How to Wash Gloves Without Ruining the Fit, From Leather to Knit

A new pair of gloves can feel downright luxurious—the fit, the feel, the warmth from the winter chill. The challenge comes in keeping them in great condition after they've seen some wear. Inevitably, your gloves will need to be cleaned, and the proper technique will help ensure that they don't lose their shape.

Because there are so many types of gloves, all the way from leather to cashmere, you'll want to match the best method of cleaning to your particular pair. Below, find the material of your gloves and their specific step-by-step cleaning instructions.

PSA: Gloves Need to Be Regularly Cleaned

"Gloves are more than just accessories," says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. "They protect your hands from cold, moisture, dirt, chemicals, friction, and other hazards."

Since gloves naturally trap sweat, oils, and dirt, a regular, thorough clean helps keep hands healthier. But thoughtful, intentional care is key to success: Improper washing methods can shrink wool gloves or dry and crack leather pairs. "Gloves often have waterproofing, insulation, or grip coatings that harsh detergents, high heat, or rough washing can damage, ultimately making gloves less effective," adds Sokolowski.

Regular, gentle care prevents premature wear and tear, helping your favorite pairs remain durable and reliable season after season.

About the Fabric Care Label

How you care for your gloves depends entirely on what they’re made out of. While it may be natural instinct to check the item's fabric care label, gloves are actually exempt from the Care Labeling Act, explains laundry care expert Mary Gagliardi.

“Fortunately, many clothing companies do voluntarily provide care instructions, so whenever possible, start with the care label for washing instructions,” she says.

How to Clean Knit Gloves

Including: cotton and acrylic

For knit gloves, gentle hand washing is recommended. "Although flexible, knit gloves are prone to stretching and shrinking," says Sokolowski. "Hand washing allows better control over water temperature and agitation."

1. Fill a sink or basin with cold water.
2. Add 1- 2 teaspoons of mild detergent and mix.
3. Submerge the gloves and gently swish them around, avoiding scrubbing or twisting. Let soak for 5 -10 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water until no soapy residue remains.
5. Press out excess water gently. (Do not wring!) Lay the gloves flat on a towel. Gently roll the towel to absorb more water, then unroll and reshape the gloves.
6. Air-dry flat, away from direct sunlight or heat.

How to Clean Leather Gloves

“For leather gloves, surface cleaning and conditioning are the most efficient care methods,” says Sokolowski. Because leather is sensitive to water and heat, these types of gloves should never be fully submerged.

1. Mix a small amount of castile soap with lukewarm water.
2. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and wring it out until it’s damp, not soaked.
3. Gently wipe the leather's surface, focusing on soiled areas.
4. Use a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
5. Pat dry with a towel. Do not twist or wring the material.
6. Let gloves air-dry naturally, away from heat sources.
7. Once dry, apply a thin layer of leather conditioner to maintain suppleness.

For best results, Gagliardi recommends getting leather gloves (including those with leather accents) professionally cleaned once per year.

How to Clean Lined Gloves and Wool Gloves

Including: fleece, wool, or synthetic insulation

Wool gloves are particularly sensitive to heat, and "lined gloves require care to protect both the outer shell and the inner insulation," says Sokolowski. "Therefore, we recommend only gently hand washing with the gloves inside out."

1. Turn the gloves inside out before hand washing.
2. Use cold water and a mild, wool-safe detergent.
3. Gently agitate only; make sure you do not twist or wring the gloves.
4. Air-dry flat to prevent insulation from clumping or fabric from snagging or pilling.

How to Clean Sportswear (or Performance Fabric) Gloves

Sportswear gloves come in many shapes and varieties. How they are cleaned “depends on their fiber type and construction,” says Gagliardi. For example, some may be treated with a water repellent finish that shouldn't be treated with water.

Some other gloves for running and exercising may allow machine washing on the delicate cycle. Fabric softener and bleach should be avoided to protect moisture-wicking capabilities.

1. Always check the care label (if one exists) for manufacturer-specific instructions.
2. Fill a basin with cold water and add a gentle laundry detergent.
3. Submerge gloves, agitate gently, and allow to soak for 5-10 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove all detergent.
5. Press out excess water gently, avoiding twisting the material.
6. Air-dry flat or hang by fingertips away from heat sources.
7. Optional: Once the gloves are dry, apply a fabric-safe water-repellent spray to restore performance.