How to Oil Baseball Mitts

While baseball gloves are somewhat softer and more pliable than they were 20 years ago or more, they still might need adjustments when you buy them off the shelves. Oiling your baseball glove is a way to soften the leather and make it more workable before using it in a game or organized practice session. It takes a little bit of work but you will be rewarded with a reliable defensive tool that should last several seasons.

Step 1

Rub glove oil in the pocket and finger areas of your glove. Rub the oil liberally and massage it in until the oil is absorbed by the leather in your glove.

Step 2

Place two baseballs in the pocket area of your glove and then fold the fingers of the glove over the balls. Push the thumb of the glove over the fingers. Secure the glove by tying twine or cloth around it. Keep the glove in this position for about 24 hours.

Step 3

Untie the glove and play 10 to 15 minutes of catch with it. Ideally, you will throw the ball with a teammate or friend who is a relatively hard thrower. After playing catch, oil the glove again, secure it with two baseballs and tie it up. Keep the glove tied up for about 12 more hours.

Step 4

Untie the glove. It should be fully prepared, and you can take it and use in a practice or a game.

Tips and Warnings

Apply oil to the glove before the start of a new season. If you are playing in a hot, dry climate, re-oil the glove if you notice the leather is getting hard and dry.