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The Best Ways to Wash Martial Arts Gear
October 5, 2024
-
By
Sophia Grant
Martial arts can be divided into several different categories. For instance, there’s karate, Brazilian jiu jitsu, judo, aikido, and kung fu, many of which involve having training partners.
While they all differ slightly, such as their country of origin, they all have one thing in common—they all involve moves such as punches, kicks, and throws.
If you’ve ever participated in these types of combat, you’ll know that they can be quite tiring. Given that it only makes sense that you would need to wash your uniform.
What’s the best way to wash a martial arts uniform? What detergent should you use?
Can you use the washing machine? Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to keep things clean in your jiu jitsu journey.
How to Wash Taekwondo Uniforms (Doboks)
Taekwondo uniforms, also known as doboks, come in a variety of colors, though white is the most common.
For the most parts, they are made out of traditional cotton; however, some also contain polyester, a synthetic material that pulls sweat away from the skin.
Cleaning Doboks in the Washing Machine
Most doboks are machine washable. Just remember to wash them separately from your other clothes.
Step 1: Prep the Uniform
Remove any patches that are on the uniform, then place the garment in a laundry bag.
Step 2: Load It Into the Washer
Place the laundry bag in the washing machine and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent.
Step 3: Run a Wash Cycle
Run a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water (this is especially true if the uniform is made of cotton). Do not use fabric softeners or bleach as these chemicals can lead to yellow staining.
Step 4: Let It Air Dry
Remove the dobok from the machine after washing and let it air dry in a well-ventilated room. If possible, do not use the dryer; some types of uniforms are more prone to shrinking than others.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Drying rack
Traditionally, the belts should not be washed. If it’s excessively soiled, however, you can clean it.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Sweaty martial arts gear is no match for our enzyme-based laundry detergent!
Getting Rid of Uniform Stains
Your uniform can get stained with regular wear, often from sweat. In cases like that, you’ll want to pre-treat the area before washing.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Soft bristle brush
Step 1:
Combine a bit of water with ACTIVE Detergent in a small bowl to create a cleaning solution.
Step 2:
Using a soft bristle brush, apply the detergent mixture onto the stained spot and let it sit for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3:
Machine wash the uniform as normal.
You can use this method to spot-clean all types of martial art uniforms.
How to Clean Karate Uniforms (Karategi)
Karate uniforms are known as Karategis. They are white in color and are typically made of smooth cotton, a material that provides comfort and unrestricted movement.
Are Karate Uniforms Machine Washable?
Karate uniforms can safely be put in the washing machine as long as you use the right settings.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Drying rack
Step 1:
Place your karate uniform in the washing machine.
Avoid washing it with other items such as boxing gloves as that can cause it to become damaged during the wash cycle.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Avoid using bleach. While it’s effective for cleaning, the chemical can damage the uniform in the long run.
Step 3:
Choose a delicate wash setting and start a cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water as the heat can cause the cotton to shrink.
Step 4:
After washing, take the karate uniform out of the machine and let it air dry on a drying rack.
Occasionally, you can put the uniform in the dryer on the lowest setting. Just don’t make a habit of it.
Can You Hand Wash Karate Uniforms?
If you don’t have a washing machine or don’t want to run a wash cycle, you can wash them by hand.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
Step 1:
Fill a large tub with water and mix in a bit of ACTIVE Detergent to create a bath.
Step 2:
Once the detergent is completely dissolved, place the karate uniform in the bathtub.
Make sure it’s completely soaked through with the cleaning solution and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3:
Gently rub the fabric against itself to get rid of any sweat and oils, then rinse the uniform thoroughly with water.
Step 4:
Press the excess water out of the fabric, then let the uniform air dry on a drying rack or clothesline.
Avoid using the dryer, if possible.
Washing Instructions for Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) Uniforms (Gi)
The Jiu Jitsu Gi is typically made out of heavy cotton. While most are white, they can also be black or blue. Similar to other martial arts, the gi also includes trousers and a belt, the latter of which determines one’s rank.
Machine Washing Your Jiu Jitsu Gis
Given that these uniforms are made out of cotton, they can safely be put in the washer.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- A few towels (optional)
- Clothesline
Step 1:
Place your Jiu Jitsu Gi in the washing machine. If necessary, add a few towels to balance the load.
Avoid washing your gi with other clothes as that can lead to dye transfer.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent to the drum. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
Step 3:
Wash your gi with cold water on a gentle setting.
Step 4:
Once the cycle is finished, take the martial art gi out of the machine and hang it up to dry.
Depending on how thick it is, it can take up to a couple of days to dry completely.
Consider buying more than one set of uniform – that way, you won’t have to worry about it drying on time.
How to Deodorize Muay Thai Shorts and Gloves
Muay Thai is a type of boxing that originates from Thailand. Aside from headbands and armbands, fighters wear shorts and gloves, the former of which is often made out of satin.
Hand Washing Your Muay Thai Shorts
Satin shorts made of silk are quite delicate. For this reason, they should be hand washed.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Clothesline
Step 1:
Fill a sink with warm water and add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent. Swirl the water with your hand to help the powder dissolve.
Step 2:
Once the detergent powder is thoroughly dissolved, place your shorts in the sink. Let them sit in the bath for 15-30 minutes.
Step 3:
Gently rub the fabric against itself to remove any oils or dirt, then rinse the item thoroughly with clean water.
Step 4:
Allow the shorts to air dry, ideally on a clothesline, away from direct sunlight.
Do not put the shorts in the dryer; the heat will cause them to shrink and fade.
Putting Your Muay Thai Shorts in the Washer
You can put your shorts into the washing machine if they are made of materials such as cotton or polyester satin.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Clothesline
Step 1:
Turn the shorts inside out and place them in a mesh laundry bag. That will prevent the colors from fading and any embroideries from peeling off.
Step 2:
Place the laundry bag in the washing machine and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
Step 3:
Choose a delicate setting and wash with cold water.
Step 4:
After the cycle is finished, let the shorts air dry on a clothesline. Do not put them in the dryer or under direct sunlight.
Getting the Stink Out of Your Muay Thai Gloves
Your gloves can get pretty stinky, especially if you don’t air them out. Don’t worry, though, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep them smelling fresh.
Supplies:
- Hand wraps
- Disinfectant spray
- Clean cloth
- Dryer sheets
- Anti-bacterial wipes (optional)
Step 1:
Make a habit of wearing hand wraps when you’re training They will support your hands and absorb a good amount of sweat, which will help prevent odors.
Step 2:
Apply a disinfectant spray to the surface of the gloves. Use a clean cloth to wipe them dry afterwards.
Alternatively, you can wipe them with anti-bacterial wipes.
Step 3:
For excessive odors, consider stuffing the inside of the gloves with dryer sheets.
Keeping your gloves dry will help prevent odors from developing.
How to Wash Judo Uniforms (Judogi)
Traditional Judo uniforms are called Judogis. Similar to karategis, they consist of three parts: the uwagi, obi, and shitabaki, all of which are made from different fabrics.
Using the Washing Machine For Your Judogi
To prevent it from smelling, wash it immediately after practice.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- White vinegar (optional)
- Laundry bag (optional)
- Clothesline
Step 1:
Place the uniform and belt in the washing machine. Consider using a large laundry bag to keep everything together.
Step 2:
Add one scoop of ACTIVE detergent to the drum. Avoid using too much as that can damage the fabric if not rinsed out properly.
Do not use fabric softener or bleach. If necessary, you can add half a cup of white vinegar to help eliminate odors.
Step 3:
Run a gentle wash cycle with cold water.
Step 4:
Once the uniform is washed, allow it to dry on a clothesline.
Do not put it in the dryer; that will cause the cotton to shrink. Avoid drying it under direct sunlight.
How to Properly Clean Sparring Gear – Headgear, Chest Protectors, Hand Guards, Shin Guards, Foot Guards, Groin Protectors
Cleaning sparring gear is a little different in that you can’t just throw everything into the washing machine as that will ruin the padding and materials.
Supplies:
- Anti-bacterial wipes
- Damp cloth (optional)
Step 1:
Wipe the items with anti-bacterial wipes; that will help kill off any odor-causing bacteria that’s on the surface.
Step 2:
Alternatively, you can wipe your gear with a damp cloth (a chlorine bleach/water mixture works great). Allow everything to dry thoroughly afterwards.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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