Rinse new gloves before their first session, then hand-wash them with warm water after play to remove dirt. Let them dry at room temperature away from heaters and direct sunlight, and store them cool, dark and dry. Check the glove maker's instructions because materials and care directions can differ.
Clean palms and careful drying are the core of goalkeeper glove care. Rinse new gloves before use, wash them by hand after playing, and let them dry naturally away from heat and direct light.
Care steps
| When | What to do | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Before the first session | Rinse the gloves with warm water, following the maker’s directions | Starting with a dry, unwashed pair when the maker calls for a first wash |
| After play | Hand-wash with warm water to remove dirt; use only glove wash if the maker recommends it | Washing machine, harsh cleaners or solvents |
| While drying | Leave them at room temperature until dry | Radiators and other direct heat |
| During storage | Keep them in a cool, dark, dry place | Intense sunlight or fluorescent light |
| Before play | Follow the maker’s instructions on whether and how to moisten the palms | Applying a different care routine to every glove material |
Reusch says dirt can reduce grip, recommends hand-washing its gloves after use, and advises room-temperature drying away from direct heat. Its care guide also says to store gloves away from strong UV light. Other manufacturers may give different instructions, so check the label or care page for your model.
Wash gently
Use warm water and your hands to work dirt from the palm and backhand. Reusch advises against a washing machine and harsh cleaners. A dedicated glove wash is optional in its guidance, not a substitute for checking the instructions for your own pair.
Dry before storing
Let the gloves dry at room temperature. Keep them away from heaters and direct sunlight, then store them in a cool, dark, dry place. See our goalkeeper glove cuts guide for cut, latex and fit differences.
Related: goalkeeper glove cuts and goalkeeper apparel buying guide. Visit the goalkeeper gear hub.
Sources
Common questions
Should I wash goalkeeper gloves before using them?
Reusch recommends washing new gloves with warm water before first use; follow the care instructions for your specific pair.
Can goalkeeper gloves go in a washing machine?
Reusch recommends hand-washing and says not to use a washing machine.
How should goalkeeper gloves dry?
Let them dry at room temperature and keep them away from radiators or other direct heat.
Should goalkeeper gloves be wet before a game?
Reusch recommends moistening its goalkeeper gloves before play and keeping them slightly wet during use; check your own maker's instructions.