Should You Steam A Baseball Glove?

If you’re a baseball player, you know that one of the most important pieces of equipment you have is your glove. A good glove can help you make those difficult catches, and give you an edge on the field. But what’s the best way to take care of your glove? Should you steam it?

Introduction

While you might think that a steamy shower or hot tub would be the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate your muscles, the extremely hot temperatures can actually do more harm than good. The same goes for your baseball glove. While it might seem like a good idea to steam your glove in order to soften it up, the heat can actually damage the leather, making it more susceptible to tearing and cracks.

The Pros of Steaming a Glove

Steaming a baseball glove can help to break it in and make it more flexible. This is a process that should be done slowly and carefully however, as you don’t want to damage the glove. Steaming can also help to remove any unwanted smells from the glove.

It Can Help the Glove Maintain Its Shape

One of the pros of steaming a baseball glove is that it can help the glove maintain its shape. If your glove starts to lose its shape, steaming it can help it regain its original form. This is especially helpful if you have an older glove that you want to keep in good condition. Steaming can also help remove any wrinkles from the leather, giving your glove a more natural look.

It Can Help Soften the Glove

One pro of steaming a baseball glove is that it can help soften the glove. This is beneficial because a softer glove will generally be more comfortable to wear and may also be more pliable, which could result in a better grip on the ball. If you have a new glove that is particularly stiff, steaming it may also help to break it in more quickly.

It Can Help Remove Bad Smells

If your baseball glove has developed a musty smell, steaming it can help remove the odor. Fill a large pot with water and set it to boiling on the stove. Place the baseball glove on a clothes hanger, then hold the hanger over the boiling water. Allow the steam to permeate the glove for several minutes. Remove the glove and allow it to dry thoroughly before using it again.

The Cons of Steaming a Glove

Although steaming a baseball glove can soften it and make it more pliable, there are some potential downsides to doing so. One is that the heat from the steaming process can cause the leather to become dry and brittle. This can shorten the lifespan of your glove. Additionally, if not done correctly, steaming a glove can cause it to lose its shape.

It Can Cause the Glove to Warp

One of the cons of steaming a baseball glove is that it can cause the glove to warp. If you don’t pay attention to how long you steam the glove for, or if you don’t allow it to dry completely before using it, the heat from the steam can cause the glove to warp. This means that your glove will no longer fit as snuggly on your hand, and it could also affect how well you are able to grip the ball.

It Can Make the Glove Too Soft

One big con of steaming a baseball glove is that it can make the glove too soft. If you steam a baseball glove for too long or if the temperature is too hot, the heat can break down the fibers in the glove and make it softer than it was before. This might not be a big deal for some players, but if you’re looking for a stiff, sturdy glove, steaming it is probably not the best idea.

Conclusion

While you can use a steamer on your baseball glove, it’s not generally recommended. Steaming can cause the leather to become too soft, which can lead to premature wear and tear. It’s also possible to accidentally over-steam your glove, which can ruin it. If you do decide to steam your glove, be sure to use a low setting and don’t steam for more than a few minutes at a time.