How to Wash and Care for Your BJJ Gi (So It Actually Lasts)
A quality BJJ gi is an investment. Treat it right and it’ll last years of hard training. Treat it wrong and you’ll be shrinking it into a kids’ size or ruining the fabric within a few months. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Golden Rules of Gi Care
Wash cold (30°C max). Hang dry only — never tumble dry. Wash after every single session. Turn inside out before washing. Don’t leave it damp in your bag.
Why Cold Wash?
Hot water causes cotton fibres to contract — meaning your gi shrinks. Pearl weave and ripstop cotton will shrink significantly in a hot wash or dryer. Even one hot wash can drop a perfectly fitting A2 into something closer to an A1. Wash cold every time and you’ll keep the fit you paid for.
Why No Tumble Dryer?
The tumble dryer is the fastest way to ruin a good gi. The heat shrinks it, breaks down the fibres, and damages printed or embroidered details. Hang dry on a rack or line — in the Australian summer, a gi hung outside dries in a couple of hours anyway.
Washing After Every Session — Is That Necessary?
Yes. No exceptions. A damp, sweaty gi breeds bacteria and develops odours that are nearly impossible to fully remove. More importantly, your training partners will notice. Washing after every session is basic mat hygiene.
What Detergent Should You Use?
A standard cold-water laundry detergent is fine. Avoid fabric softener — it coats the fibres and reduces breathability. For stubborn sweat smells, add half a cup of white vinegar to the cycle. It neutralises odours without damaging the fabric.
Dealing with Stains
Blood and grass stains need cold water and speed — cold water dissolves blood, hot water sets it permanently. Apply cold water and a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain before washing. For older stains, a 30-minute soak in cold salt water can help.
First Wash: Expect Some Shrinkage
Even with cold washing, most gis shrink slightly after the first wash as the fabric settles. This is normal — which is why our size guide recommends sizing up if you’re between sizes. After the first couple of washes, shrinkage stops.