Essential Hygiene Hacks for Young Athletes: Gumshield Hygiene for Schools and Clubs

Maintaining good gumshield hygiene is essential for schools and clubs responsible for young athletes. From preventing bacteria build-up to avoiding accidental sharing, proper mouthguard care helps protect players’ health on and off the field. This guide shares simple, practical hygiene tips to help schools, PE teachers, and coaches keep gumshields clean, safe, and ready for use.

Why Gumshield Hygiene for Schools and Clubs Matters in Sport

Gum shields are vital for protecting young athletes’ teeth and jaws during sports activities. They can prevent serious injuries and help maintain the athletes' confidence and performance. However, keeping these essential protective items hygienic is equally important to ensure the health of every player.

Individually Packaged Gumshields for Maximum Hygiene

Providing each player with a hygienic case, including Game Guard gum shields, promotes good storage habits and works best when combined with properly fitted gumshields, helping prevent damage, contamination, and poor hygiene.

Contact-Free Gumshield Distribution in Schools and Clubs

Whenever possible, implement a contact-free approach. Have players collect their gum shields directly from a designated distribution point. This method minimises unnecessary contact and ensures a safe experience. A simple self-service system, like placing the gum shields on a table for players to pick up, can help create a more efficient process.

Labelled Gumshields to Prevent Sharing and Mix-Ups

A common issue in schools and clubs is gum shields getting swapped or misplaced. Encourage players to inscribe their names on the gum shield case or use a sticker label. This simple act helps each player keep their gum shield, significantly reducing the risk of accidental sharing.

Safe Gumshield Storage After Training and Matches

After each session, players should store their gum shield in a vented case instead of leaving it loose in their bags or pockets. Providing each player with a hygienic case, included with Game Guard gum shields, promotes good storage habits while preventing contamination. This is particularly essential for young users, as kids may not pay close attention to hygiene.

Cleaning Gumshields: Simple Rules for Players and Parents

Maintaining gumshield hygiene for schools and clubs requires consistent cleaning routines and clear guidance for players and parents.

Schools and clubs can send regular reminders to parents and players about the importance of cleaning their mouthguards after every use, reinforcing the role hygiene plays in keeping young athletes safe during contact sports.

Here are key cleaning tips:

• Always clean the mouthguard with cold water following use. Avoid mouthwash, toothpaste, or other detergents.

• Clean the mouthguard case with warm water. Ensure the mouthguard is dry before storing it in the case.

  
  

These guidelines apply to all types of mouthguards, including options designed for kids and rugby players, who often use them intensively.

Bulk Ordering Gumshields for Schools and Clubs

Ordering gum shields in bulk means you’re always prepared with a clean, hygienic supply. Game Guard offers packs of ten specifically for schools and clubs. This convenience makes it easy to distribute fresh gum shields when needed without scrambling at the last minute.

Keeping Spare Gumshields for Emergencies

There’s always a player who forgets their gum shield! Keeping a few spares, still sealed in hygienic packaging, ensures that no one has to sit out due to forgetfulness. Having an emergency stash of junior gum shields or kids' mouthguards means less disruption to training and matches.

Making Hygiene a Priority, Effortlessly

With these hygiene hacks, schools and clubs can streamline gum shield distribution while maintaining the highest cleanliness standards by choosing UKCA- and CE-approved gumshields designed for safe, hygienic use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should gumshields be cleaned?

Gumshields should be rinsed after every use and cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria build-up.

Can gumshields be cleaned with toothpaste or mouthwash?

No. Toothpaste and mouthwash can damage the material and create scratches where bacteria can grow.

Why should gumshields be stored in a vented case?

A vented case allows airflow, helping the gumshield dry properly and reducing bacterial growth.

Is sharing gumshields ever safe?

No. Gumshields should never be shared due to hygiene and infection risks.

Make gumshield hygiene simple and stress-free. Stock up on Game Guard’s UKCA & CE-approved gumshields and keep schools and clubs prepared all season long.