Maintaining your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi is an essential aspect of both personal hygiene and gear longevity. A well-kept gi not only lasts longer but also promotes a more pleasant and respectful training environment. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to care for your gi effectively.
1. Avoid Folding or Storing a Sweaty Gi
After training, it is critical not to fold or pack your gi while it is still damp with sweat. Doing so traps moisture and creates an environment where bacteria and mildew can thrive, leading to persistent odors and potential fabric damage.
Recommendation:
Unfold and hang your gi immediately after class to allow it to air out, even if you do not plan to wash it right away. This simple step significantly reduces odor buildup.
2. Air Dry Immediately After Use
Do not place your gi in a laundry basket or leave it in the washing machine if you are not washing it immediately. Delayed care can result in unpleasant smells and compromise fabric integrity.
Best Practice:
As soon as possible after training, hang the jacket, pants, and rash guard separately in a well-ventilated space. Proper airflow helps to dry the material evenly and prevent mildew.
3. Do Not Overload the Washing Machine
Overloading the washing machine with multiple gis may prevent proper cleaning. Water and detergent need room to circulate for effective washing.
Suggested Limit:
Wash no more than 2 or 3 complete gi sets per cycle, depending on the capacity of your washing machine. This ensures thorough cleaning and reduces wear and tear on both the garments and the appliance.
4. Use White Vinegar or Odor-Eliminating Products
Even when washed regularly, gis can retain unpleasant odors. Adding white vinegar or a sports-specific odor eliminator to the softener compartment of your washing machine can help neutralize smells and kill odor-causing bacteria.
Note:
These products are generally safe for cotton and will not damage the fabric when used appropriately.
5. Avoid Tumble Drying
While tumble drying may be convenient, it can significantly shorten the lifespan of your gi—especially the jacket, which is often made of heavier woven cotton. High heat can cause shrinkage, weaken fibers, and damage stitching.
Recommended Approach:
Air dry your gi by hanging it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and degrade fabric over time.
6. Wash Your Belt Alongside Your Gi
Contrary to popular myth, your belt should be washed as frequently as your gi. Belts accumulate the same sweat and bacteria and should be kept clean for hygiene and odor control.
Tip:
Consider owning multiple belts so that you always have a clean one ready when another is in the wash.
Conclusion
Proper gi care is a reflection of discipline and respect—for yourself, your training partners, and the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your gear, maintain cleanliness, and contribute to a healthier training environment.