By
on May 28th, 2019 in Boxing 
Just like any other sports equipment, boxing gloves are susceptible to germs and odor. Through repeated use your equipment will develop bacteria and it is important to ensure that you clean your equipment regularly. This is even more critical when equipment and boxing gloves are shared amongst different users. You don’t want to wear stinky gloves and those working around you don’t want to smell them either. See our tips below on how to clean boxing gloves and keep your equipment in great shape longer. Our Best Tips For Cleaning Boxing Gloves:
Don’t Let Them Sit
Leaving you boxing gloves in an equipment bag will not allow them to dry effectively. Ensure that you always allow your gloves to dry out. Even if you don’t have time to do any other cleaning you should at a minimum ensure that you have let any sweat or moisture on your boxing gloves dry out immediately after use. If you allow sweat or moisture to stay on your boxing gloves, they could develop mold and will undoubtedly develop a smell. If possible, consider transporting your gloves outside of an equipment bag after use in order to allow them to dry out more effectively.
Wipe Them Off
It is best practice to wipe your gloves off after each use. This will cut down on the amount of moisture that is inside the glove and help lessen the drying time. Use a small towel to clean the inside of your glove and try to cover as much surface area as possible. Wiping out your gloves will not remove bacteria but it can reduce the production of odors.
Clean Them Out
The dirtiest part of your boxing gloves is the inside of your gloves. As you workout, you sweat and may also shed some dead skin. It is important for you own health to insure you clean the inside of your gloves regularly to prevent bacteria buildup that could make you sick. Use a gentle detergent such as a dish soap or use a natural cleaner like vinegar. Like you would wipe off your gloves to dry them use a spray bottle or a wet cloth to gently clean the inside of your gloves. Always avoid products that only mask the smell of your equipment. Scented sprays won’t help you clean your gloves but will instead only cover up the smell unit the next use. If possible, check the tag on your gloves for care instructions. Depending on the material of the inside on your gloves you could damage them with cleaning.
Keep the Exterior Clean
The inside of your gloves aren’t the only thing that comes into contact with sweat. If you have been sparring you likely have sweat all over the exterior of your gloves, and maybe even blood too! No one wants to be touched with a dirty boxing glove. It is just as important for you to clean the outside of your gloves as it is the inside. Check the material of your boxing gloves to ensure you do not damage them during cleaning. Most gentle cleaners should work for cleaning your gloves.
Take Care of Your Leather
If your gloves are made of leather, you may need to condition your gloves to prevent them from cracking and becoming damaged. It may be helpful to ask your trainer how they recommend condition your gloves. There are a variety of leather condition products available for you to choose from. Consider condition your gloves on a regular schedule to help keep them in the best shape possible.
Stay on Top of Cleaning
If you have invested in a quality pair of boxing gloves it is critical that you take care of them. Following the tips provided above is a great way to ensure that you aren’t only saving your hide. Leather gloves anyone? But you are also ensuring that you aren’t throwing stinky punches.
Though you may be in a hurry to get going after training or sparring always ensure that you allow your gloves to dry completely. Allow your gloves to sit in the open air when not in use to help insure they are not retaining moisture. Your future self will thank you for not letting allowing your gloves to stay sweaty. No one likes putting their fists into a soggy sweaty glove from the day before.
What About My Boxing Pads?
If you own your own set of boxing pads, it is a great idea to follow the same care instructions that you would for you gloves. Professional boxing gyms such as Grant’s MMA have a system in place to ensure that all equipment is cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis. Even if you pads are for personal use only, it is still a good idea to keep them clean. Proper care will extend the life of your equipment be it boxing gloves or bags.
Always allow your boxing pads to dry after use. Remember to pay extra attention to handles and straps that come into close contact with arms and hands of the holder. If you are ever in doubt about how to clean your boxing equipment refer back to your coach or check out the tag on your bag.
What Are the Best Boxing Gloves to Buy?
The boxing gloves that are best for you are the ones that suit your budget and your usage needs. It is always a good idea to consult your coach before spending money on equipment. You don’t want to get stuck paying for high end equipment that you don’t need, or cheap equipment that won’t last.
If you haven’t tried a boxing class yet and are simply practicing on your own at home, what are you waiting for? Take your training to the next level by booking a free class with Grants MMA. We have the skills and knowledge to help you achieve your fitness, recreational or competitive boxing goals. See our combined experience by checking out our trainers.
