How to wash boxing gloves: everything you need to know and professional advice

Hello young boxers! Today we're going to be talking about something really important: how to look after your faithful companions in the ring, i.e. the boxing gloves. You know, gloves are like your armour, and armour should be respected! So why is it so important to keep them clean? Firstly, for reasons of hygiene. Nobody wants to slip their hands into gloves that smell like a football changing room after a match in the rain, do they? Secondly, it's a question of comfort and performance. Well-maintained gloves are the secret to staying at the top of your game. And finally, it's about respect, for yourself and your opponents. You don't go into the ring wearing shabby equipment!

Why is glove hygiene so important?

Let's zoom in on hygiene. Your boxing glovesThey're a bit like a second skin. They absorb all the sweat and stress from your training and fights. And if you don't look after them, they can become a veritable breeding ground for bacteria. Just imagine: those microscopic little creatures crawling around on your hands... Yuck! Not only can it be bad for your health (we don't like infections here), but it can also affect your gym mates. Keeping your gloves clean is also a question of respect for others.

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Sweat: your gloves' number one enemy

Let's talk about sweat! It's an inevitable part of boxing. But did you know that sweat is super corrosive? It can degrade the material of your gloves, especially if they're leather. Imagine that every drop of sweat is like a small attack on the softness and suppleness of your gloves. What's more, the constant humidity can deform the padding, and a deformed padding is like a pillow that's worn out: it won't protect anything any more.

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The risks of not washing gloves

If you skip cleaning, you can expect a few inconveniences. Apart from the unglamorous smell, your gloves could become a breeding ground for fungus and other nasties. Just imagine: you're getting ready for an intense workout, you slip your hands into your gloves and... surprise! An unpleasant sensation, an itch, an irritation. Not ideal for concentrating on your technique, is it?

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How dirt affects equipment performance

A dirty glove is also a glove that no longer does its job properly. Dirt and moisture make the glove heavier, the leather less supple and the padding less responsive. You get the idea? It's like trying to box with weight wrists. What's more, a glove that doesn't hold your hand properly opens the door to injury. And we want to avoid that at all costs!

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Good practices for washing gloves

Now let's talk solutions! Washing your gloves isn't complicated, but it does require a bit of know-how. It's like learning a new punch: once you've got the knack, it's in the bag.

The essential stages of washing

Let's start with the basics: after each training session, air out your gloves. Don't stuff them in the back of your bag like dirty socks! A breath of fresh air is the first step towards healthy gloves. Next, take a slightly damp cloth and wipe the outside. Gently, as if you were stroking a kitten. For the inside, a quick spritz of homemade disinfectant spray (water, vinegar, and a few drops of essential oil for fragrance) and you're good to go. And remember, the washing machine is the sworn enemy of your gloves.

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Recommended products and those to avoid

When it comes to products, be smart. A good disinfectant spray suitable for sports equipment is ideal. But beware of products that are too strong. You don't want to end up with gloves that look like an old plastic bag left out in the sun, do you? Look for gentle products, natural if possible. Your gloves will thank you!

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Optimum drying and preservation

And let's talk about drying! This is a crucial stage. Leave your gloves to dry in the open air, but avoid direct sources of heat such as radiators or the hot sun. Want to keep your gloves in shape? Slip something into them to keep them open, like rolls of paper or even tennis balls. This allows air to circulate and dries the inside out properly.

Conclusion

And there you have it, my future champions! Now you're ready to look after your gloves like real pros. A well-maintained glove is a faithful ally in the ring. They protect you, support you and help you give your best. So pamper them, and they'll give you back a hundredfold. Step into the ring with pride, and above all, with clean gloves ready for action! Box with style, box with passion!

Sources : Punching bag boxing