Our 4 step guide to get the smell out of BJJ rash guards
If you’ve ever pulled your favourite rashie out of your training bag knowing its fresh out of the wash, only to catch that familiar spicy aroma once you've warmed up, you’ve definitely wondered how to get the smell out of your BJJ rash guard. It's not you, or your hygiene - We promise! It's mostly down to the material of the rashie.
But fear not—with the proper care routine, you can get the smell out of your BJJ guard, keeping it fresh, clean, and ready for the next mat session.
In this article
Why proper care of your BJJ rashguard matters
Rash guards aren’t only a layer of clothing; they’re your first defence against mat burns, skin-to-skin contact, and skin irritation. But sweat residues, bacteria and what they leave behind, and other organics can build up deep inside the fabric’s fibres without proper care. This can lead to unpleasant odours and a shorter lifespan for your gear.
Here’s the science: sweat isn’t just salty water. It’s a complex mixture of proteins, oils, and other compounds that the bacteria on your skin love to munch on.
After eating, bacteria leave behind residues that can get stuck in the fibres of synthetic fabrics, like those found in rash guards. These residues cling to the fibres, no matter how hard detergents or sanitisers try to remove them. When these residues warm up the next time you wear the rashie, mix it with fresh sweat, and evaporate, they take on a whole new aroma. This smell is also called "permastink".
Some people have described an ammonia-like smell after a heavy workout. Ammonia is a by-product of bacteria on the skin metabolising the organic compounds in sweat!
How to wash and get the smell out of your BJJ rash guard
Step 1: Prepare the load
Turn your rashie inside out.
This little hack can protect logos or graphics printed on the outside your rash guard.
Separate your laundry.
Avoid washing your rash guard with towels, fleece, or clothing with zippers and buttons to prevent lint, pilling, or snags. You may consider putting your rash guard into a a mesh lingerie or laundry bag to protect it through the washing cycle.
Step 2: Add your detergent.
Using a mild detergent is best when you wash your BJJ rash guard. You might think you need to deep clean with bleach or a harsh cleaner. These ingredients can damage the fabric. They can also ruin its moisture-wicking abilities and any graphics.
Curious about what kind of detergent to use? Check out this How Stuff Works article on the Pro's and Con's of liquid, pods and powder laundry detergents, as well as this article from Consumer Reports article answering the question of whether sheets are effective as liquids.
Avoid using fabric softeners in your washing cycle. These trap the residues that bacteria leave behind in the fibres, making them even harder to remove!
Step 3: Odour or bacterial control additives.
It's at this point that you can add your preferred remedies for extra bacterial reduction, or odour control. These may be vinegar, borax, or sports sanitisers, amongst others. Be aware, these may not fully eliminate the causes of recurring odours, which is where our odour-removing additive Gear Guard comes in.
Step 4: Wash on a cold, gentle cycle.
Hot water can shrink or warp synthetic fabrics, reducing their elasticity and performance. Use cold water and a gentle cycle to preserve your rash guard’s moisture-wicking and compression properties.
How to dry your rash guard
Proper drying will not only extend the life of your rashie but also ensure that it performs well during training and competitions.
First, it's better to air dry your rash guard to help the fabric maintain its integrity. When air-drying, be sure to keep your rash guard away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can degrade the material over time. A sturdy hanger placed inside your bathroom works well; consider using a towel rack or shower curtain rod for convenient drying.
If you must use a machine dryer, always choose the lowest temperature setting. High heat can cause shrinkage, weaken the fabric, and melt any graphics or logos. These issues could hurt both comfort and performance.Whether you choose to machine dry or air-dry, always remember to turn your rash guard inside out before drying, protecting exterior prints.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping washes: Always wash your rash guard after each session. It prevents bacteria and sweat from setting in.
- Using fabric softeners: These coat fibres, trapping odours and reducing breathability.
- Leaving it in a bag: damp, sweaty conditions are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
- Exposure to high heat: Heat can damage synthetic fabrics in the dryer.
- Usage of harsh chemicals: Never use bleach or harsh chemicals to remove odours or stains.
Odour removal made easy with Gear Guard
Even when your regularly wash your BJJ rashie, or other things you sweat in, it can develop stubborn smells that won’t wash away. It may even get to the point where you need to throw the item away! Gear Guard tackles the problem of returning smells in your BJJ rash guard by breaking down the sweat residues that cause the odours, allowing them to be washed away easily and eliminating the source.
