Hockey Gear Maintenance: Ultimate Guide
How to maintain hockey equipment so it lasts longer, stays safe, and doesn’t smell. Skates, sticks, pads, and storage—all in one place.
Quick Summary: Dry gear after every use, wipe down skates and blades, replace skate laces and stick tape when worn, and store equipment in a ventilated place. Small habits add up to longer-lasting gear and fewer odors. For replacement timing, see how often to replace hockey equipment.
Why Hockey Gear Maintenance Matters
Well-maintained equipment lasts longer, protects better, and stays more comfortable. Wet, packed gear breeds bacteria and odor, and worn laces or tape can affect performance and safety. A simple routine after each skate and a bit of weekly care go a long way. For new players, pair this with our complete hockey equipment checklist.
Skates: Ice and Inline
After every skate: Wipe blades (or inline wheels and frames) with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Remove insoles if possible and let them and the boot interior air-dry. Never leave skates in a closed bag while wet.
Laces: Replace when frayed, stretched, or no longer holding tight. Quality waxed laces last longer. See 5 signs you need new hockey skate laces.
Ice skates: Dry blades after use to avoid rust. Sharpen when edges feel dull (often every 5–10 hours of ice time).
Inline skates: Clean and lube bearings every 2–4 weeks. Full steps in our how to clean and maintain inline skate bearings guide.
Stick and Tape
Re-tape the blade when tape is torn, soaked, or losing grip. Use proper hockey stick tape (not athletic or duct tape—see hockey tape vs sports tape). Add stick wax for grip and a bit of water resistance. Wipe the shaft with a damp cloth to remove buildup. Store sticks at room temperature, not in a hot car or cold garage, to protect the composite.
Protective Gear: Pads, Gloves, Helmet
After every use: Hang pads and gloves so air can circulate. Use a drying rack or open bag. Never leave wet gear packed in a closed bag.
Cleaning: Wipe hard surfaces (helmet shell, pad exteriors) with a damp cloth. Use gear spray or diluted vinegar on pads to cut odor. Wash removable liners per manufacturer instructions. Don’t machine-wash padded gear with non-removable foam/plastic—it can break down.
Shin guards: Use shin guard tape to keep them in place; replace tape when it loses stick.
Helmet: Don’t submerge or machine-wash. Wipe shell and cage/visor; clean straps with a damp cloth. Replace after any significant impact or per the maker’s guidelines.
Base Layers and Socks
Wash base layers, jock/jill, and socks after every use. Use moisture-wicking fabrics and avoid leaving them balled up in the bag. Clean gear next to skin = less odor and irritation.
Bag and Storage
Use a bag with ventilation (mesh panels or open design). When you get home, empty the bag and hang or spread gear to dry. Let the bag air out too. Store gear in a cool, dry place—not a hot trunk or damp basement. For a full timeline on when to replace each piece, read how often you should replace hockey equipment.
Quick Maintenance Checklist
- • After every skate: Air-dry all gear; wipe blades/frames; remove insoles from skates
- • Weekly: Check laces and stick tape; wipe down skates and stick
- • Every 2–4 weeks: Clean inline bearings (if applicable); wash base layers and socks regularly
- • As needed: Replace laces, re-tape stick, sharpen blades, deep-clean pads
Maintenance Essentials from Crossbar
Keep your setup in top shape with quality tape, laces, and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean hockey gear?
Wipe down hard surfaces (skates, helmet, stick) with a damp cloth. Wash removable liners, base layers, and socks in the machine. Hang pads and gloves to air-dry after every use. Use a gear spray or diluted vinegar on pads to reduce odor. Never put helmets or skates in the washing machine.
How often should you maintain hockey equipment?
Air out and dry gear after every use. Wipe skates and blades weekly. Replace stick tape and check laces as needed (every few weeks to months). Deep-clean pads and wash base layers every few weeks. Sharpen skates every 5-10 hours of ice time. See a full replacement schedule in our equipment lifespan guide.
Why does my hockey gear smell so bad?
Smell comes from bacteria growing in sweat and moisture. Always air-dry gear after use—never leave it packed in a bag. Use a well-ventilated bag, gear spray, or anti-microbial dryer. Wash what's washable regularly. The single best fix is drying gear quickly and completely after every skate.
Can you wash hockey pads?
Do not machine-wash padded gear with plastic or foam—it can warp and break down. Wipe exterior with damp cloth and use gear cleaner or diluted vinegar. Remove and machine-wash any removable liners per the manufacturer's instructions. Air-dry everything thoroughly.