One of the most common questions hockey parents and players ask is simple: how do I clean hockey gear without ruining it?
How to clean hockey gear without ruining it comes down to using the right methods for the right pieces of equipment. Hockey gear absorbs sweat, bacteria, and odor fast, but throwing everything in the washing machine can permanently damage pads, gloves, and helmets. In this guide, we’ll break down the safest way to clean hockey gear at home, what you should and shouldn’t wash, and how to get rid of odor without shortening the life of your equipment.
Dirty hockey gear smells bad, spreads bacteria, and can even cause skin issues if it’s ignored long enough. On top of that, tossing everything into the washing machine usually makes things worse, not better.
The good news is that cleaning hockey gear doesn’t have to be complicated. It is a little time-consuming and not exactly fun, but if you follow the steps below, you can get your gear clean, fresh, and ready for the next skate.
Why Cleaning Hockey Gear Matters
Hockey equipment traps sweat, moisture, and bacteria. If it’s left untreated, that buildup can lead to:
• Strong, lingering odors
• Skin irritation or infections
• Faster breakdown of padding and materials
• A gear bag that smells up your car
Cleaning your gear regularly helps it last longer and keeps players healthier.
Can You Wash Hockey Gear at Home?
Yes, most hockey gear can be cleaned at home, but not everything should be treated the same way.
Some items can safely soak in water. Others should never be fully submerged. The key is knowing what goes where.
Take the smell out of your Gear
Odor Crusher Dry-Clean Closet
The Odor Crusher Dry-Clean Sports Closet is designed to be used to dry gear and remove odor all while your gear is conveniently stored. Simply place your gear in the closet with the Ozone Generator to dry and eliminates moisture in shoes, clothes, and equipment.
- Dry Gear and Removes Odors
- Convenient Storage
- Elimantes Moisture
- Neutralize body odor, stinky pads, gloves and shoes
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The Odor Crusher Dry-Clean Sports Closet is designed to be used to dry gear and remove odor all while your gear is conveniently stored. Simply place your gear in the closet with the Ozone Generator to dry and eliminates moisture in shoes, clothes, and equipment.
- Dry Gear and Removes Odors
- Convenient Storage
- Elimantes Moisture
- Neutralize body odor, stinky pads, gloves and shoes
What You Should and Shouldn’t Soak
Safe to Soak
• Shoulder pads
• Elbow pads
• Shin guards
• Pants and girdles
• Chest protectors
• Under gear (base layers, padded shirts, socks)
Do Not Fully Submerge
• Hockey skates
• Helmets (light wipe only)
• Gloves (use surface cleaning only)
How to Clean Hockey Gear (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Fill a Bathtub with Hot Water
Fill your tub with enough hot water to fully cover the gear you plan to clean. Hot water helps loosen oils and bacteria trapped in padding.
Step 2: Add OxiClean or Odor-Fighting Cleaner
Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of OxiClean or a similar odor-removing cleaner. Mix the water well so the cleaner dissolves completely.
Avoid using regular laundry detergent. It often leaves residue behind.
Step 3: Submerge the Gear
Place your gear into the tub and make sure everything is fully underwater. Heavier items may need to be weighed down.
Again, do not include skates, helmets, or gloves.
Step 4: Let It Soak
Let the gear soak for 10–15 minutes. You’ll probably notice the water turning dark pretty quickly. That’s normal.
Step 5: Drain and Rinse
Remove the gear, drain the tub, and rinse everything thoroughly with clean water.
If the water was extremely dirty, repeat the process until the rinse water is mostly clear.
Step 6: Dry Completely
Drying is just as important as cleaning.
• Air dry gear in a well-ventilated space
• Use fans if possible
• Avoid dryers or direct heat
Gear should be completely dry before going back into a bag.
How to Clean Hockey Gloves
Hockey gloves are tricky because soaking them can break down palm materials.
Best approach:
• Wipe the inside with a damp cloth and mild cleaner
• Use disinfectant spray designed for sports gear
• Let gloves air dry with palms open
Never throw gloves in the washing machine.
How to Clean a Hockey Helmet
Helmets should not be submerged.
Instead:
• Remove removable padding if possible
• Wipe shell and padding with warm water and mild soap
• Let everything air dry fully before reassembly
How Often Should You Clean Hockey Gear?
At a minimum:
• Full clean at the end of the season
• Spot cleaning throughout the season
If a player skates multiple times per week, a mid-season deep clean is a good idea.
How to Keep Hockey Gear from Smelling Between Washes
Cleaning helps, but daily habits matter too.
• Take gear out of the bag immediately
• Hang equipment after every skate
• Use a fan or drying rack
• Never store wet gear in a closed bag
These steps alone can dramatically reduce odor.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning hockey gear isn’t glamorous, but it’s part of the game. With the right process, you can safely clean most equipment at home, extend the life of your gear, and keep everyone healthier.
If you stay on top of drying and occasional deep cleans, you’ll avoid the worst smells and the biggest headaches.
Related: How to clean Goalie Gear.
