Training in martial arts is about more than improving your skills and fitness, it’s also about respect for your training partners and the community. One of the simplest yet most important ways to show that respect is by keeping your gear and personal hygiene in check. A clean gi, fresh rashguard, and properly washed equipment not only help you perform better but also keep the mats safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Why Cleanliness Matters
Martial arts is a close-contact sport. When we train, we’re sharing space, equipment, and sweat. Dirty gear can lead to unpleasant odors, skin infections, and even the spread of bacteria like staph. By keeping your equipment clean, you protect yourself, your teammates, and the training environment. Clean gear also lasts longer, saving you money in the long run.
How to Wash Your Gear
Gloves
Boxing and kickboxing gloves absorb sweat every time you train. If they’re not cleaned, they quickly become smelly and unhygienic.
- Wipe the inside with a clean towel after each session.
- Spray a disinfectant or glove deodorizer inside to kill bacteria.
- Let them air out in a well-ventilated area, never leave them in your gym bag.
- For deep cleaning, consider glove deodorizers (like cedar-filled inserts) to absorb moisture.
Shinguards
Shinguards take just as much punishment as gloves.
- Wipe them down after training with a disinfectant wipe or spray.
- Air them out to fully dry, avoid leaving them zipped in a bag.
- If the material allows, hand wash with mild soap and water every few weeks.
Hand Wraps
Hand wraps should be treated like socks—you should wash them after every use.
- Roll them loosely and put them in a mesh laundry bag.
- Wash with your regular laundry in cold water.
- Hang them to dry (do not tumble dry, which can damage elasticity).
Gi
A clean gi shows respect for the art and your partners.
- Wash your gi immediately after every class.
- Use cold water to preserve color and prevent shrinking.
- Avoid bleach, which can weaken fabric fibers.
- Hang dry to avoid shrinkage, though a low tumble dry can be used if needed.
Rashguards and Spats
Because they are worn close to the skin, rashguards should be washed after every use.
- Wash in cold water with mild detergent.
- Avoid fabric softener (it traps bacteria and reduces breathability).
- Hang dry to preserve elasticity and fit.
Personal Hygiene on the Mats
Clean gear is only part of the equation. Personal hygiene is equally important. Here are some essentials:
- Shower daily (and ideally after training).
- Trim nails on both hands and feet to avoid scratching partners.
- Cover cuts or abrasions with athletic tape or bandages before training.
- Use deodorant—remember, you’re training in close quarters.
- Bring a towel if you sweat heavily, and wipe down after rounds.
By staying clean and fresh, you’re making training safer, healthier, and more enjoyable for everyone.
Respect Yourself, Respect Your Partners
At High Altitude Martial Arts, we pride ourselves on being a community that supports one another. Cleanliness and hygiene are simple but powerful ways to show respect for yourself, your teammates, and the gym. When everyone takes responsibility for keeping their gear fresh and their hygiene sharp, the mats stay safe, and the training environment thrives.
So wash that gi, scrub those wraps, and air out those gloves, you’ll thank yourself, and your partners will too.
