Baseball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any player, but they can be delicate and require proper care. Unfortunately, many players make common mistakes that can damage their gloves and shorten their lifespan.

Here are the 4 most common mistakes players make in caring for their baseball gloves:

1. Not breaking in the glove properly. A new baseball glove can be stiff and uncomfortable to wear, but it's important to break it in properly to make it more pliable and easier to use. Players often make the mistake of trying to break in their glove inappropriately. For example, putting it in the microwave oven or getting it wet and beating it with a baseball bat. These and other such techniques can actually damage the leather. The best way to break in a baseball glove is to first apply a deep penetrating break-in oil, massage it into the leather (best of the leather is slightly warm) and play catch with it as often as possible.

2. Not using the right type of oil. There are many different types of oils available for conditioning baseball gloves, but not all of them are created equal. Some oils can actually damage the leather. For example oil with a high iodine index can induce rancidity. So it's important to use a high-quality oil with a low iodine index that is specifically designed for baseball gloves. A good option is Mitt-Spit Break-in, which is a specially formulated oil that helps to soften and lubricate the leather fibers.

3. Over-oiling the glove. It's important to oil your baseball glove, but it's also important not to overdo it. Over-oiling the glove can make it too soft and floppy or mushy. It can also weaken the internal fiber structure make it more likely to tear. Additionally, over oiling adds weight to the glove making it harder to catch a ball. A good rule of thumb is to lightly oil your glove Monthly in season and as you are storing the glove during the off-season.

4. Not storing the glove properly. When you're not using your baseball glove, it's important to store it properly to prevent it from drying out and cracking. Never store your glove in a sealed plastic bag. The leather has to breath else the oils in the leather may be corrupted turning tacky, gummy or sticky. The best way to store a baseball glove is in a cool, dry place with a ball in its pocket. It is also recommended to store the glove in a cloth glove bag or something like a pillowcase to help protect it from dust and dirt.

How to Correct These Mistakes

If you've made any of the mistakes listed above, there are a few things you can do to correct them.

• If you haven't broken in your glove properly, you can start by using a quality break-in oil and playing catch with it as often as possible. It’s never too late to begin the proper break-in process.

• If you've used the wrong type of oil, you can clean your glove with a leather cleaner designed for baseball glove leather and then apply a small amount of the correct type of oil.

• If you've over-oiled your glove, you can wipe away the excess oil with a clean cloth. Leave the glove in a warm dry place which will allow the excess oils to evaporate away.

• If you haven't been storing your glove properly, start storing it in a cool, dry place and put it in a cloth bag like a pillowcase.

  By following these tips, you can help to extend the lifespan of your baseball glove and keep it in good condition for years to come.