Rescue Your Soggy Baseball Glove: The Ultimate Drying Guide

Updated at: 09/05/2025

The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, the satisfying thud of a perfectly caught fly ball – baseball is a game of passion and precision. But even the most dedicated player can face a disheartening setback: a soggy, waterlogged baseball glove. A damp glove not only feels uncomfortable but also significantly impacts its performance, leading to poor catches and potentially even damage to the leather. Losing your grip, facing stiff leather, and worrying about mold growth are all very real concerns when your trusty glove gets drenched. Don't despair! A soaked glove doesn't mean the end of the game.

This article provides the ultimate drying guide to rescue your beloved baseball glove from a watery grave, restoring it to its peak condition. We'll walk you through a step-by-step process, ensuring your glove is not only dry but also properly cared for to prevent future damage and extend its lifespan. Ready to get started and bring your glove back to life? Let's dive into the detailed instructions.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Absorbent towels (ShamWow recommended)
  • Clean cloths
  • Softball or similar
  • Fan (no heat)
  • Electric blanket (low heat setting)
  • High-quality glove conditioner (Mizuno, Wilson, etc.)
  • Postal scale (optional)
  • Softball
Safety Guidelines
  • Never put your glove in a dryer, oven, or direct sunlight. High heat can permanently damage the leather.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive water when cleaning. Use a soft cloth and mild soap if necessary.
  • Stuffing your glove with newspaper helps absorb moisture, but replace the newspaper regularly as it becomes damp.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Initial Water Removal

    • Stuff the glove with absorbent towels to soak up excess water.
    • Use clean cloths to remove water from the finger pockets.
    Use clean cloths to remove water from the finger pockets.Use clean cloths to remove water from the finger pockets.
    Initial Water Removal

  2. Accelerated Drying with Pressure

    • Wrap the glove in towels and blankets, applying pressure to help absorb moisture.
    Wrap the glove in towels and blankets, applying pressure to help absorb moisture.
    Accelerated Drying with Pressure

  3. Air Circulation and Gentle Heat

    • Use a fan (no heat) to create airflow and further dry the glove.
    • Alternately use gentle heat from an electric blanket (low setting) to encourage moisture evaporation.
    Alternately use gentle heat from an electric blanket (low setting) to encourage moisture evaporation.Alternately use gentle heat from an electric blanket (low setting) to encourage moisture evaporation.
    Air Circulation and Gentle Heat

  4. Repeat Drying Process

    • Repeat steps 3-5 for several days, changing towels frequently, until the glove is nearly dry.
    Repeat steps 3-5 for several days, changing towels frequently, until the glove is nearly dry.
    Repeat Drying Process

  5. Conditioning

    • Apply a generous amount of high-quality glove conditioner.
    Apply a generous amount of high-quality glove conditioner.
    Conditioning

Read more: Ultimate Glove Break-In Guide: The Fast & Effective Method

Tips

  • Weigh the glove daily to track progress. This helps to monitor the moisture removal.
  • Don't use harsh heat sources like hair dryers or ovens; these can damage the leather.
  • Work the glove by flexing and massaging the leather while drying to improve its flexibility.
  • If using a thick glove conditioner like Mizuno Strong Oil, warm it slightly to make it easier to apply and absorb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using High Heat

Reason: High heat from dryers or direct sunlight can damage the leather, causing it to crack and become brittle.
Solution: Air dry your glove at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

2. Stuffing the Glove Too Tightly

Reason: Overstuffing prevents proper air circulation, leading to slow drying and potential mold growth.
Solution: Use a glove former or loosely stuff the glove with a soft, breathable material like clean towels or newspaper.

3. Ignoring the Liner

Reason: A wet glove liner can harbor bacteria and mildew, causing odor and potentially damaging the leather.
Solution: Remove the liner (if possible) and dry it separately, ensuring it's completely dry before reinserting it into the glove.

FAQs

My glove is completely soaked after being caught in the rain. How long will it take to dry completely?
Drying time depends on the glove's material, size, and the method used. Air drying can take 1-3 days, while using a fan or low heat may reduce this to 12-24 hours. Avoid using high heat, which can damage the leather.
Can I use a hairdryer or put my glove in the dryer to speed up the process?
No, avoid using a hairdryer or clothes dryer. The high heat can severely damage the leather, causing it to crack and become brittle. Gentle air drying is the safest method.