Debunking laundry myths: separating fact from fiction for BJJ practitioners

The truth about cleaning your BJJ gear: Debunking common laundry myths

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), your training gear endures a lot—from intense grappling sessions to hours on the mats. Properly caring for your gi, rash guards, and other gear is essential to keep them clean, hygienic, and long-lasting. But with all the laundry tips circulating in the BJJ community, some common myths can lead to misunderstandings and, potentially, improper care of your gear.

Let’s set the record straight by debunking these laundry-related myths and ensuring your BJJ wear remains in top condition.

Key tips for keeping BJJ gear fresh and functional

Training wear needs specific care to stay in peak shape and free from unpleasant smells. By understanding the facts about laundry care, you can avoid practices that may harm your gear over time.

Myth #1: "Hot water cleans BJJ gear better"

The Truth: While research shows hot water can help reduce bacterial loads, it’s not always the best choice for your BJJ gear. Hot water can shrink, fade, and damage fabrics. This is especially true for nylon and spandex, which are common in rash guards. Instead, wash your gear in cold water to maintain its durability. If you're worried about bacteria, add a sanitising additive that targets microbial and bacterial load.

Myth #2: "Bacteria cause all the bad smells in my training gear"

The Truth: Bacteria does contribute to odours, but it’s not the whole story. Sweat leaves behind oils that cling to synthetic fibres, and over time, these build up and contribute to the persistent smells in your gear. Regular detergents alone don't remove many odour-causing compounds. Sanitisers only target bacteria, leaving oily residues behind. 

Myth #3: "More detergent = more clean"

Busted: Adding extra detergent might seem like a good idea, but it can actually do more harm than good. Too much detergent can leave residues. These can attract bacteria and cause a worse stink.

Myth #4: "Fabric softener will make my BJJ gear smell fresh and feel softer."

Busted: Fabric softener makes clothes soft and fragrant. But, it's a poor choice for BJJ gear and other athletic wear. Fabric softeners work by coating fibres with a thin, waxy layer. This coating can trap bacteria, sweat, and oils, leading to unpleasant odours that are even harder to remove. Also, fabric softeners can harm the moisture-wicking properties of synthetic fabrics. This can make your gear less effective at keeping you comfortable during training.

Myth #5: "Washing my belt will wash away my skills"

The Truth: It's a fun tradition to avoid washing your belt. But, keeping it clean won't wash away your skills or the "souls" of those you've wrist-locked! Washing your belt helps reduce the spread of bacteria and keeps you and your training partners safer on the mats. Just toss it in with the rest of your gear for a fresh, odour-free belt that’s ready for action.

Why BJJ laundry care matters

It's vital to separate fact from fiction. It helps to keep your BJJ gear in top shape, prolong its lifespan, and ensure its hygiene. Smelly gear can not only be unpleasant but can also impact the longevity of the fabric and potentially even your performance.

Practical tips for washing BJJ gear

• Follow care labels: Always adhere to the care instructions on your gi and other gear to avoid damage.

• Use a mild detergent: Hypoallergenic, gentle detergents are effective without damaging delicate fibres.

• Add Gear Guard: A capful of Gear Guard breaks down bacteria, oils, and embedded smells deep in the fibres of your training gear that regular detergents and sanitisers miss.

• Air dry when possible: High heat can warp fibres and cause shrinkage, so air dry your gear whenever you can.

• Inspect regularly: Check for wear, tears, or any signs of damage. Early repairs can extend the life of your gear.

The takeaway

Debunking laundry myths is essential for BJJ practitioners who want to maintain their gear in good condition. Knowing the science behind these myths will help you. It will extend the life of your training wear. It will also keep you clean and comfortable on the mats. With products like Gear Guard, you can tackle odours and keep your gear fresh, ensuring you are always ready for your next roll. Remember, accurate knowledge is your best defense against laundry misconceptions.