Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a physically demanding sport that requires the right gear, with gloves being the most crucial. It’s essential to maintain them in top condition for performance and hygiene. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best techniques and tips on how to wash MMA gloves, ensuring they last long while keeping any foul odors at bay. Also, if perhaps you need to choose Cups for MMA, we have prepared for you a review of Best Cups for MMA, you can see it here.
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How to Clean MMA Gloves?
Cleaning MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) gloves is important for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the longevity of the gloves. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Wipe Down After Each Use: Right after your training session, wipe your MMA gloves with a soft cloth to remove sweat and moisture. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and odor.
Use a Gentle Cleaner: Prepare a solution of mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the material of the gloves.
Clean with a Soft Cloth: Dip a soft cloth in the soapy water and gently clean the surface of the gloves. Pay special attention to the areas between the fingers and any straps.
Spot Clean Stains: If there are any stubborn stains, use a small amount of gentle detergent and a toothbrush to gently scrub the area.
Wipe Off Soap: After cleaning, use a damp cloth to wipe off any soap residue.
Air Dry: Let the gloves air dry completely before storing them. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can damage the gloves.
Use Glove Deodorizers: To keep your gloves smelling fresh, consider using glove deodorizers. These can be placed inside the gloves between uses.
Condition Leather Gloves: If your gloves are made of leather, use a leather conditioner after they have dried to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
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Store Properly: Store your gloves in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp or humid areas to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Avoid These Practices When Cleaning MMA Gloves
When cleaning MMA gloves, it’s crucial to avoid certain practices to prevent damage to the gloves and ensure their longevity. Here are things you should avoid:
Avoid Soaking in Water: Do not soak your MMA gloves in water. Excessive moisture can damage the padding and material, especially if they are made of leather.
Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals or Bleach: Harsh cleaning agents like bleach can degrade the material of the gloves, leading to quicker wear and tear.
Avoid Machine Washing and Drying: Machine washing and drying can be too harsh for MMA gloves. The tumbling action can damage the gloves’ structure and material.
Do Not Use a Rough Brush: Avoid using abrasive brushes or scrubbers. These can scratch or tear the glove’s material, especially the outer surface.
Avoid Direct Heat or Sunlight for Drying: Direct heat or sunlight can warp and crack the material, especially leather. It’s best to air dry gloves in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Don’t Wring the Gloves: Wringing the gloves to get the water out can distort their shape and damage the padding.
Avoid Using Too Much Water or Cleaner: Excessive water or cleaner can seep into the padding, making it difficult to dry and potentially causing mildew or mold.
Don’t Store When Damp: Storing gloves while they are still damp can lead to mold and bad odors. Ensure they are completely dry before storing.
Avoid Tight Storage Spaces: Storing gloves in overly tight spaces or with other heavy equipment on top can deform them.
Don’t Ignore the Inside of the Gloves: While it’s important to clean the outside, the inside of the gloves should not be ignored as it accumulates sweat and bacteria.
When Should You Buy New MMA Gloves?
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Knowing when to buy new MMA gloves is crucial for both safety and performance. Here are some key indicators that it’s time to purchase a new pair:
Worn-Out Padding: The padding inside the gloves is essential for protection. If you notice that the padding has become compressed or isn’t providing enough cushioning, it’s time for a new pair.
Tears or Severe Wear in Material: Look for any tears, cracks, or severe wear, especially in the striking areas. This wear can compromise the gloves’ ability to protect your hands.
Loose or Damaged Straps: If the straps are no longer securing the gloves properly on your hands, they won’t provide the support needed during training or bouts.
Persistent Bad Odor: While regular cleaning can prevent and remove odors, over time, gloves can harbor bacteria that produce a smell which cannot be removed. This is a health hazard and a sign to replace them.
Loss of Shape: If the gloves have lost their original shape, they may not fit correctly, affecting your grip and technique.
Stiff or Cracked Leather: For leather gloves, if the material has become stiff, cracked, or is flaking, it indicates that the gloves are past their prime.
Interior Lining Deterioration: If the interior lining is deteriorating or coming apart, it can cause discomfort and affect your performance.
Feedback from Training: If you start feeling more impact than usual during training, despite proper technique, it might be because the gloves are no longer providing adequate protection.
Advice from a Coach or Trainer: Sometimes, it might be helpful to get a professional opinion. A coach or trainer can assess the condition of your gloves and advise if it’s time for a new pair.
Frequency of Use: If you train frequently, your gloves will wear out faster. Regular practitioners might need to replace their gloves more often than occasional users.
Remember, high-quality MMA gloves are an investment in your safety and performance in the sport. Ensuring your equipment is in good condition is essential.
Conclusion
Maintaining your MMA gloves is crucial for both performance and hygiene. With the right techniques and regular care, you can ensure they remain in prime condition for a long time. Remember to always prioritize quality and proper usage to maximize your gloves’ lifespan. You might also be interested in our review of Best MMA Gloves For Beginners, you can watch it here
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