Hockey is a fast-paced, intense sport that demands a lot from players—and their gear. Hockey is filled with action and contact— the kind that leaves lots of sweat, debris, and even blood on the ice. From helmets and pads to gloves and skates, hockey equipment is a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and odor. Regular cleaning with athletic gear disinfectant is essential for keeping hockey gear clean, safe, and odor-free.
Read on for five key tips for disinfecting hockey gear safely and effectively with a non-bleach sports disinfectant.
1. Dry After Every Use
The first step to keeping hockey gear clean and odor-free is proper drying. Avoid stuffing everything into your bag or throwing it into your car after a game. Instead, take out all the equipment as soon as possible and hang it in a well-ventilated space to dry. Invest in a gear drying rack or hang individual pieces of equipment on a laundry rack to allow better airflow. Drying properly helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which thrive in damp environments. This will also extend the life of your gear!
2. Use a Sports Gear-Specific Disinfectant
Not all disinfectants are a good match for hockey gear. It’s essential to use one that effectively breaks down the sweat, bacteria, and odor that builds up without damaging hockey uniforms and gear. Many contain harsh chemicals like bleach or peroxide–avoid them at all costs! Opt for a non-bleach disinfectant spray like Clear Gear that is designed to kill bacteria and eliminate odors without harming your equipment. Clear Gear disinfects without any ammonia, peroxide, or alcohol, and leaves no noxious fumes behind either!
3. Machine Wash Soft Gear Regularly
The soft, fabric parts of your gear—like gloves, shin guard liners, and elbow pad liners—can be washed in a washing machine. This is one of the best ways to give your equipment a deep clean and remove any lingering bacteria. Spray items with Clear Gear first to pre-treat, let sit for 5- 10 minutes, and then wash! You may want to put soft gear in a mesh laundry bag designed for delicate items and use a gentle cycle with cold water. Always use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners which can leave residues that trap bacteria. PRO TIP: Air dry soft gear, as machine drying can damage materials.
4. Wipe Down Hard Gear with Soap and Water
Spray gear like helmets, shoulder pads, and shin guards with athletic gear disinfectant directly after use to kill germs. You can wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge to get deep into the crevices where sweat and bacteria can accumulate. After wiping down, use a clean towel to dry the equipment or allow it to air-dry fully before storing it.
5. Hit Your Hockey Bag
Don’t forget to disinfect your hockey bag! It’s another breeding ground for germs, so spray with Clear Gear non-bleach disinfectant before and after every use, and give it a deep clean once a month or more. This helps prevent the reintroduction of germs onto freshly cleaned gear and helps maintain a hygienic environment for your equipment. It will also keep your bag smelling fresh and prolong its life.
Disinfecting hockey gear isn’t just about getting rid of that hockey stank–it’s also about prolonging the life of your equipment and protecting your health. Regular disinfection with Clear Gear athletic gear disinfectant will keep you and your gear fresh–and ready for action.
