Introduction
You invest your time, money, and sweat into your BJJ gi — so it makes sense to take care of it properly!
Good gi care isn’t just about keeping it clean; it’s about extending its life, maintaining its fit, and keeping you healthy by preventing nasty odors and bacteria buildup.
In this guide, we’ll show you the best way to wash, dry, and maintain your BJJ gi like a pro.
1. Why Proper Gi Care Matters
🦠 Hygiene: A sweaty gi is the perfect place for bacteria and fungus to grow. Regular washing keeps you safe from skin infections like ringworm or staph.
💸 Save Money: A well-cared-for gi can last for years, saving you from constantly buying new ones.
🎯 Stay Competition Ready: Dirty, ripped, or shrunk gis can get you disqualified from tournaments. Clean, well-fitted gis are always ready for action.
2. Washing Your BJJ Gi: Step-by-Step
✅ Always Wash After Every Training Session
Never leave your gi in a bag overnight — it causes bacteria and bad smells!
Here’s how to wash your gi the right way:
- Turn it inside out: Protects the outside fabric and patches from wear.
- Cold Water Only: Hot water can shrink cotton dramatically.
- Mild Detergent: Use gentle detergents — avoid strong chemicals and bleach.
- No Fabric Softener: It leaves a slippery film and weakens the gi fabric.
- Separate Colors: Wash white gis separately from blue or black ones to avoid color bleeding.
3. Drying Your BJJ Gi
🌀 Air Dry Only!
Hang your gi in a well-ventilated space to dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight for dark-colored gis to prevent fading.
🔥 Avoid the Dryer!
High heat will shrink your gi and ruin its fit.
Pro Tip: If you must use a dryer (not recommended), choose the lowest heat setting and remove the gi while it’s still slightly damp.
4. Dealing with Tough Stains or Odors
- Vinegar Soak: Add one cup of white vinegar to cold water and soak your gi for 30–60 minutes before washing. This kills odors naturally.
- Baking Soda Boost: Add a half-cup of baking soda during the wash cycle for extra deodorizing power.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: For tough bloodstains or sweat marks, spot-treat with hydrogen peroxide before washing.
5. How to Keep Your Gi Smelling Fresh
✅ Wash immediately after training
✅ Fully dry before storing
✅ Store your gi in an open space (never packed tightly in your gym bag)
✅ Use gi-specific natural antibacterial sprays if needed
6. How to Prevent Shrinking
- Wash in cold water.
- Air dry instead of using a hot machine dryer.
- Hang dry your gi on a wide hanger to maintain its shape.
If your gi is slightly too large, a few cycles of low-heat drying can shrink it little by little — but be cautious to avoid over-shrinking!
7. Bonus Tips: Gi Longevity Secrets
🎯 Own at least 2 gis: Rotate them between training days to let them fully dry and breathe.
🎯 Trim loose threads immediately: This prevents more serious fabric damage.
🎯 Wash your belt too! It carries just as much bacteria as your gi.
🎯 Check your gi’s care label: Some gis are pre-shrunk and may need specific washing care.
Conclusion
Taking care of your BJJ gi is simple but powerful.
Wash it after every use, dry it properly, and treat it with respect — and your gi will reward you with years of hard training and competition success.
Plus, you’ll stay cleaner, healthier, and looking sharp every time you hit the mats.
Respect your gi, respect your craft! 🥋✨
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