Gear
How to clean MMA equipment and know when to replace it
Empty the bag after every class. Wash clothing and wraps as their labels allow, clean padded gear using a compatible method and let it dry before storage. Replace a glove when its construction fails or the manufacturer’s limits are reached. There is no single replacement calendar for every pair.
On this page
Separate the wet kit
Keep sweaty clothes and towels apart from clean items on the way home. Wash training clothing after use and dry it fully. Do not share towels, razors or mouthguards. Follow your glove’s care label for liners and shells. Many padded gloves require wiping and air drying rather than soaking or machine washing.
Clean the things that get passed around
For shared kit and mats, the facility should use a compatible cleaner and disinfectant according to each product’s label, including the contact time. A quick wipe that dries immediately may not satisfy those directions. Check the maker’s surface instructions before applying a disinfectant. Deodorising a glove does not establish that it has been disinfected.
Make the glove check before the next round
Compare left and right knuckle padding, check for exposed foam, split seams or finger loops, and fasten the cuff under gentle movement. Retire gear that no longer holds shape, has rough exposed material, cannot close reliably or cannot be effectively cleaned. Ask the coach to inspect suspected padding failure before anyone else meets that glove.
Check the smaller items
Replace a damaged, distorted or ill-fitting mouthguard. Inspect shin guard straps and edges for slip or abrasion. Keep wash and drying instructions with the kit when materials differ. A usage log can show when a problem first appeared, but the condition of an unsafe item takes priority over its age.