How to Cleanse Your Sports Equipment during COVID-19

Sports equipment such as pads, gear bags, jerseys, gloves, and shoes are breeding grounds for bacteria and can produce a bad odor. Cleaning them regularly helps to contain the spread of bacteria or viruses. You might think that these sports accessories do not need to be cleaned after each use. However, the truth is that you are exposing yourself to bacterial or viral infections by wearing dirty clothing and outerwear such as shoes, hats, and gloves. Also, now, cleaning and disinfecting become even more critical due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here are a few tips for sanitizing and disinfecting your sports equipment:

Washing Pads and Gear

• Clean and disinfect gear with the spray recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use against the COVID-19 virus. Let the gear thoroughly dry.

• Wash your pads and bags in the washing machine using laundry detergent. Make sure to wash them with a gentle setting, as the mixer may damage your sports equipment. Set the washer to a large load, heavy soil level, and pre-wash.

• Wash football shoulder pads in a pillowcase while tying the open end.

• Do not use the machine to dry sports equipment, as it can damage them. Instead, hang them and use a fan to dry them.

• Use the spray to clean your helmets and make sure to focus on the chin guards. For deep cleaning, mix baby shampoo and warm water and use a toothbrush or sponge to clean the crannies and nooks of the helmet.

• Clean your skates, shoes, and cleats after each use and dry them thoroughly. You can wash your insoles in the machine, but they need to be replaced periodically.

Washing Sports Clothes and Uniforms

• Use sports-specific detergents to wash your sports clothes and uniforms. Use the right amount of detergent, as using too much fabric softener and detergent can lead to a build-up that absorbs more odors.

• Mix one cup of white vinegar with a half cup of detergent to wash away the build-up and odors.

• Wash your sports clothing in cold water. Add a half-cup of baking soda or vinegar for washing away the pungent loads.

• Thoroughly dry the elastic sports clothing like baseball and football pants.

Sterilizing Equipment

• Make sure to properly wash your hands with a hand sanitizer before and after every practice session.

• Clean your sports equipment with disinfectant sprays and wipes recommended by the EPA to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

• Clean and disinfect frequently used sports equipment, including bats, balls, pads, and more at least once a day or between uses. Limit sharing your sports equipment with others as much as possible or if shared, make sure to clean them before and after use by each player.

• Label your sports equipment bag to avoid mix-ups.

At Pro-Tuff Decals, we have a wide range of personalized sports equipment and apparel to fit your budget and specific needs. We strictly follow safety measures while designing, handling, and delivering the products by making sure they are sanitized. Contact us today to place an order for your sports equipment!