How to Clean and Dry Hockey Equipment

Published: 14. 8. 2026 15:06

Equipment care

Clean hockey equipment does not start with aggressive washing. Unpacking it regularly, allowing air to circulate and following the manufacturer's care instructions make the biggest difference.

Quick answer

After every session, remove your equipment from the bag as soon as possible, open it up and let it air-dry completely. Wash base layers, socks and other textiles according to their care labels. Gently wipe the helmet, skates and any item that the manufacturer does not approve for washing. Always check the instructions for the specific model before washing protective equipment.

Quick navigation After every session What can be washed Deep cleaning Visor care Common mistakes FAQ

The basic routine

What to do with your gear right after skating

Do not leave wet equipment sealed in the bag. Unpack everything at home, undo straps and zips, and spread the pieces out so air can reach them. Open the bag as well and allow the inside to dry.

1. Put base layers, socks, the towel and jersey aside for washing according to their labels.

2. Undo the protective gear and lay it out or hang it so damp surfaces are not folded together.

3. Wipe the skate blades dry, loosen the laces and pull the tongues forward to ventilate the boots.

Sort the equipment

What can go in the washing machine and what needs hand cleaning

The care label or the instructions for the specific item decide. Do not machine-wash pads, gloves or pants without checking first. Foams, reinforcements, adhesives and outer materials differ between models.

Textiles that are commonly washable

Wash base layers, hockey socks, jerseys, towels and removable textile liners exactly as stated on their care labels. Fasten hook-and-loop tabs so they do not catch other materials, and do not exceed the recommended temperature.

Pads, gloves and pants

If the manufacturer permits washing, use the specified gentle programme and method. If the label is missing or unreadable, gently wiping the surface with a soft cloth, water and a small amount of mild cleaner is safer than risking damage to protective components.

Helmet and skates

Do not submerge the helmet or skates and do not put them in a washing machine. Wipe accessible inner and outer surfaces with a damp cloth as instructed by the manufacturer, then let them dry completely. Do not use solvents on the helmet or make unauthorised changes to its foams.

The safer choice

When in doubt, choose the gentler method

The manufacturer explicitly permits washing

Follow the stated temperature, programme and drying method. Do not substitute the instructions for a similar model.

The instructions are missing or washing is not permitted

Clean the item gently by hand without soaking it, then let it dry at room temperature with good airflow. Contact the manufacturer or retailer if you are unsure.

Step-by-step care

How to deep-clean hockey equipment

1. Sort the equipment

Separate ordinary textiles, washable protective gear and items intended only for wiping. Check the manufacturer's instructions for each group.

2. Prepare washable items

Empty pockets, secure removable parts as instructed and fasten hook-and-loop tabs. Use only the detergent and programme allowed by the label.

3. Hand-clean hard parts

Use a cloth to remove sweat and dirt from helmets, pads and skates that must not be washed. The cloth should be damp, not dripping wet.

4. Let everything dry completely

Spread the gear out in a well-ventilated area. Use a radiator, hot air or tumble dryer only if the specific manufacturer explicitly permits it.

5. Check the condition

Before storing the gear, inspect seams, straps, buckles, rivets, liners and protective shells. Have a damaged protective item assessed or replace it; cleaning does not restore its protective function.

Skates

How to prevent skate blades from rusting

After leaving the ice, remove hard walking guards and wipe the blades thoroughly with a dry cloth. Hard guards can trap moisture against the steel, so do not use them for storage.

Use dry fabric blade covers for transport and ventilate the skates at home. If the fabric covers are wet, dry them separately.

Visors and full-face shields

How to clean a hockey visor safely

Clean the visor gently and without heavy pressure. Loose particles can scratch the surface when rubbed dry, so remove them first and follow the instructions for the specific visor, especially when it has anti-fog or another surface treatment.

1. Remove loose dirt

Gently rinse away dust and particles or remove them as recommended by the manufacturer. Do not start by rubbing the dry surface firmly.

2. Use a visor-specific product

Hejduk Antifog Spray is designed for hockey visors. According to its product description, it helps prevent fogging while removing fingerprints, grease and dried sweat.

3. Wipe with a clean soft cloth

Use a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Tissues, gloves and other abrasive materials can leave fine scratches on the surface.

4. Let it dry and protect it in the bag

Let the visor dry completely before storage. Position the helmet so the visor does not rub against skates, tools or sharp edges on other equipment.

View Hejduk Antifog Visor Spray

What to avoid

Five mistakes that are hard on hockey gear

Leaving everything in a closed bag: damp pieces have no airflow around them.

Washing without checking the label: models in the same category may have different care instructions.

Drying on a radiator: high heat may damage some foams, adhesives, reinforcements or covers.

Using a heavily scented spray instead of cleaning: fragrance may mask odour but does not remove sweat and dirt.

Storing equipment while it is still damp: every item must be completely dry before closing the bag or storing it for the off-season.

Frequently asked questions

Hockey equipment cleaning in practice

How often should hockey equipment be cleaned?

Unpack and dry it after every use. Wash textiles worn directly against the body after every session. Adjust deeper cleaning of other items to their use, level of dirt and the manufacturer's instructions.

Can hockey pads go in a washing machine?

Only if the label or the instructions for that specific item permit it. Without this confirmation, choose gentle wiping by hand and air-drying.

How should a hockey helmet be cleaned?

Do not submerge or machine-wash it. Wipe accessible areas with a soft damp cloth as instructed by the manufacturer, allow the helmet to air-dry and do not use solvents.

What should be used to clean a hockey visor?

Use a visor-specific product and a clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid tissues, abrasive materials and unverified chemicals. Follow the visor manufacturer's instructions when a surface coating is present.

Does an odour neutraliser help?

Yes, it can complement regular care, but it does not replace unpacking, drying and cleaning. Hejduk Odor Absorber is a 250 ml product intended for neutralising odours in places such as footwear, skates and sports facilities. Use it according to its instructions.

How should equipment be stored after the season?

Clean it, dry it completely and inspect it first. Store it in a dry, ventilated place and do not leave wet fabric blade covers on the skates.

Easier drying

Give every piece enough airflow

If you regularly dry a full set or equipment for several players, a dedicated rack makes it easier to organise individual pieces and expose them to moving air. Choose the solution according to the amount of equipment, available space and product instructions.

View the Winnwell Dry Rak

Odour care

When to use Hejduk Odor Absorber

After cleaning and drying, you can add an odour neutraliser to your routine. Hejduk Odor Absorber contains 250 ml and is intended for footwear, skates, changing rooms and other sports areas.

Do not use it instead of cleaning. Remove dirt first, let the equipment dry and apply the product only as described in its instructions.

View Hejduk Odor Absorber

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