How to Properly Oil a Baseball Glove for Optimal Performance

Updated at: 12/05/2025

A well-oiled baseball glove isn't just about aesthetics; it's the key to superior performance on the field. A properly conditioned glove offers improved flexibility, a softer feel, and a quicker break-in time, ultimately leading to more confident catches and fewer dropped balls. Ignoring this crucial maintenance step can result in a stiff, uncomfortable glove that hinders your gameplay and potentially even leads to injuries. The right oil, applied correctly, transforms a new glove from a rigid shell into a reliable partner in the game.

This difference between a poorly maintained and a perfectly conditioned glove is significant. To learn the exact steps involved in achieving optimal glove performance through proper oiling, follow the detailed guide below, which will walk you through the entire process from choosing the right oil to the final conditioning steps.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Use only glove oil specifically designed for leather. Other oils can damage the leather and void warranties.
  • Less is more. Over-oiling can make your glove too stiff or sticky. Apply oil sparingly and allow it to absorb completely.
  • Avoid getting oil on the glove's laces or stitching. This can weaken them and affect the glove's overall durability.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • baseball glove, rag/sock/sponge, and glove oil (or substitute).
    Gather your materials: baseball glove, rag/sock/sponge, and glove oil (or substitute).
    Preparation

  2. Initial Oiling

    • Apply a small amount of oil (nickel to quarter-sized) to your rag/sock/sponge.
    Apply a small amount of oil (nickel to quarter-sized) to your rag/sock/sponge.
    Initial Oiling

  3. Oiling High-Stress Areas

    • Oil the laces thoroughly, focusing on areas that experience stress during gameplay.
    • Oil the pocket and impact points (where the ball hits) generously.
    • Focus on oiling the break points of the glove (where it creases when closed), to prevent cracking.
    Focus on oiling the break points of the glove (where it creases when closed), to prevent cracking.Focus on oiling the break points of the glove (where it creases when closed), to prevent cracking.Focus on oiling the break points of the glove (where it creases when closed), to prevent cracking.
    Oiling High-Stress Areas

  4. Oiling the Palm and Fingers

    • Lightly oil the entire palm and fingers, paying extra attention to the pocket.
    • Oil the area where your fingers stick out of the glove to prevent cracking from sweat.
    • Oil the palm and gaps where your hand breathes, focusing on areas prone to sweat and cracking.
    Oil the palm and gaps where your hand breathes, focusing on areas prone to sweat and cracking.Oil the palm and gaps where your hand breathes, focusing on areas prone to sweat and cracking.Oil the palm and gaps where your hand breathes, focusing on areas prone to sweat and cracking.
    Oiling the Palm and Fingers

  5. Optional: Finger Stall Conditioning

    • Optionally, oil your fingers and then rub them inside the glove to condition the finger stalls.
    Optionally, oil your fingers and then rub them inside the glove to condition the finger stalls.
    Optional: Finger Stall Conditioning

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Staying Warm While Playing Baseball in Cold Weather

Tips

  • A little oil goes a long way; don't over-oil the glove.
  • Oil your glove once or twice a season to maintain its condition and prolong its lifespan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too Much Oil

Reason: Excess oil can make the glove too soft, heavy, and prone to damage, affecting its durability and ability to hold its shape.
Solution: Apply oil sparingly and only to specific areas needing conditioning, allowing the glove to absorb the oil gradually.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Oil

Reason: Using inappropriate oils like mink oil or neatsfoot oil can damage the glove's leather, leading to cracking and discoloration over time.
Solution: Stick to glove-specific oils or conditioners designed for baseball glove leather to ensure optimal conditioning without harming the material.

FAQs

What type of oil should I use for my baseball glove?
Avoid petroleum-based oils! Use a glove oil specifically designed for leather. These are formulated to condition the leather without damaging it, unlike harsh oils that can leave it brittle or stiff.
How often should I oil my baseball glove?
This depends on the glove's age and the climate. New gloves generally need oiling less frequently (every few weeks initially). Older gloves, or those used in dry climates, may require oiling every 1-2 months. Check your glove regularly; if it feels dry or stiff, it's time for oil.
How much oil should I use?
A little goes a long way! Start with a small amount (a few drops) and apply it sparingly. It's better to add more later if needed than to over-oil your glove, which can make it too soft or sticky.