The Hygiene Checklist: What Schools and Clubs Need to Know About Gumshields
- alisonpitt
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
When it comes to protecting young players in contact sports, gumshields are non-negotiable. However, while many schools and clubs focus on ensuring every player has a gum shield or mouthguard, hygiene is just as critical as protection. A dirty or poorly maintained gumshield can harbour bacteria, affect performance, and even shorten its lifespan.
Here’s our essential hygiene checklist for schools and clubs to share with students, parents, and coaches.
1. Clean After Every Use
Whether it’s a gum shield rugby players wear in training or a mouth guard kids use for PE lessons, cleaning is vital. After each use, rinse the mouthguard in cold water and gently brush it with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the fit to warp.
2. Use a Case
Every kids gum shield or gum shield should be stored in a protective case to keep it safe from damage and bacteria. Coaches and teachers can encourage players to label their cases to avoid mix-ups, especially important when multiple students have identical mouthguards.

3. Avoid Sharing at All Costs
It may seem obvious, but gum shields should never be shared. A mouthguard rugby players pass around is not just unhygienic—it’s unsafe. Schools and clubs should remind children that their gum guard is theirs alone.
4. Regular Deep Cleans
In addition to daily rinsing, an occasional deep clean helps maintain freshness. Soak the gumshield kids use in specialised cleaning tablets designed for mouth guards. This prevents the build-up of bacteria and odour.
5. Inspect for Damage
A cracked or worn gum shield won’t provide proper protection. Encourage children to show their coach or parent if their mouth guard feels uncomfortable, looks damaged, or doesn’t fit securely. Replacing it quickly ensures continued safety.
6. Replace Regularly
Growing children need their gum shield sized appropriately as their mouths develop. For juniors, this may mean replacing their junior gum shield every season. Clubs can support parents by reminding them when it’s time for a replacement.
7. Promote Education
Hygiene isn’t just down to parents, it’s a shared responsibility. Schools and clubs can build good habits by reminding players to wash their gumshield after every game, bring their storage case, and never leave their mouth guard stuffed in a kit bag.
Final Thoughts...
A clean gumshield is a safe gumshield.
By following this checklist, schools and clubs can help players not only stay protected with a properly fitted mouthguard but also maintain good hygiene.
At Game Guard, we supply high-quality, affordable gum shields designed for comfort and durability, because player safety shouldn’t come at a premium.
Ready to make gumshield hygiene part of your club or school’s routine?
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