The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi, also known as kimono, is not just a uniform; it's an essential part of your BJJ journey. To ensure your gi lasts, maintains its performance, and remains hygienic, it's vital to follow proper care guidelines. In this BJJ gi care guide, we'll walk you through the steps to help you get the most out of your BJJ gi.
Always wash your gi separately from other laundry items. This prevents color bleeding and cross-contamination.
Use cold water (30-40 degrees) for washing to preserve colors and prevent shrinkage. Cold water is gentle on the fabric.
Choose a mild detergent without strong fragrances or additives. This prevents unwanted odors and maintains the integrity of the fabric.
Turn your gi inside out before washing. This minimizes wear on the outside and prevents patches or embroidery from getting damaged.
Opt for a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh chemicals can affect your gi's durability.
Use the gentle cycle setting on your washing machine to prevent excessive wear and tear.
The best way to dry your gi is by hanging it on a clothesline. This prevents shrinkage and keeps the fabric in good condition.
While hanging your gi in the sun can help eliminate bacteria and odors, prolonged exposure may cause the fabric to weaken.
If you must use a dryer, use low heat settings to prevent shrinking. It’s also worth keeping your wet gi away from radiators, heaters, and any other artificial heat source.
Place your washed gi in the dryer on the lowest possible setting. Opt for a delicate or low heat cycle.
After the first dryer cycle, try on your gi to check if it's still too big.
If your gi is still too large, repeat the drying process for 5-minute intervals using medium or high dryer settings.
Be cautious not to over-shrink; it's better to have a slightly larger gi than one that's too small.
To ensure a proper fit, finish drying your gi by hanging it. This step helps minimize further shrinkage.
After training, let your gi air out to reduce odors before washing.
Soaking your gi in a vinegar-water solution before washing can help neutralize odors.
Add a small amount of baking soda to your laundry to further combat odors.