Sports equipment is a general term used to describe the essential tools used to perform a certain sport. It is not just limited to the devices used by athletes but also covers the personal gear worn by them during their games. Both types of tools are significant to the success of the game and the performance of the players.
Due to their importance, sports equipment should be handled with mindfulness and care. It is essential to maintain the condition of these products in order to make them last longer. The equipment’s quality also contributes to the reduction of potential risks and injuries of the athletes.
Considering this, you preserve them in their perfect condition. Although it may be slightly time-consuming, one of the easiest and simplest ways to maintain their quality is to keep them clean.
6 Ways to Keep Your Equipment Clean
For Wearable Gear
- Be informed on the tool’s cleaning specifications
Initially, you need to check the tool’s material and its label. For convenience, you may categorize your equipment and their cleaning specifications ahead of time so you can wash them in batches. Some gear can immediately be washed while some needs to be air dried prior to putting them in the washing machine. If you’re unsure how to clean a certain piece equipment, you can go to your local sports shop and ask for their advice.
2. Use a shoe deodorizer spray
Shoes tend to be the most foul-smelling equipment. A shoe deodorizer spray may assist you in controlling those potential odor-causing bacteria from spreading in your skates or running shoes. After all, it’s much better to prevent your footwear from stinking rather than stressing out on how you can remove the odor.
A variety of sprays are available on the market. These sprays were designed to eliminate the different microorganisms that breed on your footwear. Scenturion provides clear, fragrance-free power that gets rid of those odor-causing culprits. It perfectly applies on both fabrics and leather.
3. Rely on the washing machine
Thankfully, there’s a lot of equipment that can be washed in the laundry. For instance, gears like jerseys, pants, pads, chest protectors, and gloves can be cleaned in a washer. Just bear in mind to select the cool water setting on the gentle cycle for the vast majority of your equipment. For extra disinfecting, you can wash your gear at a higher temperature. However, if you are bothered about shrinkage, then you should opt for the cool water setting instead.
Additionally, refrain from adding too much detergent—too much may leave a residue that your appliance cannot rinse out. This residue may bind into your gear and actually pull more dirt and sweat when you work out.
4. Occasionally deep clean your equipment
Sports tend to involve being in close proximity with other players. Harmful microorganisms, when in contact with gear, may pose detrimental health issues and can spread between players and teammates. To prevent this from occurring, it is essential to periodically deep clean your equipment. Your fresh gear will not only keep you from acquiring infection, but may also help you improve your athletic performance.
For Playing Gear
5. Wipe equipment with moist rag
A lot of sports equipment can be wiped with a damp cloth to clean them. You may also sanitize golf clubs, soccer balls, skis, and the like using soap or special cleaning supplies, and a moist rag. This can remove the dirt and other residue on the equipment.
6. Keep them in proper storage
Place your sports equipment in storage after washing or wiping them—but make sure they are completely dry before you do so. You should store your equipment in a dry space at room temperature. Proper storage is the key not just to preserve your spotless equipment, but to also prevent them from possibly wearing out.
The Importance of Keeping Sports Equipment Clean
Most of sports gear are made to withstand heavy usage and dirt. However, these tools are still breeding places for bacteria and odors. Hence, it is essential to check them periodically. When it comes to maintaining their perfect condition, sports equipment should be routinely cleaned.
Whether you play sports for fitness and exercise or for leisure, you are responsible for checking the quality and cleanliness of your gears. Apart from being foul-free, sanitized devices protect you from acquiring certain infection and diseases. It is essential to take note that prolong contact sports pose risks of contamination, especially if a player already has an open wound or skin abrasion. Hence, equipment maintenance should be prioritized.
The Bottom Line
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts should recognize the significance of looking after their gears. Most of them are quite expensive, so it’s important to keep them in top condition. Apart from the fact that it preserves their quality, clean equipment may also provide you security against infections that commonly develop in moist environments. Likewise, it may aid you with your performance and experience during the game.