Why Your Hockey Gloves Smell (And 4 Ways to Get Rid of It)
Let’s be honest — there’s no stench quite like the inside of a well-used pair of hockey gloves. If your gloves smell like a mix of sweat, mildew, and something you can’t even identify, you’re not alone. That foul odor comes from more than just tough games — and if you don’t deal with it properly, it’ll only get worse.
Here’s why your gloves smell so bad — and 4 proven ways to get rid of it.
Your hands sweat a lot while you play. That moisture gets trapped inside your gloves — and because hockey gloves have thick padding and limited airflow, they don’t dry easily. Over time, that warm, damp environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Even worse, if you toss your gloves back into a non-ventilated bag after practice or a game, the moisture lingers for hours (or days), making the smell even stronger. That stink you’re smelling? It’s bacteria and mildew living in the fabric.
One of the easiest and most effective things you can do is also the most overlooked — air your gloves out as soon as you’re done playing. That means don’t just leave them in your bag.
Here’s how to do it:
As soon as you get home, unzip your bag and take your gloves out.
Lay them out in a well-ventilated space, preferably near a fan or in a room with good airflow.
Turn them inside out if possible to let the inner padding dry completely.
Bonus tip: If you’re on the go, get a ventilated hockey bag or hang them outside your car window (safely!) for some fresh air.
Most players don’t realize this, but you can and should wash your gloves every so often to remove built-up sweat and bacteria.
Here’s how to do it safely:
Use a gentle detergent and either hand wash them or put them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water.
If using a machine, place the gloves in a laundry bag or pillowcase to prevent damage.
Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals.
Air dry only — never put them in the dryer. High heat can ruin the padding or shrink the materials.
There are sprays made specifically for deodorizing sports equipment — and they work well when used regularly.
What to do:
Buy a bacteria-fighting gear spray (like ones with tea tree oil, eucalyptus, or natural enzymes).
Spray the inside of your gloves after each use to kill bacteria and neutralize odor.
Or make your own: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or lavender), and spray the inside.
Let the gloves dry completely after spraying.
This sounds weird, but freezing your gloves can actually kill odor-causing bacteria — especially if you’ve got a particularly stubborn stink.
How to do it:
Place your gloves in a plastic bag (to protect your freezer).
Leave them in the freezer overnight.
Remove them the next day and let them air out completely before using.
It’s not a long-term solution, but it works well as a reset if nothing else has helped.
Your hockey gloves smell bad because bacteria love sweat and darkness — and your gear gives them both. But you can fight back. By airing out your gloves, washing them occasionally, using odor-fighting sprays, and even freezing them, you’ll keep your hands — and your teammates — much happier.
A little maintenance goes a long way in making your gear last longer and keeping the stink under control.
