You might have heard the phrase “happy feet, happy game.” This is especially true for hockey players who rely heavily on their skates to perform well on the ice. These skates undergo a lot of wear and tear during games and practices, leading to a buildup of dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Hockey skates are definitely not like tissue paper that you use once and throw away. So, you have to take good care of them to make sure they last longer and perform better.
But how to clean hockey skates at home? Of course, you can’t put them in the washing machine or throw them in a dishwasher. That would probably damage the skates beyond repair. So, let’s dive in and explore some easy ways to clean hockey skates right at home.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start cleaning your hockey skates, make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready. This will save you time and effort in between steps. Some important items that you will need are:
- Warm water
- Mild detergent or soap
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
- Towel or paper towels
- Skate guards (optional)
The Stink Solution
6 Steps: How To Clean Hockey Skates At Home?
Follow these 6 steps to make sure your hockey skates stay clean and in great shape:
Step 1. Prepare The Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a bowl or bucket with warm water. Add a few drops of mild detergent or soap to create a soapy solution. It’s important to use a mild soap so that you don’t damage the skate materials. Stir the water gently to mix the soap until a light foam covers the surface. This solution will help break down dirt and grime without harming the skates.
Step 2. Remove The Laces And Insoles
Carefully take out the laces and pull out the insoles from your skates. Removing these parts will make it easier to clean every corner of the skate. You can wash the laces in the soapy water or replace them if they are too worn out. Let the insoles air out, as this will help them stay fresh and reduce bad smells.
Step 3. Clean The Exterior
Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the warm, soapy water and wring it out. Gently wipe down the entire exterior of the skates, focusing on areas with visible dirt or stains. Make sure to clean both the boot and the blade holder. Be careful not to soak the skates, as too much water can cause damage. For stubborn dirt, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub lightly in a circular motion.
Step 4. Clean The Blades
Use a dry towel to gently wipe the blades before you clean them with water. Once any loose dirt is gone, use the soapy solution again with a soft cloth to slowly wipe the blades. This step helps prevent rust and makes sure the blades stay sharp. After cleaning, thoroughly dry the blades with a fresh towel to remove any moisture.
Step 5. Focus On The Interior
Use a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the inside of the boot. Pay extra attention to removing lint, sticky spots, or powdery residue. The toothbrush can come in handy if there are hard-to-reach places or stubborn grime. Dry the interior thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels to prevent mold or bad smells.
Read more: How To Clean The Interior Of Skates?
Step 6. Dry And Reassemble
Place your skates in a well-ventilated area to air dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources that could warp or damage the materials. Make sure both the inside and outside are completely dry. Once dry, put the insoles back in and re-lace your skates. Consider using skate guards to protect the blades when storing or transporting them.
Also Read: Roller Skates Vs Roller Blades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to clean hockey skates at home?
Cleaning hockey skates at home involves using a mild soap solution, wiping down the exterior and blades, and ensuring all parts are thoroughly dried to prevent rust and odor. Remove laces and insoles for better access. Dry completely before reassembling and storing the skates.
Q: How to get rid of smelly skates?
To get rid of smelly skates, sprinkle some baking soda inside and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. You can also use odor-fighting sprays made for sports gear. Make sure to let your skates air out by removing the insoles after each use.
Q: How often should I clean my hockey skates?
Ideally, you should clean your hockey skates after each use. This will help prevent the buildup of dirt, sweat, and bacteria. However, if you play multiple times a week or practice often, cleaning them at least once a week is recommended. Regular cleaning keeps your skates smelling fresh and helps maintain their performance on the ice. So make sure to add skate cleaning to your post-game routine!