Your grappling gear is more than just equipment—it’s an essential part of your training. Whether it’s your gi, rash guard, spats, or no-gi shorts, keeping your gear clean and well-maintained is crucial for performance, hygiene, and longevity. In this Gear Care Guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for cleaning, drying, and storing your gear to ensure it stays fresh, functional, and free from harmful bacteria.
Why Gear Care Matters
Grappling gear is exposed to sweat, bacteria, and friction every time you train. Without proper care, it can develop odors, wear out quickly, and even become a breeding ground for harmful pathogens like staph and ringworm. By taking the time to care for your gear, you not only extend its lifespan but also protect yourself and your training partners from infections.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Gear
1. Wash Immediately After Training
Don’t let your sweaty gear sit in your gym bag for hours. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, so the sooner you wash your gear, the better.
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Machine Wash: Use cold or warm water (check the care label) and a mild, antibacterial detergent. Avoid bleach, as it can weaken the fabric and cause discoloration.
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Hand Wash: If you prefer hand washing, use a sink or tub with antibacterial soap. Scrub gently to remove sweat and dirt.
2. Use Antibacterial Additives
To ensure your gear is thoroughly disinfected, consider adding:
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Gear Guard: 1 cap per wash is enough for this enzyme powered additive to kill bacteria and breakdown the residue that causes odours, available HERE
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White Vinegar: Add half a cup to the rinse cycle to kill bacteria and neutralize odors.
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Tea Tree Oil: A few drops in the wash can provide natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
3. Dry Thoroughly
Proper drying is just as important as washing. Damp gear can develop mould and mildew, which are harmful to your health and can ruin your equipment.
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Air Dry: Hang your gear in a well-ventilated area, preferably in direct sunlight. UV rays have natural disinfecting properties.
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Machine Dry: If you’re in a hurry, use a low-heat setting. High heat can shrink or damage your gear.
Tips for Specific Gear
Gis
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Turn Inside Out: This helps protect the fabric and ensures the inner lining gets cleaned thoroughly.
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Avoid Fabric Softeners: They can break down the fibers and reduce the durability of your gi.
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Iron if Necessary: If your gi wrinkles easily, use a low-heat iron to keep it looking crisp.
Rash Guards Spats and No-Gi Shorts
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Wash Separately: These items are often made of synthetic materials that can retain odors if washed with heavy fabrics like gis.
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Avoid Harsh Detergents: Use a gentle detergent to preserve the elasticity and color of your rash guards.
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Velcro: If you wear items with Velcro fasteners make sure to close it and preferably wash them in a delicates bag or pillow case to avoid the velcros tearing the lycra on other items in the wash.
Belts - Don't Believe the Hype
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Wash Regularly: Your belt absorbs just as much sweat as your gi, so don’t neglect it, it will not negatively impact your BJJ, we promise :)
Storing Your Gear
Proper storage is key to keeping your gear in top condition:
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Use a Ventilated Bag: A mesh gym bag allows airflow, reducing the risk of odours and bacteria buildup.
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Keep It Dry: Make sure your gear is completely dry before storing it.
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Avoid Direct Sunlight for Long-Term Storage: While sunlight is great for drying, prolonged exposure can fade colors and weaken fabrics.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Gear
Even with the best care, grappling gear doesn’t last forever. Here are some signs it’s time for an upgrade:
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Fading or Discoloration: This can make your gear look unprofessional.
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Rips or Tears: Compromised fabric can be unsafe and uncomfortable.
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Persistent Odors: If your gear still smells after washing, it may be time to replace it.
For high-quality, durable gear that’s built to last, check out our Shop.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your grappling gear is an investment in your health, performance, and the longevity of your equipment. By following this Gear Care Guide, you’ll ensure your gear stays clean, fresh, and ready for every training session.
At Continuous Flow BJJ, we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of your training. For more tips on gear, techniques, and the BJJ lifestyle, explore our Blog or join our community today.
Remember, clean gear is happy gear—and a happy grappler!