Having a wet baseball glove can be a real nuisance for any player, regardless of the level of their skill. From the moment that the glove touches the water, the effect of the moisture can be felt, causing the leather to become stiff and rigid. This can make it difficult to properly hold and grip the baseball, making catching and throwing more difficult. Fortunately, there are a few things players can do to dry out their glove and get back to playing.
Find a Safe Place to Dry the Glove
The first step to drying a wet baseball glove is to find a safe place to dry it. This should be done in a well-ventilated area, as the glove needs air to dry. Avoid direct sunlight and sources of heat, as these can cause the leather to shrink, crack, and become brittle. The glove should also be laid out flat so that it can dry evenly.
Let the Glove Air Out
Once the glove is laid out flat in a well-ventilated area, the next step is to let the glove air out. This is the best way to dry out a wet glove, as the air will help to evaporate the moisture from the leather. The glove should be left to air out for at least 24 hours, or until the leather feels dry to the touch.
Remove Any Excess Moisture
After the glove has been left to air out, there may still be some excess moisture in the leather. In this case, it is best to use a sponge or a cloth to remove the moisture. The sponge or cloth should be dampened with lukewarm water and then gently wrung out. The sponge or cloth should then be used to carefully rub the leather of the glove to remove any remaining moisture.
Condition the Glove
Once the glove is completely dry, it is important to condition the leather. This will help to keep the leather soft and supple, allowing the glove to keep its shape and form. There are many leather conditioners available on the market, but some of the best ones are made from natural ingredients such as beeswax and lanolin. Applying a small amount of leather conditioner to the glove will help to keep the leather soft and pliable.
Stuff the Glove
Finally, it is important to stuff the glove with newspaper or a similar material. This will help to maintain the shape of the glove and ensure that it doesn’t become misshapen. The newspaper or other material should be placed inside the glove and then placed in a warm, dry area. This will help to keep the glove in the best condition possible.
Conclusion
Drying out a wet baseball glove can be a hassle, but with the right steps, it can be done quickly and easily. The first step is to find a safe place to dry the glove. Once the glove is in the right place, it should be left to air out for at least 24 hours. After the glove is dry, use a damp sponge or cloth to remove any remaining moisture before conditioning the leather. Finally, stuff the glove with newspaper or a similar material to maintain its shape. With the right steps, a wet baseball glove can be dried out and ready to use in no time.