How to Wash a BJJ Gi Properly: The Complete Care Guide for Long-Lasting Performance

Learning how to wash a BJJ gi properly is essential for hygiene, durability, and performance on the mat. A clean, well-maintained gi not only looks professional but also helps prevent odors, fabric breakdown, and skin infections—concerns frequently discussed by coaches and athletes across the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community, including guidance shared by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation.

Whether you train daily or a few times a week, proper gi care ensures your investment lasts longer and performs better, as emphasized in gear care articles on BJJ Fanatics and BJJ Heroes.

Why Proper BJJ Gi Washing Matters

BJJ gis absorb sweat, bacteria, and mat residue during every session. Without correct washing habits, fabrics can weaken, shrink, or develop persistent odors. Experts in athletic apparel care, including those cited by Healthline, stress that consistent cleaning reduces bacteria buildup and improves skin health.

Key benefits of washing your gi correctly include:

• Longer fabric lifespan

• Better odor control

• Reduced risk of skin infections

• Maintained competition-legal fit

• Professional appearance on the mat

When Should You Wash Your BJJ Gi?

You should wash your BJJ gi after every training session—no exceptions. Leaving a sweaty gi in a bag encourages bacterial growth, a concern often highlighted by hygiene guides on WebMD.

If you train multiple times per day, rotating between multiple gis—an approach recommended by brands like Tatami Fightwear—helps maintain cleanliness and fabric integrity.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a BJJ Gi

1. Wash Your Gi as Soon as Possible

Washing immediately prevents sweat and bacteria from settling into the fibers. According to fabric-care experts at The Spruce, fresh stains and odors are easier to remove when treated early.

2. Turn the Gi Inside Out

Turning your gi inside out:

• Protects embroidery and patches

• Improves cleaning of sweat-heavy areas

• Reduces surface wear

This technique is commonly recommended in martial arts care forums like Martial Arts Stack Exchange.

3. Use Cold Water

Cold water helps prevent shrinkage and color fading. Textile specialists at Consumer Reports consistently advise cold washes for athletic garments.

4. Choose a Mild Detergent

Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Strong chemicals can weaken cotton fibers, as noted in fabric studies shared by Good Housekeeping.

Avoid:

• Bleach

• Fabric softener

• Heavy fragrances

How to Remove Odor from a BJJ Gi

Persistent gi odor is common but preventable. Natural odor-fighting methods are widely supported by cleaning professionals at Real Simple.

Effective odor solutions:

• White vinegar rinse

• Baking soda soak

• Oxygen-based cleaners

Some athletes also follow hygiene protocols discussed on BJJ Eastern Europe to prevent recurring odor issues.

Drying Your BJJ Gi the Right Way

Air Dry Whenever Possible

Air drying:

• Prevents shrinkage

• Preserves fabric strength

• Extends gi lifespan

Outdoor drying recommendations align with general garment care advice from Cleveland Clinic.

Avoid High Heat

Using high heat in a dryer can shrink your gi and damage stitching. Manufacturers like Fuji Sports consistently warn against heat drying.

If you must use a dryer:

• Use the lowest heat setting

• Remove while slightly damp

How Often Should You Replace Your BJJ Gi?

With proper care, a quality gi can last several years. Reviews from long-term practitioners on Reddit r/bjj suggest replacing a gi when:

• Fabric thins significantly

• Seams begin to fail

• Fit no longer meets competition standards

Common BJJ Gi Washing Mistakes to Avoid

• Letting a gi sit damp in a gym bag

• Washing in hot water

• Using fabric softener

• Mixing gis with heavy towels

• Overusing detergent

Laundry specialists cited by The New York Times Wirecutter note that less detergent often cleans athletic wear more effectively.

WooCommerce-Friendly Care Tips

• Wash after every use

• Cold water only

• Mild detergent

• No bleach or softener

• Air dry recommended

• Store fully dry

These care instructions mirror best practices recommended by premium gi brands like Shoyoroll and Hyperfly.

Expert Hygiene & Safety Considerations

Dermatologists frequently stress the importance of washing training gear promptly to prevent bacterial and fungal infections, advice echoed by medical sources such as Mayo Clinic. Maintaining a clean gi supports not only your health but also the safety of your training partners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Should I wash my BJJ gi after every class?

Yes. Washing after every session is essential for hygiene and fabric longevity.

Can I use vinegar on my BJJ gi?

Yes, white vinegar helps remove odors when used occasionally.

Will my BJJ gi shrink?

Hot water and high heat drying cause shrinkage. Cold wash and air drying minimize this risk.

Can I dry my gi in the sun?

Yes, but prolonged direct sunlight may fade darker colors over time.

Is fabric softener bad for BJJ gis?

Yes. Fabric softener coats fibers and reduces breathability.