My kids just moved up from learning baseball to ‘real baseball’ in Little League. We are keeping score and the competitive juices are flowing. I figured it was time to get them a real baseball glove. I got them a new 44 Glove and they are pumped about it. However they soon found out the joy of breaking in their own glove. There are several methods to breaking in gloves.
Steaming a baseball glove is an effective method for breaking in a new glove, as well as enhancing the fit of an old one. This process is simple and only requires a few items and a bit of patience. It allows the leather and seams of the glove to become more flexible, ultimately facilitating better performance on the field.
Before attempting to steam your glove, it’s important to understand the proper technique to avoid potential damage to the glove. While there are various ways to break in a glove, steaming has proven to be a popular and efficient method among players.
By following a step-by-step guide on how to properly steam your glove, you can ensure that your glove is game-ready in no time. This technique has been widely used by professionals, and it can be easily implemented at home or with the help of a skilled technician, such as those found at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Contents
Gathering Materials
To steam a baseball glove, you need to gather some essential materials. Start by collecting a clean towel, which will be used to wrap the baseball glove during the steaming process. Make sure the towel is large enough to cover the entire glove.
Next, you’ll need a heat source to create steam. A conventional steamer, similar to those used for steaming garments, can be used. If such a steamer is not available, a large pot with a steamer basket can be used as an alternative. Ensure that the pot is large enough to accommodate the glove wrapped in a towel.
Other materials that should be prepared include a heat-resistant glove to handle the hot glove after steaming, a soft cloth for wiping off excess moisture, and a baseball or glove mallet to help with forming the glove’s pocket. Optionally, you can also use glove conditioner or oil to further soften the glove and protect the leather.
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, you can proceed to the next step in steaming your baseball glove. Remember to use caution and follow proper safety measures when dealing with hot steam and heated objects.
Choosing the Right Steaming Device
When it comes to steaming a baseball glove, there is a variety of devices that can be used to achieve the desired results. In this section, we will explore three popular options: professional steaming machines, portable handheld steamers, and steam cleaners.
Professional Steaming Machines
Professional steaming machines are designed specifically for baseball glove steaming, and can be found at sporting goods stores like DICK’S Sporting Goods. These machines deliver consistent heat and steam levels, ensuring the glove becomes more malleable at key break-in points. However, professional steaming machines can be expensive and may not be a practical solution for individual glove owners.
Portable Handheld Steamers
Portable handheld steamers are more affordable and versatile options for steaming a baseball glove. While they may not be specifically designed for glove steaming, they can still effectively loosen the leather and make the glove more malleable. Handheld steamers are also compact and easily stored, making them a convenient choice for home use.
Steam Cleaners
Steam cleaners, like those used for cleaning floors and upholstery, can also be utilized for steaming baseball gloves. They generate steam at high temperatures, which helps to break in the glove. However, using a steam cleaner requires caution, as excessive steam and heat can potentially damage the glove. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the glove is not exposed to steam for longer than necessary.
Each of the above devices can efficiently steam a baseball glove, but it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each to determine which option is best suited for your needs.
Preparing the Glove
Before steaming a baseball glove, it’s important to prepare the glove properly. This involves adjusting the laces and applying conditioning oil to the leather. These steps will help ensure that the steaming process is effective and does not damage the glove.
Adjusting the Laces
Start by examining the laces on the glove. If they appear loose or frayed, you may need to tighten or replace them. Tightening the laces can help the glove maintain its shape during the steaming process. To tighten the laces:
- Locate the end of the lace nearest to the loose area.
- Pull on the lace to remove any slack, working your way towards the loose area.
- Repeat this process until the lace is snug and secure.
If the laces are frayed or damaged, consider replacing them with new laces to ensure the glove remains in good condition.
Applying Conditioning Oil
Applying conditioning oil to the glove helps open the pores in the leather, allowing the steam to penetrate more effectively. This step is important, as it helps soften the glove and makes it more pliable during the steaming process.
Follow these steps to apply conditioning oil to your glove:
- Use a clean cloth or sponge to apply a small amount of glove conditioner to the glove’s leather surfaces. Avoid over-saturating the glove, as this can damage the leather.
- Gently massage the conditioner into the leather, paying special attention to any areas that feel particularly stiff or dry.
- Allow the glove to sit for a few minutes to absorb the conditioner before moving on to the steaming process.
Properly preparing your glove will help ensure the steaming process is successful and leaves your glove game-ready.
Steaming Process
Steaming a baseball glove helps soften the leather, making it more comfortable and easier to break in. This section will guide you through the steps involved in the steaming process, including setting up the steamer, steaming the glove, and molding and shaping it.
Setting Up the Steamer
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials: a steamer or pot with boiling water, a bowl, water, and soap. If you’re using a steamer, make sure it’s ready to go and producing steam. If you’re using a pot of boiling water, place a colander or steaming basket over the pot to hold the glove above the water.
Steaming the Glove
Hold the glove above the steam, allowing it to penetrate the leather for 1-2 minutes, or until the leather feels softer and more pliable. Be careful not to touch the water or allow the glove to get too close to the boiling water, as this can damage the leather.
Molding and Shaping
After steaming, carefully remove the glove from the heat and let it cool for a moment. Once it’s safe to handle, gently massage the leather to work it, focusing on the pocket, hinge points, and seams. This will help shape and mold the glove to deliver a custom fit. If you’d like, you can also use a baseball or softball to help shape the pocket of the glove during this step (source).
Remember that steaming is optional and not always necessary, especially for high-end gloves with better leather quality (source).
Post-Steaming Care
After steaming your baseball glove, proper post-steaming care ensures the best results and helps maintain the glove’s condition. This section will discuss two essential aspects of post-steaming care: drying the glove and providing storage tips.
Drying the Glove
Once the steaming process is complete, it is essential to dry the glove thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew from forming. To do this, follow these steps:
- Place the glove on a clean, dry surface, such as a towel, in a well-ventilated area.
- Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to gently blot the glove as needed, removing excess moisture.
- Do not use heat sources, such as hair dryers, to speed up the drying process, as this can damage the glove’s leather.
- Allow the glove to air dry fully, which may take up to 24 hours. Ensure it is completely dry before storing or using it.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the shape and longevity of your baseball glove. To store your glove correctly, consider these tips:
- Store your glove in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight or damp environments.
- Use a glove wrap, ball, or rolled-up sock to maintain the glove’s shape in storage. Place the object in the glove’s pocket, and secure the glove with a rubber band or belt.
- Avoid storing the glove under heavy objects, which may cause it to lose its shape.
- Regularly check on the glove’s condition, particularly during periods of extended storage, to ensure it remains in optimal shape and free of any mold, mildew, or other issues.
By paying attention to the drying process after steaming and implementing proper storage techniques, you can help maintain your baseball glove’s performance and longevity.
Maintenance and Tips
Regular care and maintenance are essential for keeping your steamed baseball glove in excellent condition. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your glove remains pliable and comfortable for optimal performance on the field.
Firstly, it’s important to store your glove properly when not in use. Wrap your glove around a ball and secure it with a glove wrap or an elastic band. This helps maintain the glove’s shape and prevents creases from forming.
Keep your glove clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth after each game or practice. Removing dirt and sweat is crucial for maintaining the leather’s durability and suppleness. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the glove’s surface.
Condition the glove periodically with a leather conditioner designed specifically for baseball gloves. Conditioning helps to maintain the leather’s moisture content, preventing it from drying out and cracking over time. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the conditioner.
Practice proper break-in techniques for your glove by gently shaping and softening the leather. Avoid using extreme methods, such as microwaving or soaking in water, as these can damage the glove’s structure and lifespan. Instead, use a mallet or your hands to work the glove’s hinge points and shape the pocket.
Finally, be patient with the break-in process. Steaming your glove can expedite the process, but it still takes time and regular use for a glove to mold to your hand and develop the ideal pocket. Remember that consistent care and proper maintenance will help your glove perform at its best for many seasons to come.