Whether you train to compete or just for fitness, boxing is an exhilarating and physically demanding sport.
It’s also one of the few sports where you wrap a part of your sweaty body in material that encourages sweat, and the aftermath can be a pungent reminder of the intense training sessions.
Yes, I’m talking about stinky gloves.
Smelly boxing gloves are a common nuisance that many fighters and enthusiasts grapple with, but there are solutions. So take those earbuds out of your nostrils and learn how to stop the pong with these proven cleaning methods.
Afterall, knocking out your opponent may be the aim of the game, but you won’t get any points for making them faint after sniffing your unwashed gloves.
The Culprit is Sweat and Bacteria
To effectively combat the stench, it’s important to understand its root cause.
The primary culprit behind the foul odour emanating from your boxing gloves is the combination of sweat and bacteria. During rigorous training sessions, your hands sweat profusely, creating a warm and moist environment within the gloves – a perfect breeding ground for odour-causing bacteria.
These bacteria thrive by breaking down the proteins, salts, and lipids present in your sweat, releasing unpleasant by-products that result in the dreaded boxing glove stench. While this odour is not inherently harmful, it can be an embarrassing and unpleasant experience, affecting your confidence and overall enjoyment of the sport.
It makes your hands stink too.
Preventative Measures
You learn how to minimise taking damage, so learn how to minimise the damage to the nerve cells in your nose.
While cleaning your boxing gloves is essential, the most effective strategy is to prevent odours from forming in the first place. By adopting a few simple preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the need for extensive cleaning and prolong the fresh scent of your gloves.
Proper Hand Hygiene
Before donning your boxing gloves, make it a habit to thoroughly wash your hands with an antibacterial soap. This simple step helps to eliminate any existing bacteria on your skin, minimizing the number of odour-causing microorganisms that can be transferred to the gloves. Clean hands on the way in equals less smelly hands on the way out.
Hand Wraps
Investing in high-quality hand wraps can be a game-changer in the fight against boxing glove odours. You should be wearing them anyway if you are doing any sort of bag work, but these wraps also act as a moisture barrier, absorbing a significant portion of the sweat before it reaches the gloves. Regularly washing and replacing your hand wraps is crucial to maintain their effectiveness.
Air Circulation
After each training session, resist the temptation to stuff your sweaty gloves into your gym bag. Instead, allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area or in front of a fan. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, so promoting air circulation can significantly hinder their growth and prevent odour formation. Kill the little buggers off.
Deodorising Sprays
Look for products specifically designed for sports equipment, as they are formulated to eliminate tough sweat odours while being gentle on the materials.
One such product that has gained popularity among boxers and fitness enthusiasts is Envii Kit Fresh. This probiotic deodoriser utilises anaerobic bacteria and enzymes to eliminate the odour-causing bacteria, allowing you to simply wipe away any remaining sweat. A quick mist inside and out after each use can work wonders in keeping your gloves fresh and odour-free.
Cleaning Methods to Get Rid of Existing Odours
Despite your best preventative efforts, boxing gloves will still accumulate odours over time. When this happens, it’s time to employ more aggressive cleaning methods.
Here are some effective techniques to restore the fresh scent of your gloves:
Saltwater Soak
The saltwater soak is a time-tested method for eliminating odours from boxing gloves. Salt is renowned for its antibacterial and deodorising properties, making it an excellent choice for tackling stubborn smells. Simply submerge your gloves in a saltwater solution overnight, but make sure that the materials can withstand exposure to saline without damage. Boxing gloves are all made of different materials.
Antibacterial Sprays
If saltwater soaks aren’t your preferred method, consider investing in an antibacterial spray specifically designed for boxing gloves and sports equipment. These sprays work by killing the odour-causing bacteria, leaving your gloves smelling fresh and clean. Ensure that the product you choose is free from harsh chemicals, as these can potentially irritate your skin or damage the glove materials.
Baking Soda Deodoriser
Baking soda is a versatile and cheap deodoriser that can be effectively used to combat boxing glove odours. Simply sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into the gloves, allow it to sit for a few hours, and then shake it out. The baking soda will absorb moisture and neutralise any unpleasant smells, leaving your gloves refreshed. A less messy way to do the same thing is to put the making soda in something absorbent, like a sock.
Apple Cider Vinegar Treatment
Apple cider vinegar is another natural and effective deodoriser that can be used to combat boxing glove odours. Soak a clean towel in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and place it inside your gloves for a couple of hours. The vinegar’s potent aroma and natural oils will help to mask and eliminate any lingering odours.
Stuffing with Absorbent Materials
This is my favourite. For a more traditional approach, consider stuffing your gloves with absorbent materials like newspaper, dryer sheets, or specially designed “glove dogs” filled with cedar chips. They are often called deodorisers too – they look like small pouches or miniature pillows. These materials work by absorbing excess moisture and odours, leaving your gloves fresh and clean.
Maintaining a Clean and Fresh Boxing Environment
While focusing on your boxing gloves is the point of this article, it’s also important to maintain a clean and fresh environment in your training space.
Regular cleaning and disinfection of punching bags, gym mats, and other equipment can help to prevent the spread of odour-causing bacteria and ensure a pleasant training session.
Additionally, consider investing in a high-quality deodoriser or air purifier for your gym or training area. These devices can help to eliminate any lingering odours and create a fresh, invigorating atmosphere, allowing you to focus on your training without any unpleasant distractions.
We have to get sweaty, but we don’t have to get stinky.