Caring For Your Gi

The gi is an essential item of Jiu Jitsu (just like a LV or Gucci handbag for some girls!). We learn most of our techniques from the gi such as chokes and using the gi to control the opponent. Therefore we should take a little more care of our gi's. Plus they are not cheap to buy either!

The way you wash your gi can determine the life of your gi. Below are some tips on washing your gi:

Washing Your Gi

In cold water with mild detergent.

Do not use bleach to wash your gi as it will damage the fibres of the gi and reduce the life of the gi.

For coloured gi's such as blue and black:

• Before first wash, soak the gi in the sink or tub with 2-3 cups of white vinegar and the rest water. Soak for 20-30 minutes and then wash. This will help set the color in your gi and minimize fading.

Hanging the gi out to air dry is best to prevent unwanted shrinkage and maintain strength in the fabric. For Hong Kong where you sometimes cannot hang dry due to space, you can put the gi in a dryer. Make sure the setting on the dryer is on no heat or the lowest heat setting. Drying the gi on a high heat setting can damage the gi, not good!

I read that you should not hang the gi in direct sunlight as it will make the fabric stiff and will not last. When I hang my gi out (not in sunlight), the fabric is still stiff after drying. I'm not too sure about this, I guess it's up to you to decide on that one.

　

Caring for Rash Guards & Fight Shorts

Turn rash guards/fight shorts inside out before washing to help prevent the print from coming off. Preferably hand wash with mild detergent.

Hanging out to air dry is best to protect the print on the rash guard or fight short from coming off.

　

Getting Rid of That Stink!

Sometimes you may forget to wash your sweat soaked gi after training and only remember to wash it a few days later which by now probably smells worse than fermenting vomit! Here's what you can do:

Soak your gi in baking soda (for a few minutes) about 1/4 to half a cup and wash in cold wash with regular detergent. That should take care of the stink!

　

Happy washings guys!