GI WASHING AND CARE GUIDE

Gi Care: Complete Maintenance Guide

Why Gi Care Matters

How Proper Washing Preserves Your Gi's Performance and Durability

Your gi is an investment in your jiu jitsu journey. The way you wash, dry, and store it directly impacts its longevity, appearance, and performance on the mat. Improper washing methods can cause shrinkage, color fading, fabric weakening, and accelerated wear. By following proven care techniques, you'll maintain your Gi's structural integrity, keep colors vibrant, and ensure it performs at its best for years to come.

Washing (No Shrinkage)

Cold Wash Only – Always wash your gi in cold water to prevent unnecessary shrinkage and fabric wear.

Use Mild Detergent – Harsh chemicals and bleach can weaken the fibers and fade colors. Stick to gentle, dye-free detergents.

Separate Colors – To maintain the integrity of your gi, wash white, blue, and black gis separately to prevent color transfer.

Drying (No Shrinkage)

Hang Dry Only – We highly recommend air-drying your gi to maintain its fit and longevity. Avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause fading.

No Machine Drying – Our gis are not pre-shrunk, and tumble drying will cause shrinkage. If you choose to machine dry, select a larger size accordingly.

SHRINKING YOUR GI

Our gis are not pre-shrunk, which means you have the ability to adjust the fit slightly by shrinking them. If you prefer a more tailored fit, follow these steps carefully:

1. Start with a Warm Wash – Instead of cold water, wash your gi in warm water. This will begin the shrinking process. After washing, try it on to see if it has adjusted to your preferred fit.

2. Dry on Warm for More Shrinkage – If the gi hasn’t shrunk enough after washing, you can place it in the dryer on a warm (not hot) setting. Check the fit periodically to ensure it doesn’t shrink too much.

3. Expect Sleeve & Pant Length Reduction – The primary areas that will shrink are the sleeves and pant legs, typically up to 2 inches in length. The body of the gi may also shrink slightly, but the most noticeable changes will be in the limbs.

Proceed with Caution – Once shrunk, your gi will not revert to its original size. If you’re unsure, start with a warm wash and air dry before using the dryer.

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Use cold water and gentle cycle to avoid shrinkage

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Do not iron or dry clean 

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Air dry completely; hang or lay flat away from direct sun

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Avoid fabric softeners

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my gi shrink if I wash it?

Yes, our Gis are not pre-shrunk. Our Starlyte is the only model we carry with a minimal shrink rate. Check the instructions above on how to properly wash to avoid shrinkage.

Can I use fabric softener on my gi?

No, avoid fabric softener entirely. It coats fibers, reducing breathability and grip, and can damage the fabric's performance. Stick to mild detergent and cold water for best results and longevity.

How often should I wash my gi?

Wash your gi after every training session to remove sweat, bacteria, and odors. This prevents mildew, extends fabric life, and maintains hygiene. If you train multiple times daily, rinse between sessions and wash thoroughly after your final session.

What should I do about stubborn stains?

Pre-treat stains with cold water and mild soap before washing. Gently rub the stained area. For tough stains, soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then wash. Avoid hot water, which sets stains permanently.

Is hand washing better than machine washing?

Hand washing is gentler and ideal for premium or embroidered gis, but machine washing on a gentle cycle works well for standard gis. Both methods are effective if done correctly with cold water and mild detergent.

How do I remove odors from my gi?

Wash promptly after training to prevent odor buildup. For persistent smells, soak in cold water with mild detergent for 30 minutes before washing. Ensure complete air drying in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew odors.

Can I return my Gi if I washed it?

No, we do not accept washed Gis as returns. Make sure to check our size chart and try on your Gi before washing to make sure the fit is right for you.

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