Cameron Allen
As a boxer, you are recognized by the gloves you wear. Keeping them in pristine condition regardless of how long you’ve used them is an indication of good hygiene and discipline.
In this article, you will learn how to clean boxing gloves and how to take care of them.
Are Boxing Gloves Machine Washable?
It’s generally not recommended to machine wash them your gloves. Boxing gloves are usually made with materials like leather or faux leather. Machine washing can cause damage to them and affect their durability.
It’s best to clean your gloves by hand, by using a mixture of mild soap and water to gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the gloves to remove any dirt, grime or odors. When you’re done, let them air dry completely by keeping them in the open. This will keep your gloves clean and fresh-smelling without risking any damage to their durability or size.
Taking Care Of Your Gear: How to Properly Clean Boxing Gloves
Keeping your gloves clean is an essential part of maintaining good personal hygiene boxers. Listed below are some ways and tips to help you clean your boxing gloves.
- After you are done training, wipe the exterior of your gloves with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess sweat or grime.
- To combat odor, you can sprinkle a small amount of baking soda or cornstarch inside each glove, leave it overnight, and then shake out the excess powder in the morning.
- If you want a deeper clean, mix mild soap and warm water. Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with soapy water, and gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the gloves.
- Make sure to pay extra attention to the thumb area and the inner lining. These areas tend to accumulate sweat and bacteria more than others. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth in these areas.
- When you are done cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe off any soap residue.
- Allow the gloves to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing them in direct sunlight or drying them using a blow-dryer.
How to Clean Boxing Gloves With Specialist Materials
Cleaning boxing gloves with specialist materials can be a great way to keep them fresh and odor-free.
One of the best methods is to use a specialized glove deodorizer spray. Simply spray a thin layer of the deodorizer inside the glove, and let it sit for a few minutes. Afterward, wipe the excess deodorizer with a clean cloth.
Another great option is to use antibacterial wipes or sprays designed for sports equipment like boxing gloves. These specifically designed products help kill bacteria and keep your gloves clean. For efficient use, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions.
Remember, using a chemical that is not suitable for your gloves can damage them.
Preventive Care to Keep Your Boxing Gloves Pristine
There are several tips and tricks to help keep your boxing gloves clean and smelling fresh.
First of all, properly wash your hands and dry them completely before putting on your gloves. This will prevent any dirt or sweat from getting into the gloves. It is also a good practice to wear hand wraps or inner gloves, this will prevent sweat from getting into the interior fabrics of your gloves.
You should also wipe down the exterior of the gloves after each training session with a clean cloth or disinfecting wipe to remove any dirt or bacteria. It is also recommended to air out your gloves after each use to allow them to dry completely and prevent any unpleasant odors, do this by putting them in open air.
Make sure you avoid storing your boxing gloves in a damp or humid environment, as this can lead to mold. Lastly, you should periodically clean the inside of your boxing glove by using soapy water or glove deodorizers.
Keep Your Hand Wraps Fresh
Keeping your hand wraps fresh is essential to maintain their effectiveness and hygiene. Below are a few tips to increase their longevity. For starters, make sure to wash them regularly. You have the option to either hand wash them with mild soap or put them in a mesh bag and machine wash them on a gentle cycle in the washing machine.
After the cycle is complete, do not use a dryer, instead air dry them completely to prevent any unpleasant odors or mildew. It’s also recommended to have a few pairs of wraps so you can rotate them throughout the week, allowing each pair to fully dry between uses.
You should also avoid storing your hand wraps in a damp or humid environment, as this can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi. To top it all off, if you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or stretched-out elastic, it’s time to retire them and get new ones.
- How to Wrap Your Wrists: Boxing Hand Wraps
Leather vs Synthetic Boxing Gloves
When it comes to choosing between Leather and Synthetic gloves, there are a few different factors to take into consideration.
Leather gloves are often considered more durable and comfortable, they have a classic, luxurious look and premium feel. These are also more breathable and can mold to the shape of your hand over time, providing a comfortable and snug fit. Leather also has natural moisture-wicking properties, which can help keep your hands dry during intense workouts and training sessions.
As for synthetic leather gloves, they are more affordable and easier to maintain. These gloves can sometimes be machine-washed and are also less prone to cracking or color fading. Synthetic leather is also more resistant to moisture, which makes them a good choice for those who sweat a lot during intense training.
Ultimately, the choice between leather and synthetic leather gloves comes down to personal preference and budget.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Boxing Gloves
To keep your boxing gloves clean and durable, there are a few things you should avoid to avoid damaging your gloves.
- Do not throw them in the washing machine: Washing machines can damage your gloves as they employ rough movement. Clean your boxing gloves by hand-washing them
- Do not submerge them in water: When hand-washing your gloves, do not submerge them entirely in soapy water, instead use a clean wet cloth to clean the interior fabric.
- Do not use harsh chemicals: Using harsh chemicals and soaps can damage the durability of your gloves, it is best to use mild soaps, or specifically designed products for sports equipment.
- Do not use direct heat: Putting your wet gloves in direct sunlight or using a blow dryer can cause cracking and reduce durability, it is best to let your boxing gloves air-dry.
How Do You Care For Boxing Hand Wraps?
To care for hand wraps, you do not need to be as cautious as you have to be with boxing gloves. Some tips to take care of your hand wraps are:
- It is recommended to hand-wash them, if this is not possible, put them in a mesh bag and use a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
- Do not use a dryer or place them in direct sunlight to dry them, always air-dry for better results.
- Store them in a dry and cool environment, placing them in a damp environment can promote the growth of harmful germs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Wash Hand Wraps in the Washing Machine?
Washing your hand wraps in the washing machine is not recommended. For all your sports gear, it’s best to hand-wash them to prevent shrinking and damage to durability. However, if you cannot hand-wash them, put them in a mesh bag and use the gentle cycle in the washing machine.
How Often Should You Wash Your Boxing Wraps?
This depends mainly on how much you sweat. If you sweat more than the average person, it is recommended you wash your wraps after every training or sparring session. It is recommended to have multiple wraps you can rotate around the week to promote proper hygiene.
How Do You Know When to Replace Your Boxing Gloves?
Seeing signs of wear and tear on boxing equipment is the biggest indicator that it’s time to retire and replace your boxing gloves. Things like ripped seams, holes, or uneven/ compressed padding are all indicators that your gloves have taken enough abuse and need to be replaced.
How Often Should You Replace Boxing Wraps and Gloves?
Boxing wraps are mostly inexpensive and not very durable, it is recommended to replace them after 8-12 months of use, or when they’re stretch out or tearing apart.
On the other hand, gloves are less prone to damage as they are more durable. In most cases, a good pair of gloves will last you around 1-3 years before they need to be replaced.
