Washing motorcycle gloves & cleaning motorcycle boots – how to care for your equipment properly
Washing motorcycle gloves is not a detail, but part of the regular care of your equipment. Sweat, road grime and weather leave their mark, especially on gloves and motorcycle boots. To ensure that the material lasts a long time and provides reliable protection, it is important to clean and care for them properly. In this article, you will find out how to clean your motorcycle gloves and boots effectively and as gently as possible in a practical and material-friendly way.
The MYCOVER® team clarifies!
Washing motorcycle gloves – what you should bear in mind
Depending on the material, motorcycle gloves require specific and careful care in order to maintain their function and service life. Leather in particular requires special care, as it reacts sensitively to moisture and unsuitable cleaning agents.
Washing and caring for textile gloves
- Carefully wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove light dirt
- Heavy soiling: Hand wash with mild detergent, without rubbing or wringing out
- Do not wash in the washing machine, as the shape and protective function may be damaged
Washing and caring for leather motorcycle gloves
If you want to wash leather motorcycle gloves, use as little water as possible.
- Clean leather gloves with a slightly damp leather cloth without applying pressure
- If necessary, use a special leather care product that does not dry out
- If necessary, use a special leather cleaning agent without a drying effect
- Never dry on a heater or in direct sunlight, as this makes leather brittle and stiff
Soap nuts as a natural alternative to detergent
Soap nuts contain plant-based soaps (saponins) and are an environmentally friendly option for gently cleaning motorcycle clothing, especially sensitive materials such as Gore-Tex. This is because they are biodegradable, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. However, a special cleaner can be more effective for heavy soiling. Ideal for anyone who wants to consciously avoid chemicals.
Clean, care for & waterproof motorcycle boots
Cleaning motorcycle boots is not rocket science either, as long as you adhere to the respective material specifications and follow a few basic care steps, comfort, protection and appearance will be maintained in the long term.
Rough cleaning
- Remove dirt and mud with a soft brush
- Wipe with a damp cloth, use a gentle cleaning agent if necessary
Maintaining motorcycle boots to keep the leather supple
- Grease leather regularly or treat with care cream
- For textile-leather combinations: pay attention to material compatibility
- Care products for motorcycle boots should not contain silicones
Waterproofing motorcycle boots – protection against moisture
- Allow to dry after cleaning (but not directly in the sun)
- Then impregnate: preferably with a spray for breathable materials
- Repeat the process regularly, but especially with frequent contact with rain
Additional care tips
- Zipper care tip: Occasionally rub with a silicone stick or special zipper oil to ensure that the zipper can be opened and closed easily for a long time, even under heavy use.
- Recommended storage: It is best to store in a dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid plastic bags or tight boxes at all costs, as moisture quickly collects in them and mold can form.
- Regularity: Clean and care for your equipment after every long tour or when it is visibly dirty. This effectively prevents damage caused by sweat, oil, dirt or moisture and extends the service life.
Conclusion: How to keep gloves and boots ready for use
Whether leather or textile, with the right care, you can significantly extend the service life of your motorcycle gloves and motorcycle boots. Avoid aggressive cleaning methods, use gentle care products and remember to waterproof your motorcycle boots regularly. As a result, you will be well protected in all weathers and your equipment will stay in top condition.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about cleaning motorcycle boots and gloves
How to wash motorcycle gloves properly?
Motorcycle gloves should always be cleaned by hand with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Then simply leave to air dry, away from radiators or direct sunlight.
Can I wash motorcycle gloves in the washing machine?
No, motorcycle gloves do not belong in the washing machine. The twisting motion can damage protectors, seams or the inner lining. Hand washing is therefore safer and gentle on the material.
How do I care for leather motorcycle gloves after washing?
After drying, you should treat leather gloves with a special leather care product. This keeps the material supple, prevents it from tearing and also keeps it water-repellent.
How do I get odors out of motorcycle gloves?
A gentle hand wash with special detergent (but never in the washing machine) helps to prevent odors. Then leave to dry thoroughly. Textile disinfectant sprays can also help with stubborn sweat odors.
How often should I wash my motorcycle gloves?
Only wash your gloves if necessary, for example if they are very sweaty or dirty. Exceptions to this are tours in summer or in the rain, where more frequent cleaning may be advisable.
How do I clean my motorcycle boots properly?
Motorcycle boots are best cleaned with a soft brush and a little water. However, special cleaning agents for leather or textiles are also good for heavier soiling.
How do I care for leather motorcycle boots?
After cleaning, leather boots should be treated with leather grease or leather care. Make sure that the care product is breathable, especially for boots with a climate membrane.
How do I impregnate motorcycle boots correctly?
Use a waterproofing spray for leather or textiles, preferably applied to clean, dry boots. Spray on well, then leave to soak in and that’s it. This will keep your footwear weatherproof.
How do I dry wet motorcycle boots properly?
It is best to stuff the boots with newspaper and leave them to dry at room temperature. But never place them on a radiator, as this can dry out or deform the material.
How often should I care for my motorcycle boots?
Care for your motorcycle boots regularly after riding in the rain or after heavy soiling. Good care extends the service life and therefore ensures greater comfort on long tours.
