How to care for a BJJ kimono / gi? 3 tips

Every BJJ practitioner who takes their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training seriously should know how to care for a BJJ kimono / gi. Here are 3 simple rules to help your gi retain its color, shape, and durability for longer.

Wash at low temperatures

The golden rule is to wash your kimono after every single training session. First of all, if you ignore this, your gi will start to stink over time, and that unpleasant odor is extremely difficult to remove. Second, sweat stains can discolor the gi, and yellow spots on a white kimono aren't something you want to show off on the mat.

The optimal temperature is up to 30°C (86°F), which ensures your BJJ gi won't shrink or lose its shape. Use mild, fabric-friendly detergents for washing. Harsh chemicals and bleaches can damage the fibers, increasing the risk of tears.

Avoid the tumble dryer

The same argument applies here—high temperatures damage the materials used to make a BJJ gi. What's more, heat can cause the kimono to shrink. That’s why the safest method is to dry your kimono flat, on a hanger, or on a drying rack. A helpful tip is to own more than one BJJ kimono. That way, you can rotate them and never have to worry about whether your gi will dry in time for the next session (especially if you train more than 1–2 times a week).

Separate your laundry

Want your BJJ gi to stay white? Only wash it with light-colored items. Washing it with dark clothes will quickly turn a white kimono gray. Also, be careful not to mix in anything red or pink—you can probably guess what would happen ;)