If you're training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you know how important it is to keep your gi in top shape. A properly maintained gi not only lasts longer but also keeps you smelling fresh during intense rolling sessions. While many people follow basic washing instructions, I’ve developed a tried-and-true method over the years that combines a few extra steps to ensure my gi is clean, soft, and odor-free.
Here’s my approach to washing your BJJ gi and why it’s worked wonders for me.
1. Choosing the Right Detergent and Additives
First things first—what you put into your washing machine matters. You don’t need fancy products marketed specifically for sports gear. In fact, I recommend keeping it simple:
Non-Scented Liquid Detergent: Scented detergents can leave residues and sometimes cause skin irritation during training. Non-scented liquid detergent gets the job done without all the extras. It removes dirt and grime effectively, and because it’s liquid, it dissolves better in the wash, reducing buildup on your gi fabric.
Baking Soda and Borax: These two additives are game changers. Baking soda works wonders to soften the fabric and neutralize odors, while borax enhances the detergent’s cleaning power, especially in hot water. Together, they make sure your gi not only smells fresh but feels soft after every wash.
White Vinegar for Persistent Odors: If your gi develops a particularly stubborn odor, adding white vinegar to the bleach compartment of your washing machine can work wonders. The vinegar helps break down bacteria and remove lingering smells. It’s a natural deodorizer that works better than many commercial products without being harsh on your gi fabric.
2. Washing Temperature: Hot is Best
I’ve always washed my gi on a hot cycle. The high temperature helps kill bacteria, remove sweat stains, and ensure a deep clean. Training in a gi involves a lot of close contact, so sanitizing it properly is crucial not just for cleanliness but for preventing infections like staph or ringworm.
Some people avoid washing on hot out of fear of shrinking their gi, but this can easily be avoided if you choose a quality gi made with pre-shrunk fabric or account for potential shrinkage when purchasing.
3. To Dry or Not to Dry?
This is one of the most debated topics when it comes to BJJ gi care: should you machine dry your gi or hang it to dry? My take is simple—I always machine dry my gi. However, this comes with a caveat: you need to make sure you’re drying a quality gi.
Here’s why:
Quality Matters: A well-made gi from a trusted brand will be less prone to excessive shrinking even after repeated machine drying. When buying a new gi, I often choose one that’s slightly larger than perfect, knowing it’ll shrink just the right amount after a few rounds in the dryer. If you purchase a gi that fits perfectly out of the box, you’re taking a risk that it will shrink too much, so in that case, you should hang dry it.
Hang Drying for Perfect Fit: If your gi fits perfectly and you’re concerned about any further shrinking, the best approach is to hang dry it. This takes more time but ensures that the fabric remains at its original size. One downside to hang drying is that the fabric can stiffen, but adding baking soda and borax during the wash cycle can help keep it soft.
4. Pre-Treatment for Stains and Odors
Sometimes, your gi will take a beating during training and show visible signs—stains or tough odors that don’t wash out as easily. Here’s how to handle that:
For Stains: Pre-treat any stubborn stains (like blood, sweat, or dirt) before tossing your gi in the washer. You can use a little bit of the liquid detergent and gently scrub the stain before starting the wash. Alternatively, enzyme-based stain removers work great for protein-based stains (such as blood).
For Stubborn Odors: If you’ve left your gi in a gym bag too long or it has that infamous “gym funk” smell, pre-soaking can help. Fill a basin with hot water and add a cup of white vinegar or a combination of vinegar and baking soda. Let your gi soak for 30 minutes to an hour before washing. This will help break down any bacteria or buildup that’s causing the smell.
5. Why Careful Gi Washing Matters
Washing your gi properly is about more than just cleanliness—it’s about extending its life and maintaining its performance. Here are a few reasons why taking the time to wash your gi correctly is worth it:
Odor Control: BJJ training can leave your gi soaked with sweat, and without proper care, your gi can start to smell bad even after being washed. Using the combination of baking soda, borax, and vinegar ensures that those smells don’t linger.
Fabric Longevity: The heavy-duty cotton used in gis can last a long time if you treat it well. Regularly washing on hot, using the right additives, and drying appropriately prevents wear and tear.
Fit: If you’re drying your gi, accounting for shrinkage is essential. By choosing the right gi size and drying it with care, you can ensure that it remains comfortable and fits properly for longer. Improper care can result in a gi that’s too small or becomes uncomfortable.
6. Other Tips for Gi Care
A few more tips to keep your gi in top condition:
Wash Your Gi After Every Training Session: Don’t let your gi sit in your gym bag for days. The longer it sits unwashed, the harder it becomes to remove sweat stains and odors. Make it a habit to wash your gi as soon as possible after training.
Have Multiple Gis: If you’re training multiple times a week, it’s a good idea to have at least two or three gis in rotation. This gives you time to properly wash and dry your gi without rushing the process or wearing it down too quickly.
Avoid Fabric Softeners: While fabric softeners may seem like a good idea, they can coat the fibers of your gi, making it less breathable and harder to clean over time. Stick to baking soda and borax for natural softness.
Check out this video where I show how to carry your gi back home without putting it in a gym bag, which is unsanitary unless you wash that bag after every training session. Here is an option I have been doing since I was a Blue Belt.
Conclusion
Washing your BJJ gi is a straightforward process, but doing it right makes a world of difference in keeping your gear fresh, clean, and long-lasting. Using a combination of non-scented liquid detergent, baking soda, borax, and occasionally white vinegar ensures your gi stays odor-free and soft. Machine drying is perfectly fine if you have a high-quality gi and account for some shrinkage, but hang drying works best if your gi already fits perfectly. Follow these steps, and your gi will be as ready for the next roll as you are!
Comments