How to Get Sweat Out of Goalie Equipment

Goalie equipment is designed to protect the body while playing, but does little to protect the olfactory senses when finished. All that padding can trap sweat, a necessary and constant presence when acting as goalie, that can result in stagnant bacteria and fungi, which can be difficult, if not impossible, to remove. Removing sweat from equipment can help to extend the life of costly and crucial gear. Diligent and prompt care for equipment helps to remove sweat, odor and grime.

• 1

  Create a homemade enzyme paste to remove set-in discoloration and odor when treating sweat stains which have been hanging around for awhile. Crush enzyme tablets and add water slowly to the tablets. Continue to mix and add water until the solution has the consistency of a thick paste.

• 2

  Apply the paste to set-in stains on the equipment. Using a generous amount, spread in an even layer. Rub the paste onto the stain with a gentle circular motion. Don't be too aggressive when rubbing the paste as it can damage the delicate fabrics inside helmets and padding.

• 3

  Wait at least one hour, allowing the paste to remain on the stains. Lay the equipment as flat as possible while the paste sets.

• 4

  Wash equipment in a washing machine with a traditional laundry detergent, if possible. For equipment, like helmets and gloves, wash the paste away by hand. First rinse the paste away, then add hand-wash detergent and rinse again. Lay out to dry. White gear can be soaked overnight in hot water and oxygen bleach, as described on product directions, to help remove more stubborn stains, and then laundered in a machine with detergent.

• 5

  Remove equipment and soak stains with shampoo when facing new, fresh stains after a long game or practice. Repeat the gentle rubbing motion, as with the enzyme paste, and launder as usual.