How to Break in a First Baseman's Mitt

The leather on a new first baseman’s baseball mitts is usually stiff and tough to bend. Breaking in a new mitt also requires that you form a pocket in the glove to more easily catch the ball when playing first base. Though there are different techniques for breaking in first baseman’s mitt, the basics are that you need oil and some form of string.

Things You'll Need

  • Oil or lotion
  • Towel
  • Baseball
  • String
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a small amount of oil or lotion, such as saddle soap, petroleum jelly or mink oil on a small clean towel.

    • 2

      Work the oil or lotion into the leather, rubbing in circular motions. Continue until the entire glove is covered. Use the oil or lotion sparingly; more is not better and may actually cause the mitt to deteriorate faster.

    • 3

      Place a baseball into the pocket of the glove and use string or shoelaces to tie the glove shut when you are not using it. This helps to form and deepen the pocket in the glove. Wrap the string around the outside of the glove so that it closes around the ball, and secure the ends with a knot or bow.

    • 4

      Play catch with your new first baseman’s mitt in order to break it in. Playing with the glove is necessary to help soften the leather and form the pocket. Engage in a round of catch with a friend or family member, toss the ball up in the air and catch it yourself or visit your local batting cages.