of direct sunlight to prevent material breakdown. Allow adequate space around stands for ventilation and accessibility.

Adjustable, stable floor racks are ideal for families with players of different heights and stick sizes. Opt for stackable holders to accommodate growing collections. Stands with soft, scratch-free guards protect both flooring and gear.

Floor stick racks provide quick, convenient access to lacrosse gear while maintaining proper storage positioning. Models with smart designs, sturdy materials, and adjustable heights can suit any space. Keeping frequently used equipment right at your fingertips makes heading to the backyard or gym for practice a breeze.

Organized Lacrosse Gear Storage with Bins

In addition to wall racks and floor stands, stackable storage bins provide an organized solution for managing multiple lacrosse sticks and gear. Plastic bins keep equipment safely contained while allowing for smart storage and access.

Clear bin systems with lids allow for easy viewing of contents. Labeling bins helps identify each player’s gear or differentiate helmets, pads, gloves, etc. Bins come in various stackable sizes to accommodate gear of all kinds.

Using bins helps corral sticks, heads, pads, uniforms, and other accessories in one place instead of scattered throughout the house or garage. They keep gear protected against damage from moisture, dirt, pets, and more.

Stackable bins maximize storage vertically to save floor space. Systems with interlocking lids further optimize space while keeping bins securely stacked. Wheeled bins can roll out for access then back into storage.

When selecting bins, opt for heavy-duty models that won’t crack or warp under weight. Ensure adequate ventilation, as condensation can occur with air-tight sealing. Lids should seal securely to contain odors.

Properly labeling bins makes finding gear a snap. Use permanent marker on bin fronts, or removable peel-and-stick labels to update contents. Helpful tips are labeling bins by player and sticking their jersey numbers on fronts.

For quick access, reserve top bins for items needed most often like practice sticks, helmets, and gloves. Place items used less frequently in lower stacks. This minimizes daily digging.

Affordable storage bins offer parents and players an organized system for managing lacrosse gear of all types. Properly containing equipment keeps it in prime condition all season long. Just stack, slide, and store!

Maximizing Closet Space with Hanging Lacrosse Bags

Finding adequate storage space for lacrosse gear can be a challenge, especially in crowded closets. Hanging gear bags provide a convenient solution for getting equipment up off the floor and maximizing vertical storage.

Long, narrow bags with grommeted tops are designed to hang from closet rods like garment bags. Durable synthetic materials withstand moisture and use. Shoulder straps allow for carrying to and from the field.

Bags featuring multiple compartments keep gear organized. Padded pockets protect sticks, while side pockets hold helmets or gloves. Some bags have removable shelf dividers to customize interior space.

When selecting a hanging bag, ensure adequate length to accommodate tallest sticks without jamming. Check compartments are large enough for bulky pads and cleats. Look for padded, scratch-resistant panels to protect sticks and walls.

For convenience, choose bags with zippered exterior pockets to hold smaller items like mouthguards, tape, socks, or practice balls. Interior ID pockets allow players to label their bag clearly.

Properly packing bags prevents sticking out or excess bulkiness. Place sticks vertically in protective pads, nestling together. Put cleats in soles-down to avoid punctures. Stuff shoulder pads to retain shape.

Hanging multiple bags can maximize storage for families. Just be sure weight doesn’t exceed the rod’s limit if loaded heavily. Consider installing sturdy specialty rods designed for holding sports bags if needed.

With their vertical design and multi-storage options, hanging gear bags are ideal for compact closets and tight spaces. Keeping lacrosse equipment up off the floor maintains organization and extends gear longevity all season long.

Custom Lacrosse Stick Racks Using DIY Materials

For hands-on players and parents, constructing homemade lacrosse stick racks can be a rewarding DIY project. Using materials like PVC pipe or wood, you can create custom storage solutions to perfectly fit your space and gear needs.

A classic DIY rack design utilizes PVC pipes cut to various lengths and joined with elbows and T joints into ladder shapes. Pipes can be mounted on walls or propped on floor stands. Foam padding wrapped around rungs protects stick graphics.

For more heavy-duty options, wooden racks can be cut and assembled from 2x4s or plywood boards. Cut vertical slots or drill multiple holes for stick storage. Paint or stain finishes complement home aesthetics while protecting the wood.

When designing DIY racks, carefully measure gear to allow for proper clearance and spacing between sticks. Account for growth to avoid future size constraints. Include vertical, angled, or lip supports to cradle stick heads.

Use durability materials like thick, schedule 40 PVC or exterior-grade plywood. Drill pilot holes and use bolts for reinforcement. Properly mount to studs or reinforce bases for stability. Include wheels or casters on floor versions for mobility.

DIY lacrosse stick racks allow for customization to fit family needs and home decor. Building your own storage solutions together teaches engineering skills while saving money. And the finished racks become treasured projects providing years of practical use.

Storing Lacrosse Sticks in Backpacks and Duffel Bags

In a pinch, backpacks and duffel bags can provide portable storage options for lacrosse sticks and gear. While not ideal for long-term use, bags offer easy transport and protection during travel.

Backpacks with dedicated stick holders allow for hands-free carrying. Padded slots on sides or front keep sticks secure while leaving room in the main compartment for other gear.

For extra protection, transport sticks in padded cover tubes that slide over the head and shaft. Carrying cases help prevent poke-through damage to bags or sticks bumping together.

When using standard bags, carefully nestle sticks vertically in the main compartment, using clothes or towels as packing material to prevent movement. Pad the tips to avoid rips or sticks piercing through.

Duffel bags should be long enough to accommodate full stick lengths lying horizontally. Wrap heads and shafts individually to prevent damage where they intersect. Limit other contents to avoid compression.

Ensure backpack straps and duffel handles are well-padded to make carrying heavy gear comfortable. Bags with smooth gliding wheels help transport a full load.

While providing protection in transit, prolonged storage in bags can be problematic. Sticks crammed horizontally or diagonally risk warping. Condensation and odor buildup can occur in compact spaces.

For travel to tournaments or practice, transporting sticks and gear in quality bags keeps equipment safe. But bags should be unloaded fully after each use to allow gear to air out.

Proper Lacrosse Stick Orientation for Storage

When storing lacrosse sticks, proper orientation is key for maintaining optimal shape and performance. While convenient, laying sticks horizontally can cause flattening and damage over time.

Storing sticks vertically utilizes gravity to help retain the head’s original pocket structure. Wall mounts or floor racks with vertical slots keep sticks upright and spaced apart for air circulation.

Angled racks cradle sticks to take pressure off the top of the head. Notched rests on slots further reduce contact points for delicately strung heads.

Sticks stored horizontally tend to develop flat spots along the sidewalls and scoops, loosening stringing over time. Shooting strings and whip also loosen without tension from gravity.

Horizontal storage causes shafts to bow if heads are weighted to one side. Overlapping sticks risk paint transfer and scuffing along intersections.

If horizontal stacking is unavoidable, rotate stick orientation to distribute pressure differently with each use. Periodically stand sticks vertically to re-form pockets as needed.

Be sure to check manufacturer guidelines, as some composite or wooden shafts require horizontal storage to prevent bending. But for most modern gear, vertical is best.

Proper lacrosse stick orientation while stored maximizes longevity and performance. Investing in quality wall or floor racks provides long-term dividends for your player’s developing game.

Protecting Lacrosse Stick Heads When Not In Use

Lacrosse stick heads require special care and protection when not in use to maintain their structure and stringing integrity. Using head covers and proper storage methods preserves shape, pocket, and performance.

Plastic head covers slip over the top of the head when not being used. This protects sidewalls, scoops, and stringing from getting bent or damaged during storage or transport.

Covers should fit snugly but not tightly, as over-stretching can distort head shape. Multi-pack sets allow for outfitting a whole team or family affordably.

For extra protection, prop or hang sticks with heads resting in plastic head cradles or notches. Avoid letting stick heads sit directly on the ground, which can bend or break sidewalls.

When stacking sticks horizontally, place padding like towels under intersections to prevent paint scratching or frame damage. Rotate stick direction periodically to vary contact points.

Check heads before and after use for any defects like cracking or loosening. Tighten or re-string as needed. Periodically re-shape pockets by storing sticks vertically.

Traveling to games in a padded stick bag provides protection from bumps and shifting during transport. Carrying sticks in padded cover tubes adds another layer of safety.

Taking steps to protect lacrosse stick heads preserves their integrity and playing performance. A little extra care extends the life of these vital game tools.

Keeping Lacrosse Pads, Helmets & Cleats Fresh

Proper storage and cleaning is essential for keeping lacrosse pads, helmets, and cleats in optimal condition. Sweat and dirt buildup can degrade gear and create unpleasant odors if left unchecked.

Start by fully airing out all equipment after each use. Pads should be lightly stuffed to retain shape rather than compressed into bags. Use gear bags with ventilated compartments or bins with mesh panels.

Spray pads and inner helmet liners with antibacterial/antifungal spray to inhibit mold and mildew growth. Remove dirt first to avoid locking it in; spot clean with gentle detergent if needed.

Wipe down helmet exteriors with non-abrasive cleaners and dry thoroughly. Check for cracks or loosening of clips/screws. Tighten chin straps as needed to prevent slippage.

Remove insoles from cleats after each use. Stuff toes with newspaper or dryer sheets to absorb moisture. Frequently launder laces, socks and practice jerseys.

For convenience, store each player’s gear together in labeled bins, lockers or bags. Reserve top sections for items needed most often. Repeat cleaning regularly.

Take time between seasons for deep cleaning. Scrub pads with cleaners and disinfectant. Replace worn or ill-fitting pads for safety. Professionally recondition/re-coat helmets every few years.

Well-cared-for lacrosse gear stays fresh for safer play. Allowing time and air for drying prevents buildup of grime and odor-causing bacteria.

Storing Lacrosse Goalie Gear Separately

Due to its bulkier size and specialized nature, lacrosse goalie gear requires its own dedicated storage approach. Separating pads, helmets and sticks from field players’ equipment allows for better organization and protection.

Look for large capacity gear bags designed specifically for goalie needs. Padded compartments protect bulky leg pads from damage during transport and storage.

Utilize large bins or shelving units to segregate goalie gear at home. Label clearly for easy identification. This keeps items from getting mixed in with other players’ equipment.

Find a space where leg pads can stand upright and fully extended to retain shape. Avoid folding or tightly packing pads to prevent compression damage.

Designate separate sections of hanging gear bags or wall racks for goalie sticks. The oversized heads require more room and support to prevent warping.

Protect hands from stray balls and stick damage by storing gloves tucked inside or clipped to helmet face masks when not in use.

Clean and air out all goalie equipment thoroughly after each use. Sweat-soaked gear is prone to odor retention. Spot clean as needed.

Take inventory of gear condition frequently. Goalie equipment endures heavy use. Replace worn or ill-fitting pads to maintain protection.

With extra care taken to store bulky goalie gear properly, it will provide seasons of reliable protection and optimal performance in the crease.

Clear Plastic Bins for Organized Lacrosse Gear

Clear plastic storage bins provide a convenient and organized solution for managing lacrosse equipment. Durable bins keep gear contained and protected while allowing players to easily identify contents.

Stackable bin systems work great for team gear rooms or at home. Different size options accommodate bulky pads, sticks, balls, uniforms, and other accessories.

Clear bins allow quick visual inventory of contents without unpacking. Players can quickly grab needed items for practice or games. Affixing labels to fronts keeps bins clearly identified.

Lids keep gear protected from dust or damage during the offseason. Ventilated lids allow airflow to prevent odors. Interlocking stacked bins maximize storage space.

Look for heavy-duty bins constructed from thick plastic that won’t easily crack or warp, even under loads of heavy padding and gear. Wheeled bins provide portable access.

Strategically pack bins to keep items handy as needed – practice gear on top, less used items toward bottom. Leave some empty bins for future growth.

Avoid overstuffing bins or sealing too tightly, as trapped moisture from sweaty gear can lead to mold or mildew. Allow space for ventilation.

Affordable clear storage bins bring organization to lacrosse gear collections large and small. Players can gear up and get to the field faster when equipment has a dedicated place.

Garage Storage Systems for Lacrosse Gear

For families with lots of lacrosse equipment, a garage storage system provides ample, organized space. Heavy-duty racks and cabinets keep gear secure while allowing convenient access.

Freestanding shelving units work great for bulky pads, bags, uniform bins and other accessories. Adjustable shelves accommodate growing kids and expanding gear collections.

Wall-mounted slat systems maximize vertical space usage. Different sized slots neatly store sticks upright and off the floor. Use hooks for hanging bags and helmets.

Look for durable metal cabinetry with locking doors to keep expensive gear secure. Mount overhead for out of the way storage that frees floor space.

Utilize label makers or markers to clearly identify bins, shelves, hooks and cabinet areas devoted to each player or gear type. This helps avoid misplaced equipment.

Consider adding portable caddies on wheels for transporting armloads of gear out to the driveway or field. Caddies can securely stow everything needed for practice.

Check weight capacities and reinforced mounting for any racks, shelves or overhead storage. Properly installed systems prevent dangerous collapses.

A well-designed garage system makes gear access quick and convenient. Families can grab and go with everything organized and protected in its place.

Utilizing Mudrooms for Lacrosse Gear Storage

For lacrosse players, conveniently storing gear near home entryways allows for quick grab-and-go access. Mudrooms and coat closets provide close-at-hand spots to organize essential equipment.

Use wall hooks, over-the-door racks or wall-mounted slat systems to hang gear bags, helmets, pads and other items right by the door. This makes suiting up faster.

Freestanding racks stationed near the entry keep sticks upright and ready for quick carries. Rotating holders allow easy stick access without fully removing them.

Basket solutions mounted on walls or shelving corral smaller items like goggles, elbow pads, gloves and cleats for easy retrieval when heading out.

Consider a bench or storage ottoman that can be lifted to stash gear conveniently. Insides stay protected from tracking in outdoor dirt and grime.

For wet gear, utilize water-resistant hooks, bins and mats. Absorbent mats also help collect dirt from muddy cleats before entering the house.

Keep extra gear bags, tape, first aid items, and other extras in reach for when they’re needed at the last minute on the way to practice.

Convenient mudroom storage solutions make heading out to the field quick and painless. Players can suit up and go with all essential gear right at their fingertips.

Teaching Kids Lacrosse Gear Responsibility

For young lacrosse players, implementing organized storage systems provides opportunities to instill responsibility. Kids learn equipment care lessons and develop good habits through proper gear maintenance.

Start by outlining expectations for post-practice gear care like air drying, sanitizing, and putting items neatly away in designated bins or bags.

Demonstrate how to carefully handle sticks, pads, and helmets to prevent damage. Show techniques for identifying wear and reporting it timely.

Encourage accountability by assigning storage jobs like wiping down gear, hanging bags, or storing team sticks after games and practices. Foster pride in proper care.

Set up labeled, individualized storage cubbies, bins, or lockers for each player to control. Keep extra supplies like sanitizer and deodorizer handy.

Explain proper maintenance like rotating pads to evenly distribute wear and unstringing sticks to preserve pocket shape after heavy use.

Share stories of your own learned storage lessons and mishaps. Kids relate to mistakes and consequences.

Patiently remind and redirect when organizational habits lapse. Consistency and encouragement build lifelong skills.

Developing sound lacrosse gear care through organized storage teaches kids responsibility. Maintaining expensive equipment properly keeps it performing safely.