How to Clean a Gumshield: Keep Your Mouthguard Clean, Safe & Match Ready
- alisonpitt
- Jun 17
- 4 min read
Whether you're playing rugby, hockey, boxing, martial arts or any other contact sport, your gumshield works hard to protect your teeth every time you step onto the pitch, mat or court.
But while players are often diligent about cleaning boots, washing kits, and maintaining equipment, gumshield hygiene is frequently overlooked.
A dirty or damaged gumshield can become uncomfortable to wear, develop unpleasant odours and potentially harbour bacteria. Fortunately, keeping your gumshield clean, safe and match-ready only takes a few minutes.
Why Gumshield Hygiene Matters
Every time you wear your gumshield, it is exposed to saliva, bacteria, dirt and debris. If it is simply thrown into a sports bag after use, bacteria can multiply quickly in warm, damp conditions.
Regular cleaning helps:
Reduce bacteria build-up
Prevent unpleasant smells and tastes
Extend the life of your gumshield
Maintain a comfortable fit
Ensure your mouthguard remains safe and effective
A clean gumshield is not just more pleasant to wear; it's an important part of good sports hygiene.
Schools and clubs should have a clear process for inspecting and cleaning mouthguards. Our gumshield hygiene checklist provides a simple framework for coaches and teachers.
How to Clean Your Gumshield Properly
Cleaning your gumshield after every use is quick and easy.
Step 1: Rinse Immediately
As soon as possible after training or a match, rinse your gumshield thoroughly under cold or lukewarm water.
Avoid hot water, as excessive heat can distort the shape and affect the fit.
Step 2: Use Mild Soap
Gently clean the surface using a soft toothbrush and a small amount of mild soap.
Pay particular attention to grooves and indentations where bacteria can accumulate.
Step 3: Rinse Again
Remove all soap residue by rinsing thoroughly with clean water.
Step 4: Allow to Dry
Let your gumshield air dry completely before storing it.
Storing a damp mouthguard encourages bacterial growth and can lead to unpleasant odours.
How to Store Your Gumshield Safely
How you store your gumshield is just as important as how you clean it.
Always:
Keep it in a ventilated protective case
Store it away from direct sunlight
Keep it out of hot cars or near radiators
Ensure it is completely dry before putting it away
Never:
Leave it loose in your sports bag
Wrap it in tissue or clothing
Store it while wet
Leave it exposed to excessive heat
When to Replace Your Gumshield
A gumshield won't last forever.
Inspect it regularly and look for:
Cracks or splits
Tears around the edges
Excessive wear marks
Changes in shape
Areas that no longer fit snugly
If your gumshield becomes damaged or no longer fits properly, it may not provide the protection you need.
Why Young Players Need Regular Fit Checks
For children and teenagers, mouth shape and tooth position can change surprisingly quickly.
A gumshield that fitted perfectly six months ago may now feel loose or uncomfortable.
Parents, coaches and PE teachers should encourage young players to check:
The gumshield stays securely in place
It remains comfortable to wear
It still covers the teeth correctly
There are no signs of damage
A gumshield that no longer fits properly may not provide the protection players need. If you're unsure whether a gumshield still fits correctly, read our guide on how to fit a gumshield correctly.
A well-fitting gumshield provides better protection and is more likely to be worn consistently.
A Simple Pre-Match Gumshield Checklist
Before every game or training session:
✓ Check for damage
✓ Ensure the gumshield is clean
✓ Confirm it still fits comfortably
✓ Make sure it is packed in its protective case
This quick routine takes less than a minute but helps ensure players remain protected throughout the season.
Protect Your Smile with Game Guard Gumshields
At Game Guard Gumshields, we've been helping schools, clubs, parents and players protect their teeth for over 25 years.
Our UK-manufactured boil-and-bite gumshields are designed to provide a comfortable fit, reliable protection and excellent value for money.
Combined with good cleaning and maintenance habits, a quality gumshield can help keep players safe, confident and focused on enjoying their sport.
Remember: Inspect. Clean. Check Fit.
A few minutes of care can help keep your gumshield fresh for every match and ready to protect when it matters most.
Alongside good hygiene habits, schools and clubs should also consider their wider gumshield compliance procedures to help keep players protected.
Ready to Protect Your Players?
A clean, well-fitting gumshield is one of the simplest ways to help prevent avoidable dental injuries in sport.
Whether you're a parent, coach, PE teacher or club volunteer, now is the perfect time to check your players' gumshields, replace any that are worn or damaged, and ensure everyone is ready for the season ahead.
Game Guard Gumshields are UK-made, CE & UKCA-approved, comfortable to wear, and affordable for schools, clubs, and families.
Schools & Clubs..... Need to restock or try Game Guard for the first time?
Join the Game Guard Club for 15% off your first order and ongoing exclusive discounts.
Protect every smile. Protect every player. Choose Game Guard Gumshields.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a gumshield?
Rinse your gumshield with cold water after use, clean it with mild soap and a soft toothbrush, then allow it to dry completely before storing it in a ventilated case.
How often should I clean my gumshield?
You should clean your gumshield after every training session and match to prevent bacteria build-up and unpleasant odours.
When should I replace my gumshield?
Replace your gumshield if it becomes damaged, develops cracks, loses its shape, or no longer fits comfortably and securely.
Can a dirty gumshield make you ill?
A poorly maintained gumshield can harbour bacteria and germs, making regular cleaning an important part of good sports hygiene.
How should I store my gumshield?
Store your gumshield in a ventilated protective case, away from direct sunlight and heat, and ensure it is completely dry before storage.
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