We all know the excitement of slipping on our favorite Muay Thai gloves and feeling like a fighter ready to take on the world. But that feeling can quickly fade when you realize that the stench from your gloves could knock out an opponent on its own.
As a fighter, you put your gloves through a lot of wear and tear, which means they’ll get dirty and smelly over time. But cleaning them can be a hassle and often gets pushed to the bottom of your to-do lists.
However, neglecting to clean your gloves and hand wraps can lead to an unpleasant odor and a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can lead to skin infections. As much as we love Muay Thai, no one wants to be sidelined due to an avoidable injury.
That’s why This blog contains a guide to help you keep your gloves and hand wraps fresh, clean, and bacteria-free. You will also find step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to make cleaning a breeze.
Maintenance of Muay Thai Gloves and Hand Wraps
Here are the Best practices for cleaning and maintaining your Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps so you can train worry-free.
1. How to clean Muay Thai Gloves?
Let’s face it, we all love the satisfying thwack of our gloves hitting the bag during Muay Thai training. But after a while, those gloves can start feeling stinky. Not only is the smell off-putting, but it’s also a sign that bacteria are thriving inside your gloves. That’s why it’s essential to clean your Muay Thai gloves regularly.
Here’s how you can do it:
Hand Washing Technique
Cleaning your gloves with soap and water is an easy and effective way to get them clean.
- First, fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of soap.
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently wipe down the inside and outside of the gloves.
- Pay special attention to areas where sweat accumulates, such as the wrist and finger.
- Rinse the gloves with clean water and repeat the process until the water runs clear.
Machine Washing Technique
While washing gloves in a washing machine is not always recommended [1], as the agitation and spinning motion of the machine can damage the gloves over time. If you wash your gloves in a washing machine, place them in a laundry bag and wash them gently with cold water.
Additionally, fasten velcro straps to prevent them from snagging on other clothing [2] or damaging the gloves.
Alternative Cleaning Methods
If you don’t have access to soap and water or are short on time, disinfectant sprays or alcohol wipes are a quick and easy way to clean your gloves. Spray or wipe down the gloves, getting into all the nooks and crannies. These methods are beneficial when training away from home or between classes.
Tips for Drying Your Gloves
After cleaning your gloves, it’s essential to dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup. The best way to dry your gloves is by using a dry towel to blot out any excess water, then hanging them up in a well-ventilated area to air dry.
Avoid putting them in the dryer, as the heat can damage the gloves’ materials. And, to prevent fading or cracking, keep them away from direct sunlight.
2. How to clean Muay Thai Hand Wraps?
Hand wraps – the unsung heroes of Muay Thai training. They’re the first line of defense against sweaty palms and stinky gloves, but let’s be honest, they can get pretty gross themselves. Luckily, cleaning them is easy if you know what to do.
Here’s how to clean your Muay Thai hand wraps:
Machine Washing Your Hand Wraps
Cleaning your hand wraps is a breeze if you can access a washing machine.
- First, place your hand wraps in a laundry bag to prevent tangling.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent to the machine, then set it to a gentle cycle on cold or warm water.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the hand wraps from the laundry bag and hang them to air dry.
Note: When washing hand wraps in a machine, fold the Velcro down to prevent it from snagging or damaging other clothes or wraps
Hand Washing Technique
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, fear not! You can still get your hand wraps clean by hand washing them.
- Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of detergent.
- Place the hand wraps in the solution and let them soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Then, gently agitate them to work out any dirt or grime.
- Rinse the hand wraps with clean water and repeat the process until the water runs clear.
- Finally, hang them up to air dry.
Note: it’s a good idea to be gentle with the Velcro while handwashing to prevent damage or wear and tear over time. You can use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the Velcro and remove any dirt or sweat buildup.
Tips for Drying Your Hand Wraps
Drying your hand wraps is just as important as washing them. After all, nobody wants damp wraps rubbing against their skin during Muay Thai training. The best way to dry them is by laying them flat on a clean towel and rolling them up. This will squeeze out any excess water and help the wraps dry faster. Once the towel is soaked, unroll it and hang the hand wraps up to air dry.
Pro Tips for Clean and Fresh Muay Thai Gloves and Hand Wraps
You’ve learned how to clean your Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps, but there’s more to keeping them in top shape than just washing them. Here are some tips and tricks to help maintain your gear and prevent nasty odors and bacteria growth.
How to prevent foul odors in gloves and hand wraps?
Nobody wants to smell like a gym bag, which also goes for your gloves and hand wraps. To avoid foul odors from building up in your gear, try some of these tips:
- Air out your gloves and hand wraps after each use by opening them up and leaving them in a well-ventilated area
- Add vinegar while washing to decrease the stinky smell.
- Use a deodorizing spray or powder to freshen up your Muay Thai gear between washes
- Invest in odor-resistant materials like bamboo or charcoal-infused fabrics [3] for your hand wraps
Best practices for storing gloves and hand wraps
Storing your gloves and hand wraps properly can help prevent bacteria growth and keep your gear in good condition. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Leave your gear in a dark, damp gym bag or locker [4]. Instead, hang them up in a well-ventilated area to air out and dry.
- Avoid storing your Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can cause them to warp or break down over time.
- Use a disinfectant spray or wipe to clean your gear before and after each use to help kill bacteria and prevent the spread of germs.
How often should you clean Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps
It’s essential to clean your Muay Thai gloves, and hand wraps regularly to prevent bacteria growth and keep them smelling fresh. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Clean your gloves and hand wraps after each use to avoid sweat and bacteria buildup
- Machine wash your hand wraps at least once a week, or more often if you’re doing Muay Thai training frequently
- Give your gloves a thorough cleaning every few months by hand washing or using a disinfectant spray.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning and maintaining your Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps is crucial to your training routine. Not only will it help prolong the life of your gear, but it will also ensure a hygienic and comfortable training environment. Following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can keep your gloves and hand wraps in top shape and ready for your next Muay Thai training session. Remember, cleaning and maintaining your Muay Thai gloves and hand wraps is not only about hygiene but also about prolonging the life of your gear.
FAQs
1. Can I use alcohol to clean my Boxing gloves?
Yes, you can use alcohol to clean your boxing gloves. Also, properly dry out your gloves after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
2. How do I keep my Muay Thai gloves from smelling?
To keep your Muay Thai gloves from smelling, air them out after use, use odor-eliminating sprays, and wash them regularly.
3. Can I put Vaseline on my boxing gloves?
Yes, Vaseline is safe for your boxing gloves as it helps moisturize [5] and protects the leather material from cracking. However, it is essential to note that excessive use of Vaseline can cause the gloves to become too slippery, affecting your grip during training.
References:
[1] https://cargofighter.com/boxing-gloves-in-the-washing-machine/
[2]https://www.podiumwear.com/2016/01/how-to-protect-your-custom-apparel-from-velcro-damage/
[3]https://www.sportcasuals.com/news/bamboo-charcoal-fabric
[4]https://evolve-mma.com/blog/how-to-clean-your-muay-thai-boxing-gloves/
[5]https://www.rolexlanolin.com/blog/what-can-you-use-to-rub-on-your-baseball-glove-to-break-it-in/