Three most important things to do to keep your glove in best condition.

An experienced baseball coach understands that a well-maintained glove will last longer and perform better than a neglected one. Your glove’s performance is key. You don’t want a fielding error to be caused by a poorly maintained glove.

Here are the 3 most important things you should do to keep your glove in the best condition:

1. Clean your glove after each use. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt, grass, and dust. If your glove gets wet, dry it as soon as possible by blotting the glove leather with an absorbent towel. If the glove is soiled you may need a more aggressive cleaning. Be sure to use a cleaner that is designed for leather. Normal household cleaners are too harsh and can damage the leather, shortening it’s useful life. Mitt-Spit Glove Cleaner is an excellent choice as its chemically engineered for baseball glove leather.

2. Condition your glove regularly. Use a leather conditioner intended for baseball gloves to keep the leather soft and supple. This will help prevent the glove from cracking or drying out. There are a lot of glove oil and conditioner products on the market, some of which can truly damage the leather. Do the research. For example animal based oils like neatsfoot oil and mink oil can go rancid. Whereas the synthetic oils in Mitt-Spit Glove Oil has the lowest potential for rancidity.

3. Store your glove properly. Keep your glove in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources. If you have a glove bag, use it.

Here are some additional tips for maintaining your baseball glove:

• Don't over-oil your glove. Too much oil can turn the leather sticky and add weight to the glove making it feel heavy and unwieldy. Your glove is like an extension of your body. Using the glove should be 2nd nature. If its too heavy, clunky it is likely to affect how you play.

• Avoid using harsh chemicals on your glove. These chemicals can damage the leather. For example household cleaners like 409. Mr. Clean, Windex, etc, are too alkaline and will damage the leather fibers.

• If your glove gets wet, don't put it in the dryer, oven or use a hair dryer. The heat can damage the leather. Let it air dry.

• Check the laces on your glove regularly and tighten or replace them as needed. A broken lace it the middle of a game could be a serious problem. Don’t make that mistake. Keep an eye on the laces.

Following these tips will keep your baseball glove in good condition for the entire season and beyond.

Mitt-Spit products cost a bit more but you get so much more.

Your baseball glove is an investment. You spent good money on it, and you want it to last. But with all the different baseball glove care products on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are the best.

That's where Mitt-Spit comes in. We're the only baseball glove care company that uses the highest quality ingredients, formulated by our team of chemical engineers. What makes us really different is our deep knowledge of leather. The Mitt-Spit team are leather experts with decades of experience working with a wide range of leather types.  Furthermore, our products are concentrated, so you use less, and they're pH balanced to protect your glove's leather.

Here's why you should choose Mitt-Spit:

• Our products are made with the best ingredients. We use only the finest leather cleaners and oils, to keep your glove soft, supple, and protected.

• Our products are concentrated. This means you use less, so you save money in the long run.

• Our products are pH balanced. This means they won't damage your glove's leather.

• Our products are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If you're not happy with our products, you can return them for a full refund.

• Our customer support team are leather experts as well and can offer deep insights in the world of glove leather.

• We manufacture our products in the USA from USA sourced raw materials. 

So why wait? Choose Mitt-Spit for the best baseball glove care products on the market.  Why do people who make a living repairing baseball gloves buy Mitt-Spit products?  They know what’s the best for their client’s gloves.

Here are some of the benefits of using Mitt-Spit baseball glove care products:

• Longer glove life. Mitt-Spit products will help to keep your glove soft, supple, and protected, which will extend its life.

• Improved performance. A well-conditioned glove will be more responsive and easier to use, which can help you improve your fielding skills.

• Better grip. Mitt-Spit products can help to improve your glove's grip, which can help you make more plays.

• Fresher smell. Mitt-Spit glove oil won’t turn rancid as so many of our competitor’s products do.  The oils Mitt-Spit manufactures help to keep your glove smelling healthy and fresh.

• Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Viral.  Mitt-Spit glove cleaner incorporates germ resistant chemical technology for your health.

If you're serious about what’s best for your baseball glove, then you need to use Mitt-Spit baseball glove care products. These are just some of the reasons why they are the best on the market.  Yes, they are a little more expensive but worth every penny because Mitt-Spit helps you keep your glove in top condition for years.  You’ll never be sorry when you buy the best.

Order your Mitt-Spit products today!

An interview with a pro shortstop about his glove.

As a professional baseball player playing shortstop, I would take great pride in selecting the perfect baseball glove. The glove is not just a tool; it becomes an extension of my hand and an essential part of my defensive prowess. I would choose a high-quality glove that offers excellent durability, comfort, and performance.

One popular brand I like as they are known for producing top-notch baseball gloves is Rawlings. They offer a wide range of gloves specifically designed for infield positions like shortstop. I would opt for a Rawlings Heart of the Hide model, which is made from premium leather and known for its exceptional craftsmanship.

Caring for my baseball glove would be of utmost importance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here's how I would take care of it:

1. Breaking it in: When I get a new glove, it's important to break it in properly. I would start by warming the glove gently with a hair dryer and apply a small amount of Mitt-Spit Break-in solution to soften the leather. Then, I would repeatedly open and close the glove, flexing it in different directions to loosen up the leather and create a comfortable pocket. It’s like I’m giving the glove a deep body massage.

2. Cleaning: After each game or practice session, I would gently remove any dirt or debris from the glove using a soft cloth or brush. If the glove gets excessively dirty or muddy, I would use Mitt-Spit Glove Cleaner on a damp cloth or sponge to clean it. It's crucial to avoid using harsh chemicals like household cleaners or submerging the glove in water, as this can damage the leather.

3. Drying: If the glove gets wet, I would pat it dry with a towel and then let it air dry naturally. It's essential to avoid using artificial heat sources like hairdryers or placing the glove in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leather to dry out and become brittle.

4. Conditioning: Regularly conditioning the glove with Mitt-Spit Glove Oil. This helps keep the leather soft, supple, and resistant to cracking. I would apply a small amount of glove oil to the glove, focusing on the pocket, fingers, and laces. After applying the conditioner, I would gently rub it in using a soft cloth, ensuring that it's evenly distributed.

5. Storage: When not in use, I would store my glove in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. To maintain its shape, I would use a glove mallet or ball to fill the pocket and keep it open. This prevents the glove from becoming flat or misshapen over time.

By following these care practices, I would ensure that my baseball glove remains in excellent condition, giving me the confidence to perform at my best on the field.

The Legends of the Hot Corner: Unveiling the Best Third Basemen in Baseball History

When it comes to the game of baseball, each position carries its own unique set of skills and demands. Third base, known as the hot corner, requires exceptional reflexes, lightning-fast instincts, and a reliable glove. Throughout the storied history of the game, numerous third basemen have graced the diamond and left an indelible mark on the sport. In this blog post, we celebrate the best third basemen to ever play the game, taking into account both their offensive prowess and the gloves they wielded with precision.

1. Brooks Robinson - Baltimore Orioles (1955-1977): Considered the epitome of defensive excellence, Brooks Robinson was a wizard with the glove. A 16-time Gold Glove winner, Robinson was a master at snatching line drives, making jaw-dropping diving stops, and displaying an arm that could gun down runners with ease. His defensive wizardry earned him the nickname "The Human Vacuum Cleaner." Robinson's skills were instrumental in the Orioles' success, including two World Series championships. His unmatched glove work makes him an undeniable candidate for the best third baseman ever.

2. Mike Schmidt - Philadelphia Phillies (1972-1989): Known for his prodigious power at the plate, Mike Schmidt was equally impressive with his defensive abilities. With ten Gold Gloves to his name, Schmidt combined exceptional range, quick reflexes, and a strong arm to make incredible plays on a routine basis. His fielding prowess was a testament to his athleticism and dedication to perfection. Schmidt's glove, combined with his remarkable offensive numbers, solidifies his status as one of the all-time greats at the hot corner.

3. Adrian Beltre - Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers (1998-2018): Adrian Beltre's career was defined by his infectious passion for the game and his remarkable defensive skills. Renowned for his cat-like reflexes and acrobatic plays, Beltre brought an intensity to third base that few could match. With five Gold Gloves, his quick hands and exceptional footwork allowed him to turn potential hits into outs effortlessly. Beltre's remarkable consistency and his ability to make jaw-dropping plays have earned him a rightful place among the best third basemen ever.

4. George Brett - Kansas City Royals (1973-1993): George Brett, a career-long Royal, was not only an offensive powerhouse but also a defensive stalwart. Known for his textbook fundamentals, Brett's glove work was characterized by impeccable positioning and a strong arm. He won one Gold Glove and consistently showcased his defensive prowess throughout his career. Brett's combination of offensive brilliance and a reliable glove solidify his place as one of the finest third basemen of all time.

5. Eddie Mathews - Boston/Milwaukee Braves, Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers (1952-1968): Eddie Mathews, a true power hitter, was also an exceptional defender at third base. Although he played most of his career before the introduction of the Gold Glove award, Mathews' glove skills were highly regarded. With a strong throwing arm and excellent range, Mathews was a formidable presence at the hot corner. His impact on the game, both offensively and defensively, earned him a well-deserved spot among the best third basemen in history.

As we reflect upon the history of baseball, it becomes evident that the best third basemen were not only formidable offensive threats but also relied on their gloves to leave a lasting legacy. From the spectacular plays of Brooks Robinson and the raw power of Mike Schmidt to the acrobatics of Adrian Beltre and the textbook fundamentals of George Brett and Eddie Mathews, these are the very best.

In all cases they knew how important maintaining the gloves they used to maximize peak performance. This is the magic of Mitt-Spit baseball glove care products.

Mink, Neatsfoot or Olive Oil on Baseball Gloves --- Here's Why Not.

Mink oil comes from the skin of a mink.   Neatsfoot come from the hoof of a cow and other animals. Olive oil from, well olives. Animal or vegetable oils are never good for leather because of the potential of rancidity.  The oil can turn rancid.

To understand why, here's a short chemistry lesson.   There are two ends of the animal or vegetable oil spectrum: There is Saturated oils on one end and Unsaturated oils on the other.   Saturated oils are really stable, whereas unsaturated oils can be unstable.

There is a scientific method for testing this.  It’s called the Iodine Value (sometimes referred to as Iodine Index).  The higher the iodine value of an oil, the less stable it is, which means more sensitive to oxidation.   Simply put, the more likely to go rancid.  

The Iodine Value of mink oil is between 80 and 95.  Neatsfoot oil runs between 69 - 75. Olive oil is way up there as well at around 85. These are pretty far up that scale. Mitt-Spit glove oil is about 1. The same low rancidity potential exists for Mitt-Spit Break-in. That means virtually no chance of rancidity with Mitt-Spit products.

Mink, olive and neatsfoot oils all have fairly high Iodine Values.  There are 3 other factors necessary.  Exposure to air (oxygen), heat and light. This is why olive oil bottles are generally green (not clear glass), are stored with the cap on tight and supposed to be stored in a dark cool place.

Your baseball glove however is outside in the sun, exposed to air and gets plenty warm.  So your mitt is exposed to all three factors: Air, Heat and Light.  If it's loaded with olive, mink or neatsfoot oil, It doesn't take long for the oil in the glove to go rancid. What does this mean to you?  Anything going rancid in the leather will help deteriorate that leather.  It will make your glove smell and is generally unhealthy. Yuk!

Mitt-Spit products on the other hand is made from an oil that is often found in cosmetics, or even as a food additive.  It's very safe for your mitt too.  As mentioned, Mitt-Spit glove oil and Mitt-Spit Break-in have an iodine value of about 1.  For the sake of your glove,use Mitt-Spit products. If you invest in the correct care products, you’ll never be sorry. Go here to buy Mitt-Spit Products.

Crazy Stuff for Baseball Glove Care

So here's the latest nutty newsflash for baseball glove care...  Old motor oil.  Yup... Some guy swears by it. Hey, I guess it's OK because it's better than putting used motor oil in a land fill and polluting the water.

Come on now.  Where does this stuff come from anyway?  What a bunch of nonsense!

Look, if you want to ruin your glove try some of these hocus-pocus things.  Otherwise, let the guys who know leather provide the right products.  That's what the Mitt-Spit team is all about.

If you have questions about leather care, send us an email or give us a call. We have a deep understanding of leather. You’ll get honest, straight answers to your questions. Try us out. You can contact me directly— Kevin@AdvLeather.com or call us 800-541-5982. Or, go directly to the Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove. You’ll see the difference quality makes.

A creative use of Mitt-Spit Break-in - put it on new laces before you lace up a glove.

Nate Petty of Magnolia, TX came up with a brilliant idea for using the Mitt-Spit Break-in product when re-lacing. Often the new laces are stiff, sometimes stiffer than the glove leather itself. What Nate discovered is if you apply the Mitt-Spit Break-in product to the laces before you start the lacing project, it makes a lacing job a lot easier. Try it. See if it works for you too. Thanks for the tip Nate. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Does glove oil plug up the pores of baseball glove leather?

There is a lot written on the internet about baseball glove care.  Much of it is wrong, for example, the clogging of leather pores with conditioning agents.  The general theme is that the "conditioner" blocks the ability of the leather to breath.  So let's take a look at the science of it.  

To answer the question directly --- the right glove oil chemistry does not clog leather pores.  However, a heavy, viscous chemistry can.  For example, Vaseline slathered across a piece of leather will NOT soak in, but just sit on the surface.  All it does is add weight to the glove and block the leather (skin) from breathing.  So,  you end up with a greasy, gloppy mess that does in fact block pores.

A good starting point is to ask: Why does leather need regular glove oil anyway?

Here's some background:  Leather has natural moisturizing agents that have been infused into the leather at the tannery.  This is what makes the leather pliable, not stiff as wood.  A average of 25% of the leather's mass is moisture.  Because leather is porous, it breathes.  So, it loses moisture through evaporation.  As leather loses moisture, it stiffens and actually can shrink (loses mass).  Therefore, it's important for the long term life of glove leather, to keep the leather moisture content at the proper level.  This is accomplished by using a properly chemically engineered glove oil.

What then is the right chemistry for a leather glove?  

A baseball glove oil should have the following attributes:

1.  A softening agent that the leather will absorb is essential.  If it doesn't soak in then it's useless. The glove oil should be absorbed deeply, migrate into the internal leather fibers, not just the surface.

2. Baseball glove oil should be engineered specifically for baseball glove leather, not cross marketed from other intended uses.  There are many different types of leather.  How the leather is tanned (processed) at a tannery determines its characteristics.  The products developed for treating that leather, once in the hands of a consumer, should take that into consideration.

3. It should be made with quality ingredients that will have long lasting, positive effects on leather.

4. Glove oil should be pH balanced to the leather.  If it isn't, then it can actually be harmful, (i.e. saddle soap) break down the leather, shortening the life of the leather.  More on this point in another post.

5. It should be easy to apply and creamy in texture so you can see it as you apply it.  

6. It should NOT leave a sticky or oily residue on the leather.

7. A thin coating of glove oil should dissipate into the leather rapidly.

8. It should leave a smooth, leather-like feel to the glove after it has been applied.

9. It should have a pleasant, new leather aroma. 

These are the attributes Advanced Leather Solutions engineered into Mitt-Spit Glove oil.  With 35 years experience working with leather as a leather restoration company, Advanced Leather Solutions know what's good for leather and what can be harmful.  We understand the chemical engineering behind quality leather care products and have applied this knowledge to Mitt-Spit Solutions, a whole class of products that you can count on for the long term vitality of your baseball glove. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Prepare Your Glove for the Off-Season

Fall is here in the United States.  It’s time to think about doing what’s best to prepare your glove for its winter “hibernation.”  Here are some tips.

1      After a season’s use, it’s a good idea to give your glove a thorough cleaning.  With the Mitt-Spit glove cleaner, generously apply to all surfaces.  If you have the Mitt-Spit cleaning glove, use it.  It’s an excellent way to apply the cleaner as it gives you good finger dexterity to get into all the nook and crannies.  Let the cleaner sit on the glove for a minute or two.  Then, use a soft dry cloth to wipe away to soapy residue.  This will remove the potential for mold or mildew developing.  The Mitt-Split cleaning glove can be reused many times over.  Simply throw it into the washing machine and it will be ready for next season.

2      Apply Mitt-Spit Glove Oil to the glove using a soft cloth, like a micro-fiber towel.  A light coating is all that is necessary.  Be sure to use the right oil.  Products like mink oil or coconut oil have a potential for turning rancid --- Yuck!  Mitt-Spit glove oil will not turn rancid.

3      Put a baseball into the glove pocket and wrap the glove in a soft cloth, or cloth bag. Lightly secure with a rubber-band or the like.

4      Store the glove in a location which is protected from freezing.  So that means, keep the glove indoors for the winter in the northern states.  An inside closet works great.

Do this and your glove with sleep well all winter long and when spring season comes along, you’ll be ready to play ball with a glove the looks and feel fresh and supple. Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy the correct products for your glove.

Baseball Glove Gurus Love Mitt-Spit

Had a nice conversation with Walt H. of Mobile, AL.  He is semi-retired, spending his time now repairing and restoring baseball gloves.  Walt lives in the sports crazed capital of America, Mobile, AL area where more professional baseball and football players come from per capita than any other place in the country.  People from the Mobile area are serious about baseball.

In one specific instance, Walt has a decades old glove that was heavily soiled and hadn't been conditioned in about forever.  He used the Mitt-Spit system of cleaning and conditioning and reported back that it worked wonders.  He said it was just like what we show in our video demonstration.  Walt is a repeat customer who ordered another full bundle of the Mitt-Spit Cleaner, Conditioner (glove oil) and Break-in products.  It's nice to hear from people who have a passion for what they do and want to use the best baseball glove care system for their work.  Thanks Walt for being a great customer.

If you've used Mitt-Spit products on your glove, we'd love the hear from you.   If you haven't tried Mitt-Spit yet, do your glove a favor.  Join the ranks of satisfied customers.  It's easy.  Place your order today! Go to Mitt-Spit Products to buy.