Have you noticed that the second you start sweating your clean Gi or rash guard starts to smell? That’s because even with regular washing your uniform isn’t as clean as you think it is! That pervasive odor is caused by a build up of bacteria and minerals. The Midwest is notorious for it’s hard water and once bacteria becomes trapped by a layer of minerals from the water it’s impossible to get the stink out without a deep clean.
Your own deodorant or anti-perspirant is likely contributing to this build, but please, apply those liberally! Of course, you can always just buy new Spring Hill branded gear here but you’re bound to run into the same problem again and again.
Getting the stink out
Removing odors from your uniform is a 2 step process.
- First, you must release the trapped bacteria.
- Second, bacteria must be killed.
Years ago when the twins were born Christian and I decided to use cloth diapers. Getting the stink out of diapers is very much the same as getting the stink out of Gis and rash guards. It’s a little work to do the initial clean but worth it periodically to keep you smelling so fresh and so clean.
If you have a solid wash routine, Gi stink may not even be an issue. Let’s be real though, we know that most of you have never even bothered to read the users manual on your washing machine let alone develop a stringent washing routine.
Release the stink
Since the odor is caused by a build up of bacteria trapped by hard minerals, the minerals must first be released. To do this we recommend a technique known as ‘Stripping.’ This requires a washing agent, a demineralizer, and a degreaser. You can buy products for this purpose such as RLR or you can make your own DIY solutions using the following recipe borrowed from Fluff Love University.
- 3 tablespoons of Washing Soda (Sodium Carbonate)
- 3 tablespoons of Borax
- 3 tablespoons of Calgon (Water Softener)
Begin with CLEAN items, fill your bathtub or wash with hot water, dissolve the demineralizing agents, and add your garments. Soak until the water cools or for 4-6 hours (no more than 8), then rinse.
Kill the bacteria
The previous step is how you break up the minerals to release the bacteria. Now you have to kill the bacteria. For this you can use any sort of bactericide such as bleach or peroxide. Refill your tub with hot water and follow the dilution guide on the bleach or peroxide bottle. Dilute bleach products BEFORE adding them directly to clothing!
Launder as usual
After taking the time to deep treat your jiu jitsu gear it’s frustrating to know that it won’t be long before that insidious stinks creeps in again. This is inevitable unless you soften or demineralize your wash water. Stripping your jiu jitsu gear 2-4 times a year is recommended. Take the following steps to help reduce the amount of extra deep cleaning you need to do:
- Always wash your gear promptly after class.
- If you do not plan to wash immediately hang your uniform to dry completely.
- After washing dry your Gi and rash guard in a dryer.
- Yes, this is will likely cause shrinkage and fabric fatigue but you know what it won’t cause? An environment ripe for mold, mildew, and bacterial growth!
- Hanging white Gis to dry in direct sunlight is also a way to brighten them destroying surface bacteria
- Remember to Wash Your Belt!
