How to clean boxing gloves: 5 different ways

Boxing gloves are your trusty companions in the ring, helping you train, spar, and throw your best punches, and one of the essential items in your boxing kit bag. But just like any sports equipment, they can get dirty, smelly, and covered in bacteria if not properly looked after.

If you’re wondering how to clean boxing gloves and keep them in top condition, this is what you need to know. From disinfecting the inside to removing stubborn smells, we’ll guide you through different methods to ensure your gloves stay fresh, hygienic, and ready for your next workout.

Contents

Why you should clean your boxing gloves

Before we look at the different ways, let’s discuss why cleaning your boxing gloves is so important. Every time you put on your gloves, they build up sweat, moisture, dirt, and even bacteria. These can cause a few issues:

Odour build-up: Sweat and moisture create the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to grow, leading to that familiar, unpleasant “gym” smell.Wear and tear: Over time, dirt and sweat can weaken the materials inside your gloves, reducing their lifespan. Cleaning helps prevent this.Hygiene: Gloves that aren’t cleaned regularly can develop bacteria, which could lead to skin irritations or infections. Disinfecting boxing gloves is essential.Appearance: Clean gloves look much more professional. Plus, it’ll feel nice to train with gear that is fresh.

So, whether you’re training daily or just a couple of times a week, cleaning your boxing gloves is well worth it. Now, let’s look at the different ways to clean boxing gloves effectively.

Different ways to clean boxing gloves

There are a few methods you can use to clean boxing gloves, and not all need specialised products. Let’s go through some of the easiest and most effective ways.

1. Wipe them down after every session

One of the easiest ways to keep your boxing gloves clean is to wipe them down after every use. This can help stop dirt and sweat from building up. Use a clean cloth and wipe the surface of your gloves, both inside and out. You can dampen the cloth slightly with water or use a gentle disinfectant if needed.

2. How to disinfect boxing gloves: Use a disinfectant spray

To kill bacteria and remove odours, you’ll need to disinfect the inside of your gloves. There are lots of disinfectant sprays available specifically for sports equipment. Here’s how to use them:

Step 1: Make sure your gloves are dry. If they’re wet from sweat, leave them to air out first.Step 2: Spray the disinfectant inside your gloves, ensuring you get the areas that come into contact with your hands (the inside of the fingers and the palm area). Follow the instructions on the disinfectant bottle.Step 3: Leave the gloves to dry completely before wearing them again.

Disinfecting your boxing gloves regularly can help keep them free from bacteria and odours. It’s particularly important if you share your gloves or if you’re training in a shared gym space.

3. How to wash boxing gloves: Use a mild soap and water solution

If your gloves are very dirty, you may want to give them a deeper clean. While you should never fully submerge your gloves in water (this could damage the padding and materials), you can spot-clean them with a mild soap and water solution.

Step 1: Mix a small amount of gentle soap with lukewarm water.Step 2: Wet a cloth or sponge with the solution, then gently scrub the outside of your gloves.Step 3: After cleaning, use a dry towel to wipe away any excess moisture and let the gloves air dry naturally. Don’t use a hairdryer or place them near direct heat, which could cause the leather or fabric to crack.

Pro tip: For leather gloves, use a cleaner made specifically for leather to avoid damaging the material.

4. How to clean inside of boxing gloves: Use dryer sheets or odour absorbers

The inside of your boxing gloves is where moisture builds up most. To keep them smelling fresh and dry, you can use dryer sheets, activated charcoal bags, or a silica gel packet. Here’s how:

5. Use a glove deodoriser or antibacterial gel

If you’re struggling with stubborn odours or bacteria inside your gloves, you can buy a glove deodoriser or antibacterial gel. These products are designed specifically for boxing gloves and can help kill bacteria and freshen up the smell.

Apply the deodoriser or gel inside your gloves after each session. These products often come in the form of sprays, wipes, or gels and are very easy to use.

How to stop boxing gloves from smelling

Now that you know how to clean boxing gloves, let’s talk about how to prevent them from smelling in the future. Smelly gloves are usually caused by moisture and bacteria. Here are a few tips to keep your gloves fresh:

1. Air them out after each use

After every training session, it’s essential to air out your gloves. Remove the inserts if your gloves have them, and open them up as much as possible to allow air to flow. This helps dry out any moisture trapped inside, reducing the risk of bacteria build-up.

2. Store your gloves in a well-ventilated area

Avoid storing gloves in a dark, damp gym bag when you’re not using your gloves. Instead, keep them in a well-ventilated area, or buy a glove bag with ventilation holes to encourage airflow. Never store them in a closed-up space, as this can cause moisture to build up, leading to smelly gloves.

3. Use moisture-absorbing products

Moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets or activated charcoal can also help keep your gloves dry. Place them inside your gloves when you’re not using them to help absorb any remaining moisture and stop bacteria from thriving.

4. Clean them regularly

As mentioned earlier, cleaning your gloves regularly is key to stopping them from smelling. If you can get into the habit of wiping them down after each session and disinfecting them once a week, you’ll stop odours from building up.

FAQs

Can I use wet wipes to clean boxing gloves?

Yes, wet wipes are a quick and easy way to clean the surface of your boxing gloves. Choose unscented or alcohol-free wipes to avoid irritating the material or your skin. Wet wipes are particularly helpful for quick clean-ups after a training session.

Will water ruin boxing gloves?

Water can damage boxing gloves, especially if they’re made of leather. Never submerge your gloves in water or soak them. Instead, use a damp cloth for spot cleaning. If your gloves get wet from sweat, dry them properly by allowing them to air dry naturally.

How often should I clean my boxing gloves?

You should clean your gloves after every training session to maintain good hygiene and prevent odours. A deeper clean such as disinfecting or washing the inside, should be done once a week or as needed.

Can I use soap to clean my boxing gloves?

You can use mild soap and water to spot-clean your boxing gloves. Just ensure the soap is gentle and you don’t soak the gloves. Always allow your gloves to air dry after cleaning.

Ready to rumble?

Cleaning and maintaining your boxing gloves doesn’t have to be a hassle, but it’s important for prolonging their life and keeping them fresh. Whether you’re trying to figure out how to clean boxing gloves or how to disinfect boxing gloves, following these tips will keep your gloves in top condition. Remember, regular cleaning not only gets rid of odours but also helps you avoid bacteria and extends the lifespan of your gloves.

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How to clean boxing gloves: 5 different ways

Why you should clean your boxing gloves