Baseball and softball players often have to break in their gloves. But what if you’re looking for an alternative to breaking in a glove with conventional methods? Can you use WD-40 to break in a glove? The short answer is yes, you can use WD-40 to break in a glove. However, there are some pros and cons to using WD-40 to break in a glove that you should consider before using it.
What is WD-40?
WD-40 is a multi-purpose product that is primarily used for lubrication, rust prevention, and corrosion control. It is a petroleum-based product that contains a blend of mineral oils, petroleum distillates, and additives. WD-40 was originally developed as a water-displacing spray and has since become a popular product for many household and industrial applications.
What Are the Benefits of Using WD-40 to Break in a Glove?
There are several benefits to using WD-40 to break in a glove.
First, WD-40 helps to soften leather. The petroleum distillates in WD-40 act as a lubricant, helping to soften the leather fibers in the glove. This makes the glove softer and more pliable, which makes it easier for the glove to conform to your hand shape.
Second, WD-40 helps to protect the leather. The petroleum distillates in WD-40 help to protect the leather from the elements. This helps to keep the glove in good condition for longer and prevents it from drying out and becoming brittle.
Lastly, WD-40 helps to reduce friction. The lubricating properties of WD-40 help to reduce the friction between the leather and your hand. This helps to improve your grip on the glove and helps to reduce the chances of the glove slipping off your hand.
What Are the Drawbacks of Using WD-40 to Break in a Glove?
Despite the benefits, there are some drawbacks to using WD-40 to break in a glove.
First, WD-40 can make the glove too soft. While it is beneficial to have a glove that is soft and pliable, it is possible for the glove to become too soft. This can make the glove less durable and more prone to wear and tear.
Second, WD-40 can attract dirt and grime. The petroleum distillates in WD-40 can attract dirt and grime, which can make the glove more prone to wear and tear.
Third, WD-40 can damage certain materials. WD-40 can damage certain materials, such as nylon and vinyl. It is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that WD-40 is safe to use on your glove.
How to Use WD-40 to Break in a Glove
If you decide to use WD-40 to break in a glove, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure that you use it correctly.
Step 1: Clean the Glove
The first step is to clean the glove. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris from the glove. This will help to make sure that the WD-40 is applied evenly and will help to prevent the WD-40 from attracting dirt and grime.
Step 2: Apply the WD-40
Once the glove is clean, you can apply the WD-40. Spray a light coating of WD-40 onto the glove, making sure to cover all areas of the glove. Allow the WD-40 to sit on the glove for a few minutes before wiping off any excess.
Step 3: Work the Glove
Once the WD-40 has been applied, you can begin to work the glove. Put the glove on your hand and work it around, bending the leather and massaging it with your hands. This will help to soften the leather and will help to make the glove more pliable.
Step 4: Repeat the Process
Repeat the process several times until the glove is broken in to your liking. Depending on the type of glove, you may need to repeat the process several times before the glove is fully broken in.
Conclusion
Yes, you can use WD-40 to break in a glove. WD-40 helps to soften leather, protect the leather, and reduce friction. However, there are some drawbacks to using WD-40, such as the possibility of the glove becoming too soft, attracting dirt and grime, and damaging certain materials. If you decide to use WD-40 to break in a glove, make sure to follow the steps outlined above.