How to Wash Gloves

How to Wash Gloves

Why Glove Care Matters

Gloves accumulate dirt, sweat, bacteria, and oils from daily use faster than most accessories. Washing them correctly keeps them hygienic, extends their lifespan, and maintains their shape and function — whether they're leather dress gloves, wool winter gloves, or rubber cleaning gloves.

Washing by Glove Type

Leather Gloves

Leather gloves should never be submerged in water — it dries out and cracks the leather. Instead:

  • Wear the gloves and wash your hands gently with mild soap and cool water while wearing them
  • Rinse by running cool water over the gloves while still wearing them
  • Gently squeeze out excess water — do not wring
  • Stuff with tissue paper to maintain shape and air dry away from heat and sunlight
  • Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore suppleness

Wool and Cashmere Gloves

  • Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent like Eucalan Fine Fabric Wash
  • Gently squeeze water through — never scrub or wring
  • Rinse in cool water
  • Press between two towels to remove excess water
  • Lay flat to dry, reshaping fingers gently while damp

Cotton and Knit Gloves

  • Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cool water
  • Place in a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching and tangling
  • Air dry flat or tumble dry on low

Rubber and Latex Cleaning Gloves

  • Rinse inside and out with warm water after each use
  • Wash with dish soap and warm water, turning inside out to clean the interior
  • Air dry completely before storing — moisture inside causes odor and mold
  • Store away from direct sunlight, which degrades rubber over time

Touchscreen or Tech Gloves

  • Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent
  • Avoid scrubbing the fingertip areas where conductive material is woven in
  • Air dry flat — never machine dry

How to Remove Stains from Gloves

  • Leather: Dab with a damp cloth and mild soap — never soak
  • Wool/knit: Spot treat with a small amount of gentle detergent before hand washing
  • Cotton: Pre-treat with stain remover, then machine wash on gentle

Quick Tips for Glove Care

  • Air gloves out after every wear before storing
  • Never dry gloves near a radiator or in direct sunlight — heat damages all glove materials
  • Store flat or stuffed with tissue to maintain shape
  • Wash winter gloves at the end of the season before storing

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