When you invest in quality BJJ gear, you want it to last, especially a good gi that endures intense training and competition. Proper care can significantly extend the life of your gi, keeping it in top condition and preserving your investment. Here’s a guide to ensuring your BJJ gi, rash guards, and belts stay durable, comfortable, and looking great.

1. Wash Immediately After Training

One of the simplest but most essential steps in maintaining your gi is washing it right after training. Sweat and bacteria can damage the fabric over time and create unwanted odors. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Avoid Letting it Sit: Don’t leave your gi in your gym bag overnight; bacteria thrive in damp conditions, which can lead to unpleasant odors.
• Pre-Rinse Option: Consider a quick rinse before washing to remove excess sweat, dirt, and any mat debris.

While hot water may seem like a thorough option, it can damage the fabric, causing shrinkage or color fading. Cold water, combined with a mild detergent, effectively cleans the gi while protecting the fabric and dye.

• Choose Gentle Detergents: Avoid harsh detergents and bleach, as they can break down fabric fibers and fade colors.
• Turn Inside Out: Turning the gi inside out protects any embroidered logos or patches from wear.

3. Air Dry for Best Results

Heat is a major culprit of shrinkage and fabric damage. Air drying is the safest method to keep your gi in shape. Hang your gi in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or near a window.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: While outdoor air drying is ideal, too much direct sunlight can fade colors. A shaded area is best.
• Use a Hanger or Drying Rack: Avoid hanging the gi by the shoulders, as this can stretch the fabric. Using a hanger or drying rack helps maintain its shape.

4. Avoid the Dryer at All Costs

Dryers may be convenient, but they are hard on BJJ gis. The heat not only shrinks the fabric but can weaken its structure, causing it to wear out more quickly.

• Shrinkage Risk: Even pre-shrunk gis can shrink further in a dryer, resulting in a poor fit.
• Fabric Damage: High heat can damage the fiber structure, making the gi more prone to tears.

If you’re in a hurry, consider tumble drying on a very low, cool setting, but avoid it whenever possible.

5. Avoid Fabric Softeners

Fabric softeners leave a residue that can reduce the moisture-wicking ability of your gi, making it feel heavier and less breathable. This can also attract bacteria over time.

• Opt for Vinegar: For a natural softening effect, add a half-cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. This neutralizes odors and keeps your gi soft without residue.

6. Store It Properly

Proper storage helps maintain your gi’s shape and protects it from unnecessary wear and tear. Avoid crumpling it up in a bag or leaving it on the floor, as this can cause creases and damage.

• Use a Gi Bag: For those who travel or need to transport their gi frequently, a specialized gi bag protects it from dust, odors, and damage.
• Hang or Fold Neatly: Hanging your gi in a closet or folding it neatly prevents wrinkling and helps it stay fresh.

7. Keep It Fresh Between Uses

If you train multiple times a week, you’ll want to keep your gi fresh between uses. Here are a few tips:

• Use Odor Eliminating Sprays: A natural, odor-eliminating spray can help keep your gi fresh if you can’t wash it right away.
• Rotate Gis: Owning multiple gis allows you to rotate between them, reducing the wear and tear on each.

8. Check for Wear and Tear Regularly

Regular inspection helps you catch small issues before they become big problems. Loose stitching or small tears can often be repaired easily if caught early, prolonging the life of your gi.

• Patch Small Tears: Small rips can often be repaired with simple sewing techniques, especially if you catch them before they grow.
• Reinforce Weak Areas: Areas like the collar, cuffs, and armpits are prone to wear. Reinforcing these spots can help extend the gi's life.

9. Invest in Quality from the Start

Lastly, the best way to ensure your gi lasts is by investing in quality gear from the start. Brands like Fuji, Gameness, and Flow Kimonos create gis designed to withstand intense training, using durable fabrics and construction.

• Quality Materials: A high-quality gi is made to last, requiring fewer replacements.
• Long-Term Value: Though pricier upfront, a quality gi that lasts longer can save you money over time.