When the snow thaws and the weather warms up, it's crucial to properly pack away your winter gear—and that includes your gloves. Taking the time to care for and store your gloves correctly during the off-season can extend the lifespan of your favourite pair. Whether your Brume gloves are crafted from synthetic materials or fine leather, this guide will help you effectively clean, dry, and store them.

Why summer glove care matters

At the end of the season, most people store their winter gloves in a drawer or box. This can result in stiffness, loss of shape, and even mold growth when the next snowfall arrives. Taking a few minutes to properly care for your gloves can prevent damage, maintain insulation, and keep them looking great for years to come.

Step 1: Identify your glove material

Prior to cleaning or storing your gloves, it is essential to check the material they are made from.

· Synthetic gloves are frequently crafted from materials such as polyester, nylon, fleece, or other technical fabrics.

· Leather gloves may be either full leather or feature leather trims, valued for their durability and luxurious feel.

Most gloves include a care label inside, offering guidance on the appropriate cleaning technique.

Step 2: How to clean synthetic winter gloves

If your gloves are machine washable (check the label):

- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water.

- Use mild detergent (avoid bleach or fabric softeners).

- Close all Velcro, zippers, and snaps before washing.

If your gloves are not machine washable:

- Handwash with cold water.

- Use mild detergent (avoid bleach or fabric softener).

- Close all Velcro, zippers, and snaps before washing.

Drying Tips:

Tumble dry on low or medium heat.

If the label advises against tumble drying, lay flat and air dry away from direct

sunlight or heaters.

Pro Tip: Use dryer balls to restore shape and maintain warmth in synthetic insulation.

Cleaning and caring for leather gloves

To properly clean and care for your leather gloves, follow these steps:

Start by spot cleaning

- Use a soft cloth lightly dampened with water.

- Gently wipe away dirt from the leather.

- If needed, apply a small amount of high-fat soap (such as saddle soap) to remove stains.

For heavily soiled gloves:

-Wear the gloves and briefly soak them in warm water.

- Apply a mild soap with high natural fat content (such as saddle soap).

- Gently rub and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.

- Gently squeeze out excess water (avoid twisting the gloves).

- Place in a towel and press to remove additional moisture.

Lay flat to air dry at room temperature, avoiding heat sources. While drying, periodically put them on to help maintain their shape and fit.

Pro Tip: Ensure the gloves are fully dry, then apply a leather conditioner to keep them soft and prevent cracking.

Avoid machine washing or drying leather gloves—it can damage the texture and fit.

Step 3: How to store Winter gloves in Summer

Once your gloves are clean and dry, store them properly to prevent damage during the warmer months.

DO:

- Store in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase.

- Choose a cool, dry location away from sunlight.

- Gently reshape them before storing.

- Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to keep them fresh and ward off pests.

DON’T:

- Store in plastic bags (they can trap moisture).

- Fold or compress them tightly.

- Leave them in a humid or hot environment (such as an attic or basement).

Remember, glove care = glove longevity.

A little summer glove maintenance goes a long way. Whether you're sporting rugged leather gloves or high-performance synthetic mitts, these care tips will help keep them in top shape and winter ready for the season to come.