Glove Care

KEEPING YOUR RACING GLOVES IN PEAK CONDITION

Your racing gloves are an investment in your performance. Proper care extends their lifespan, maintains their performance, and protects your investment.

DAILY CARE ROUTINE

After Every Session

1. Remove immediately: Don't leave gloves on your hands after racing. They need to breathe and dry.
2. Air dry: Hang your gloves in a well-ventilated area. Don't seal them in a bag or container while damp.
3. Check for damage: Look for loose stitches, tears, or areas of concern that might need attention.

WEEKLY MAINTENANCE

Spot Cleaning

After 2-3 racing sessions, perform spot cleaning:

1. Mix cleaning solution: Lukewarm water and a few drops of mild liquid detergent
2. Focus on problem areas:
   • Inner palm (where sweat accumulates)
   • Between fingers
   • Wrist area
3. Work the fabric gently: Use your fingers or a soft brush on the fabric. On the silicone, wipe lightly with a microfiber cloth instead of scrubbing
4. Rinse thoroughly: Run clean water over the area until soap is completely gone. Soap residue leaves a film on the grip
5. Air dry: Lay flat in a ventilated area

MONTHLY DEEP CLEANING

Hand Washing Procedure

Every 2-4 weeks, perform a full hand wash:

1. Fill sink with lukewarm water (30°C at most; heat damages materials)
2. Add a few drops of mild liquid detergent (gentle liquid detergent or plain dish soap; no bleach, no softener, no biological powders)
3. Submerge gloves for 5-10 minutes to loosen sweat and dirt
4. Wash gently:
   • Work the fabric with your hands, or a soft brush on textured fabric areas
   • Wipe the silicone on the palms and fingers lightly with your fingers or a microfiber cloth
   • Don't scrub the palms against each other or with a brush
5. Rinse multiple times:
   • Run clean water through the gloves
   • Continue until water runs completely clear
   • No soap residue should remain
6. Remove excess water:
   • Press the water out (don't wring or twist)
   • Never use a washing machine spin cycle
   • Lay the gloves on a dry towel, roll it up with them inside, and press
7. Air dry completely:
   • Lay flat on a clean, dry surface
   • Ensure good airflow
   • Never use direct heat or sunlight
   • Can take 24-48 hours for complete drying

For the full method, and why machine washing damages the grip, see How to Wash Your Sim Racing Gloves.

HANDLING SPECIFIC ISSUES

Odor Control

If your gloves develop an odor:

1. Vinegar soak: 1 part white vinegar + 3 parts water, soak for 30 minutes, rinse thoroughly
2. Baking soda: Sprinkle inside gloves, let sit overnight, shake out powder
3. Activated charcoal: Store small bags of activated charcoal with your gloves
4. Prevention: Regular spot cleaning prevents odor from developing

Grip Degradation

If the silicone grip feels slippery:

1. Check for a film first. If the silicone is still intact, it is usually coated in hand oils, wheel dust, or softener residue. Wipe it firmly with a microfiber cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70% or 99%) and let it dry. The tack comes back
2. If the silicone has peeled, cracked, or worn through to the fabric, that section is finished. Plan for replacement, because worn grip significantly impacts performance
3. Proper care prevents premature wear:
   • Avoid excessive heat during drying
   • Keep grip dry between sessions
   • Regular cleaning prevents salt buildup

Stitching Issues

If stitches are coming loose:

1. Address immediately: loose stitches can unravel quickly
2. For minor fraying:
   • Apply a small amount of clear fabric glue to loose thread
   • Let dry completely before wearing
3. For significant damage:
   • Professional repair may be possible
   • Or plan for replacement if damage is extensive

Stretched or Loose Fit

If gloves are stretching out:

1. This indicates wear: the material is degrading
2. Cannot be reversed: stretched materials won't return to original shape
3. Plan for replacement: a loose fit compromises performance and grip

WHAT NOT TO DO

Don't:

• Use washing machines (even on gentle cycle)
• Use hot water (damages materials)
• Use bleach or harsh chemicals
• Wring or twist forcefully
• Dry in direct sunlight (fades and damages)
• Use high heat (hair dryer, radiator, etc.)
• Store in sealed containers while damp
• Use fabric softener
• Iron or apply direct heat

STORAGE BEST PRACTICES

Location

Store gloves in a location that is:

• Cool and dry
• Well-ventilated
• Away from direct sunlight
• Away from heat sources
• Humidity-controlled

Storage Containers

Use breathable storage:

• Open shelf or hook
• Mesh storage bag
• Breathable fabric case
• Container with ventilation holes

Avoid:

• Airtight sealed containers
• Plastic bags (trap moisture)
• Damp environments

Between-Session Storage

• Air dry completely, flat, before storing (24+ hours)
• Only store once completely dry
• Ensure good airflow around gloves

SEASONAL STORAGE

Off-Season Storage

If storing gloves for extended periods:

1. Ensure completely dry before storing
2. Clean thoroughly to remove any sweat or dirt
3. Store in cool, dry location
4. Check periodically for signs of mold or odor
5. Air out before next use

REPLACEMENT TIMELINE

Quality gloves typically last:

• Light use (casual): 18-24 months
• Regular use (2-3x weekly): 12-18 months
• Heavy use (daily/competitive): 6-12 months

Replace when:

• Silicone grip is worn smooth
• Stitching is noticeably loose or fraying
• Fit feels significantly stretched
• Performance is noticeably degraded
• Lap times are suffering due to grip issues

MAINTENANCE SUMMARY

Daily: Air dry after every session

Weekly: Spot clean problem areas

Monthly: Full hand wash

As needed: Address specific issues (odor, stitching, etc.)

Long-term: Plan for replacement based on use intensity

Proper care keeps your gloves performing at their peak and extends their lifespan significantly. Invest the small amount of time required, and your gloves will serve you well.