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Glove Care FAQ - The Craftsman's Works
What’s the best way to condition a baseball glove?
Use a purpose-made conditioner sparingly after cleaning and drying. The Craftsman’s Works Glove Lotion nourishes pro-grade leather with the highest quality ingredients to replace what the leather has lost over time when used as directed.
How often should I oil or condition my glove?
Light conditioning 2–4 times per season is usually enough. Over-oiling or conditioning can weigh down the leather. Clean first, then apply a thin coat of Glove Lotion or Glove Salve over the entire glove, focusing on where the glove flexes the most.
What’s the difference between glove oil and glove conditioner?
Oils penetrate quickly but can over-soften if overused. Conditioners—like The Craftsman’s Works Glove Salve—combine oils and waxes to moisturize, protect fibers, and help repel moisture with more control.
How do I safely clean a baseball glove?
Brush off dirt, wipe with a barely damp cloth, then use a leather-safe cleaner. Our Leather Spot Cleaner lifts grime and sweat salts without stripping the glove’s natural oils. Do not use high pH soaps or cleaners.
Are household cleaners safe for gloves?
No. Harsh soaps, alcohol, and household cleaners can dry and crack glove leather. Always use glove-specific products formulated for baseball leather. Leather Spot Cleaner from The Craftsman's Works is pH balanced to protect your leather while it cleans.
Will conditioning darken my glove?
Most conditioners slightly deepen color. The Craftsman’s Works Glove Lotion and Glove Salve is designed to minimize darkening—always spot-test first on an inconspicuous area. However, many times leather lightens over time as it loses the oils that were added during the tanning process. Glove Lotion and Glove Salve can add those back in and "darken" the leather back to its original color.
How do I break in a new glove without ruining it?
Play catch and form the pocket gradually. Lightly condition with Glove Lotion in high-flex areas and avoid baking, soaking, or heating your glove—all of which weaken leather fibers and laces.
Can I use olive oil, coconut oil, or petroleum jelly on a glove?
No. Food oils can go rancid, and petroleum jelly traps dirt and over-softens leather. Use a dedicated glove product like The Craftsman’s Works Glove Lotion and Glove Salve instead.
What’s the best in-season glove care routine?
After each game, air-dry your glove, brush off dirt, and wipe away sweat salts. Clean with Leather Spot Cleaner as needed, then apply a light coat of Glove Salve to high-wear areas.
How do I remove water stains or sweat rings?
Clean gently with a leather-safe cleaner like the Leather Spot Cleaner, allow to dry at room temperature, and recondition lightly once dry to restore softness.
Can I use these products on vintage or collectible gloves?
Yes—use minimal product and avoid over-softening. The Craftsman’s Works formulas are collector-friendly when applied sparingly; focus on preservation, not restoration to “like new.”
Are The Craftsman’s Works products safe for all glove leathers?
They’re formulated for common glove leathers—steerhide, kip, and Horween-type cowhide. For suede or exotic panels, test lightly and avoid heavy saturation.
How much cleaner, lotion or salve should I use?
For the Leather Spot Cleaner, a few sprays to dampen a clean rag is usually enough. In areas with heavy dirt and grime, more cleaner can be used.
For Glove Lotion, a nickel-sized amount usually covers the palm or pocket. You may need to add another nickel-sized amount for the back of the glove. Work in thin layers and add more only if the leather immediately absorbs it.
Do you offer repairs, relacing, or custom glove services?
Yes! The Craftsman’s Works offers full-service glove repair, relacing, deep cleaning, and custom builds. Visit our Custom Glove Service page to get started.
Where can I buy The Craftsman’s Works glove care products?
All products are available directly at thecraftsmansworks.com. Limited releases are sometimes announced on our social channels—follow us to stay updated.
What’s your shipping and return policy for glove care products?
Most orders ship within 1–2 business days. Unopened, unused products can be returned within 30 days. See our Shipping & Returns page for full details.













