When it is time to hang your golf clubs up for the winter, do not make the mistake of settling for a musty cellar corner. Take proper steps to winterproof your golf clubs and shoes. Doing so will help them to last longer.
Clean Golf Clubs
Use a sturdy (not soft-bristled) old toothbrush and warm soapy water to thoroughly clean club heads, making sure to reach into hard to reach areas such as grooves and crevices. When you have cleaned off all traces of dirt, carefully towel-dry the club heads. This will help reduce the risk of rust and erosion.
Use the same technique to clean the grips and check the golf bag for any dirt and grass stains. Then clean any visible dirt or grass from the golf bag. Keeping the grips and golf bag clean and free of grass stains will help prevent the buildup of mould, which will ruin golf clubs and grips.
Clean Golf Shoes
Golf shoes need to be kept in tip-top condition if you hope to wear them again next season. Start off by wiping leather shoes with a soft towel and mild warm soapy water. Use a moist towel to gently wipe the mesh tops of the shoes. Use a soapy old toothbrush to clean in between the synthetic outsoles and then towel-dry them. If you have leather outsoles, wipe them with a damp cloth and waterproofing oil for extra protection.
Drying Golf Shoes
Avoid blow-drying golf shoes, as hot air can irreparably damage leather material. Rather, stuff old crumpled up pieces of newspaper inside the shoes overnight to absorb any excess moisture. Remove the newspaper the next day.
Storage
Cover the golf bag and store all the golf equipment in a dry location, preferably at room temperature where it will be protected against damage. If possible, do not store your golf bag and equipment in direct sunlight or in a hot, humid environment.
It takes just a few minutes to waterproof your golf clubs and shoes, but the correct cleaning and storage of your gold clubs and shoes can help prolong the life of your golf equipment by preventing the buildup of rust, erosion, or mould, which will qickly ruin your investment.