Sparring with a sweaty, smelly opponent is no fun. Neither is working the heavy bag with gloves that smell like they were fished out of a New York City sewer.
And don't even get us started on the toe-curling stench of gloves that haven't been cleaned in months (or years!). No matter how tough you are, there's no way you can last more than a couple of rounds with gloves that smell like death itself.
That's why it's important to keep your boxing gloves clean. Not only will it help you avoid offending your training partners, but it will also extend the lifespan of your gloves.
After all, you can't very well expect to get a new pair of gloves every time they start to smell bad.
So if you want to keep your boxing gear—and your nose—in tip-top shape, read on for our guide on how to clean boxing gloves.
Step 1:
Remove the Lining
The first step in cleaning your boxing gloves is to remove the lining. This will give you better access to the areas where bacteria like to hide, and it will also help your gloves dry more quickly after being cleaned.
Most glove linings can be removed by simply pulling them out from the top of the glove. However, some models may require you to cut the lining out with a sharp knife or scissors.
Step 2:
Clean the Shell
Once the lining has been removed, you can focus on cleaning the shell of the glove. The best way to do this is with a mild soap and warm water.
Simply mix together some soapy water in a bucket or sink, and then use a damp cloth or sponge to scrub down the outside of the glove.
Be sure to pay extra attention to areas where dirt and sweat tend to build up, such as the fingers, wrist straps, and palms. Rinse off the soap with clean water when you're finished scrubbing, and then let the gloves air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Step 3:
Clean the Lining
Now that the shell of the glove is clean, it's time to move on to the lining. If possible, soak the lining in a mixture of warm water and mild soap for about 15 minutes before scrubbing it clean with a soft brush or sponge.
Once it's been thoroughly cleaned, rinse off any remaining soap with cool water and then let it air dry completely before putting it back into your gloves.
Step 4:
Deodorize Your Gloves
Even if you've managed to remove all of the dirt and sweat from your gloves, they may still retain some residual odors. To get rid of these odors once and for all, we recommend deodorizing your gloves with baking soda or cornstarch.
Simply sprinkle either one of these ingredients inside your gloves (being sure to get into all those nooks and crannies), and then let them sit overnight so that the powder has a chance to absorb any lingering odors.
In the morning, just give your gloves a good shake or two so that any excess powder falls out, and then put them away until you're ready to use them again.
If your gloves are at a stage where they are just not cleanable anymore, it's probably time for a new pair. Click the button below to start fresh with our new top picks.
Conlusion
By following these simple steps, you can keep your boxing gear—and your nose—fresh and clean all year long!
Just remember to wash your gloves after every use (or at least once a week), and always let them air dry in a well-ventilated area before storing them away.
With just a little bit of care, your boxing gloves will stay smelling fresh as daisies for years to come!
