The use of the gloves can be found with everyone in the boxing ranging from fighters to those who exercise through boxing. Gloves may get sweaty, bacterial or have bad odor if not washed for a long time hence washing should be done often. To ensure that you extend the durability of your boxing gloves and you also keep them clean follow these guidelines.
1. Clean with a damp cloth after every use
Every time you are through with your training session, use a dry cloth or towel and polish the outer part of your gloves. This assists in wiping out sweat and any dirt that may be on the surface of the skin. This should preferably be done soon after use because when the sweat dries up, it meshes with the bacteria in the pocket.
2. Air out Your Boxing Gloves
To eliminate the chances of formation of odors and bacteria, proper flow of air is essential. If your gloves have Velcro straps, you should open them or, if they had laces, untie them and leave your gloves somewhere that is slightly aired. It is advisable not to place them in your gym bag or another closed area because this way they will remain wet for a longer time resulting in bacterial growth.
3. Use a Disinfectant Spray
There are disinfectant sprays for the sports equipment including gloves that can be used in killing the bacteria inside. Just lightly mist the interior of each glove, and then allow the gloves to dry in the open air. While washing do not use excessive water as this washes the latex from the gloves and hence weakens the material.
4. Deodorize with Natural Methods
When it comes to further preservation and getting rid of bad odor, bring out natural remedies which include use of baking soda or cedar chips. Sprinkle some baking soda on small cloth and put such cloth in each glove, also you can use sock for the same purpose. Cedar chips serve a similar function too; they are able to absorb moisture as well as unpleasant smells. These should be kept in your gloves the next time you intend on using them to avoid getting contaminated.
5. Deep Clean Periodically
For deeper cleaning of your gloves, do so every few months. It is recommended that one should use a weak solution of soap and water to wash the outside surface. Do not immerse those gloves in water because this can compromise the padding and the leather quality. Pat them with a wet cloth to wash off soap and allow it to dry up from the natural environment.
6. Minimize wear and Tear Off the Leather
If your gloves are leather, some care is required from time to time so as to maintain the quality of the material by avoiding cracking. Leather conditioner is recommended or a small amount of olive oil with the use of clean delicate cloth. It takes the opportunity to retain the look of your gloves and make them last longer as expected.
7. Use Hand Wraps
Wearing hand wraps can help lessen the absorbency of hands wraps by minimizing the amount of toxins and sweat that reaches your gloves. Sweat is soaked by hand wraps and the bands can be washed to ensure clean gloves are used for the next time. Hand wraps should also be washed often so that the bacteria is not passed from them onto the gloves.
8. Avoid Extreme Conditions
Hotness and cold, wet and humidity affect the quality of your gloves and encourage bacterial growth on them. After use, hang your gloves in shaded areas, and if not for use for a long time, do not hang them but keep them in a cool dry place preferably in your wardrobe. Avoid placing them in your car or any area where they can be exposed to very hot or cool temperatures. It is worth to mention that making general care for your boxing gloves you will be able not only to make them smell pleasant, but also to prolong their useful life. It should be noted that following these measures as described above will help you keep your gloves as clean as possible for your further trainings. Just do not forget that any gear is for your protection and ensuring a good performance in the ring as well as your health.