How to Deep Clean Hockey Gear at Home vs. Professional Cleaning

Keeping your hockey gear clean is more than just about smelling fresh—it’s about protecting your health, prolonging the life of your equipment, and ensuring peak performance on the ice. But when it comes to cleaning your gear, there’s a big difference between DIY methods and professional cleaning.

Bathtub soaking (“bathtub soup”)

The Challenges of Cleaning Hockey Gear at Home

Many players and parents try to tackle hockey gear cleaning themselves. Common home methods include:

• Soaking gear in the bathtub with detergents or bleach

• Using household disinfectant sprays

• Running gear through a washing machine

• Sprinkling baking soda or vinegar for odor

While these methods may temporarily mask odors, they rarely reach deep into pads, liners, and foams where bacteria, mold, and sweat accumulate. Home cleaning can also damage gear, shrink fabrics, or break down padding, reducing its effectiveness and lifespan. Improper drying can leave moisture trapped inside, allowing bacteria to grow back, meaning odors return quickly.

Why Professional Cleaning is a Game-Changer

Professional cleaning goes beyond surface-level freshness. At Cloak & Shield, we use the Esporta IS4000 wash system, a state-of-the-art solution trusted by Hockey Canada, Walter Gretzky, Joe Thornton, and equipment managers across Alberta.

How the Esporta System Works:

• Four-stage wet clean: Gear is washed in separate compartments to ensure no twisting or damage.

• Hydraulic action cleaning: Water and specially formulated detergents are pushed deep into foam, pads, and fabrics, eliminating bacteria, mold, and odors at the source.

• 99.9% bacteria eradication: Scientifically tested detergents and disinfectants flush out harmful pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus.

• Safe and eco-friendly: Detergents are biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and phosphate-free, keeping both your gear and the environment safe.

This method doesn’t just clean your gear—it sanitizes it, making it safe for your skin and reducing the risk of infections, rashes, or illnesses. Plus, it prolongs the life of your equipment, protecting your investment in high-performance gear.

The Bottom Line

While home cleaning can be convenient, it’s no match for professional deep cleaning with the Esporta IS4000 system. DIY methods often leave bacteria, odors, and mold behind, while professional cleaning ensures:

• Safe and thorough sanitization

• Odor elimination at the source

• Protection for delicate fabrics, plastics, and padding

• Longer-lasting gear

Don’t risk your health or damage your equipment—trust the experts.

Ready to Experience the Esporta Difference?

Keep your hockey gear fresh, safe, and game-ready. Book your professional cleaning with Cloak & Shield today!