How to Clean Hockey Gear

a hockey player in his gear in the locker room

Cleaning your hockey gear might not be the highlight of the season, but it’s a key part of staying game-ready. Proper care helps cut down the post-practice stink, extends the life of your equipment, and keeps you focused on your performance. Our Hockey Experts put together a simple guide to help you clean and maintain your gear the right way—so you can keep everything in top shape, season after season.

Prevent the Stink Before It Starts

The best way to deal with smelly gear is to stop the stink before it sets in. While it's a good idea to deep clean your gear monthly, these daily habits will help you keep things fresh between washes.

After every use, wipe out sweat with a clean cloth.
Use an equipment disinfectant spray to spray your gear with, then wipe it down again.
Instead of leaving your gear in your bag, hang it on a drying rack immediately after use.
Wear sweat-wicking base layers to improve airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Consider using a boot or glove dryer to thoroughly dry out these hard-to-reach areas.

Washing Methods

Machine Wash

Machine washing is a quick way to clean many items of your gear. Do not put hard equipment like helmets or skates in the washing machine. If your gear is especially grimy, consider soaking it first in a tub with a cup of white vinegar and water, or a sports detergent like Sweat X, before putting it in the wash.

What Can You Machine Wash?

Washing Instructions:

Close all Velcro straps to prevent them from snagging other fabrics.
Remove any insert liners and wash them separately for a more thorough clean.
Use a gentle or delicate cycle with warm water and a sports detergent.
After the wash is complete, tumble dry on low heat. If you're unsure about a specific piece of equipment, it's always safer to air dry. Avoid putting your gloves in the dryer, as it can damage the leather.

Hand Washing

Hand washing is a great option for more delicate items. Follow the same rules as machine washing: close all Velcro straps, separate any liners, and use vinegar and a gentle sports detergent.

Washing Instructions

Fill a tub or sink with warm water, detergent, and vinegar.
Soak your gear for 45 to 60 minutes.
Using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down the gear and rinse thoroughly.
Hang the equipment on a drying rack and let it air dry completely.

Cleaning Hard Equipment

Skates

After each practice or game, remove the insoles and hang them to dry. Spray the inside and outside of your skates with a mixture of vinegar and water or a sports odor spray, and wipe them down. Hang them on a drying rack or place them on a boot dryer.

Helmets

Remove the facemask and chin strap, and wipe down the helmet with a disinfectant spray or wipes. Next, use a soft sponge with a gentle shampoo and water to clean the inside and outside of the helmet. Rinse it thoroughly, then let it air dry completely.

Goalie Gear

Goalie gear has many layers, making it a bit more challenging to clean. To avoid fully submerging the gear, use a sponge with cold water and a gentle sports detergent to clean the dirty areas. Be sure to let everything air dry completely.

Shop Wash Treatments

Keeping your gear clean doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes consistency and the right approach. By following these proven steps, you’ll protect your investment, improve your comfort on the ice, and reduce unwanted odors. If you have more questions, stop by your local SCHEELS and speak with a Hockey Expert.