If you’ve ever owned a good pair of heated gloves, you already know they’re not the kind of thing you want to mistreat. These aren’t cheap winter gloves you toss into the washing machine and hope for the best. They have wires, sensors, batteries, and layers that all work together to keep your hands warm when the weather turns ugly.

And trust me — most people only realize how important proper care is after they accidentally shrink the outer shell, damage the heating element, or get moisture inside the battery port. I’ve been there once, and it taught me quickly that taking care of heated gloves is surprisingly simple… as long as you know what not to do.

So here’s a real-world, no-nonsense guide to safely cleaning and maintaining heated gloves, written the way I wish someone had explained it to me from the beginning.

Why Cleaning Heated Gloves the Right Way Matters

Heated gloves aren’t fragile, but they’re also not invincible.
Inside each glove is a complete heating system — tiny wires or carbon fiber elements, insulation layers, waterproof membranes, and connectors. When they’re clean and dry, everything works beautifully.

But if you:

• Soak them in water

• Twist or wring them

• Leave moisture near the battery port

• Use harsh detergent

• Throw them in a washing machine

…the lifespan drops fast, and the heating can get patchy or stop working altogether.

Proper care keeps them warm longer, safer to use, and more comfortable.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Heated Gloves Safely

Let’s keep this straightforward and beginner-friendly.

1. Remove the Batteries First

Before you do anything — literally anything — pull out the batteries.

This prevents:

• Water getting into the connection point

• Corrosion

• Short circuits

• Long-term damage to wiring

If the gloves have a waterproof cap over the battery port, make sure it’s sealed.

2. Avoid the Washing Machine — Always

Heated gloves should never go into a washing machine.

Not even on gentle mode.
Not even in a laundry bag.

The spinning, squeezing, and water pressure can break the heating elements or damage the membrane inside.

3. Use a Damp Cloth for Day-to-Day Cleaning

For light dirt, sweat, or dust:

• Use a damp cloth

• Wipe the surface gently

• Clean the fingertips and palm area

• Use mild soap only if needed

Do not soak the gloves — moisture should never reach the inner layers.

4. For Deeper Cleaning, Spot Clean Only

If the gloves are visibly dirty (mud, salt, sweat buildup):

• Mix warm water with a drop of mild soap

• Dip a soft cloth into the mixture

• Gently scrub the dirty areas

• Wipe with a clean damp cloth afterward

Avoid:

• Hot water

• Bleach

• Strong detergent

• Fabric softener

Strong chemicals can weaken insulation and ruin the waterproof barrier.

5. Never Twist or Wring the Gloves

This is one of the biggest mistakes people make.

Heating wires can bend — but they shouldn’t be twisted or squeezed.
Wringing the gloves can break the wires or shift the heating panels.

Just squeeze gently with a towel to remove surface moisture.

How to Dry Heated Gloves Without Damaging Them

Drying is even more important than cleaning.

1. Air Dry Only

No dryer.
No heater vent.
No direct sunlight.

High heat can deform the materials or weaken the heating system.

Instead:

• Lay the gloves flat on a towel

• Let them dry naturally

• Keep them in a warm, ventilated room

Let them dry fully before storing.

2. Keep Heat Away From the Battery Port

If water gets near the port, let it air dry completely before reconnecting the battery.

A cotton swab can help remove moisture gently.

How to Maintain Heated Gloves So They Last Longer

Cleaning is just one part.
Good habits help your gloves last years instead of one season.

1. Charge the Batteries Regularly

Even if you're not using the gloves every week:

• Charge the batteries every 4–6 weeks

• Avoid storing them completely drained

• Keep them away from extreme heat or cold

This keeps the cells healthy and ensures steady heat output.

2. Store Them in a Cool, Dry Place

Avoid:

• Damp basements

• Sunlit window shelves

• Sealed humid bags

Use:

• A breathable bag

• A clean drawer

• Any place with stable temperature

3. Don’t Fold the Gloves Too Tightly

Heating wires can handle normal bending, but sharp folds over long periods aren’t ideal.

Store the gloves naturally, the way they sit on your hands.

4. Let Them Dry After Every Use

If you've been in snow, rain, or sweat:

• Open the cuffs

• Loosen the wrist straps

• Let air flow inside

This prevents odor, bacteria, and damage to inner insulation.

How You Know It’s Time to Clean or Maintain Them

Most people wait too long.
Your gloves probably need care if:

• Heat feels weaker

• One finger warms slower than others

• The inside smells damp

• The surface feels stiff

• Dirt is visible around the palm or wrist

A little cleaning goes a long way.

Why Taking Care of Heated Gloves Is Worth It

A good pair of heated gloves isn’t just “winter gear.”
It’s something that keeps you safe, comfortable, and able to use your hands when the weather gets tough.

Taking proper care means:

• Stronger heating

• Longer battery life

• Better comfort

• Fewer issues

• More winters with the same pair

And honestly — once you know how simple the process is, you’ll never go back to guessing or taking risks.

📎  Shop Heated Gloves