Caring for Your 100% Cotton BJJ Gi
Caring for your 100% cotton BJJ Gi is important to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Gi:
Wash after each use: To keep your BJJ Gi clean and hygienic, it’s very important to wash it after each use. Remember you are not just washing out your sweat, you're also washing out the sweat from everyone you've rolled with.
Wash in cold water: Wash in cold water. If your machine doesn't have a cold setting use the lowest temperature on your machine. Washing on a higher temperature can not only cause excessive shrinking but can also warp the collar of the jacket.
Wash inside out: Always wash your Gi inside out, this prevents other clothes or indeed the Gi itself from rubbing the fabric. Particularly in coloured BJJ Gl’s this will help to keep the Gi’s correct colour for longer.
Use mild detergent: Avoid using harsh detergents or any bleaches, as they can damage the fabric. Instead, use a mild detergent specifically designed for athletic wear or a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent. There is no need to wash with any other products (i.e. vinegar, bicarbonate of soda etc).
Avoid using fabric softener: Fabric softener can leave a residue on your Gi that can make it difficult for your opponents to grip, making it illegal in competition.
Hang dry: Never put your Gi in the dryer, as the heat will shrink and damage the fabric. Instead, hang it up to dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not let it dry against any high temperatures i.e. radiators, towel rails. Avoid leaving it in the sun: exposure to UV rays can cause the Gi to fade and weaken the fabric.
Ironing: If you are one of the people who likes to iron their Gi’s, please iron inside out and not over any of the patches. Even though the patches on the Gl’s are woven, they can sometimes stick to the bottom of an iron.
Shrinkage: By nature, all BJJ Gi’s will shrink slightly. Cotton is a material that will absorb water heavily when washed. When the Gi is then dried the material will shrink back and condense down to its tightest form. If it is dried at a high temperature the water evaporates from the material quicker and the cotton condenses or shrinks more. That is why when washing and drying you should do so on the lowest temperature possible.
Repair any holes or tears: As soon as you notice any holes or tears in your Gi, it is best to repair them as soon as possible to prevent them from getting worse.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your BJJ Gi stays in great condition for as long as possible.
What does "gi", "dogi" or "kimono" mean anyway?!
Keikogi (稽古着) (keiko, "practice", gi, "dress or "clothes"), also known as dōgi (道着) or keikoi (稽古衣), is a traditional uniform worn for training in Japanese martial arts and their derivatives. Emerging in the late 19th century, the keikogi was developed by judo founder Kanō Jigorō.