Let’s Talk About Hygiene

Essential Hygiene Tips for Jiu-Jitsu Practitioners

Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is one of the most rewarding martial arts, offering both physical and mental benefits. But let’s be honest: training means sweat, close contact, and a lot of time on the mats. Good hygiene isn’t just about respect for your teammates—it’s also critical for staying healthy and preventing skin infections.

Here are some key hygiene tips every BJJ practitioner should follow:

1. Wash Your Gi and Gear Every Session

Your gi, belt, rash guard, and shorts absorb sweat and bacteria every time you train. Never wear them two days in a row without washing. Showing up in a dirty uniform isn’t just unpleasant for your partners—it can spread harmful bacteria. And, yes, that includes your belt. Don’t buy into the myth that washing your belt is bad luck. Wash your dang belt. Don’t be gross.

Bonus tip: If you train often, invest in multiple gis and rash guards so you always have a clean one ready.

2. Shower Immediately After Training

A quick rinse isn’t enough—use soap designed to fight bacteria and fungus. Pay extra attention to areas prone to infections: feet, armpits, groin, and hairline. The sooner you shower after class, the better your chances of avoiding skin issues. If you know you can’t get to the shower right away, a good option in the meantime is wipes made specifically for de-germing. We like Defense Wipes, which are readily available on Amazon. Keep a pack of wipes in your bag and wipe yourself down right after class.

3. Keep Your Nails Short and Clean

Long fingernails or toenails can easily scratch or cut your training partners, creating openings for infection. Make it a habit to trim and file them regularly. Keep a set of nail clippers in your gym bag so you can trim last minute if needed (but please don’t be gross and trim them all over the gym–do it over a trash can).

4. Wear Shoes Off the Mats

Never walk barefoot anywhere off the mats, but especially in the bathroom—this is a quick way to pick up fungus like athlete’s foot. Keep a pair of flip-flops or slides in your bag and wear them anytime you’re not on the mats. If your feet are already dirty when you arrive for class for any reason, wipe them down or take a quick shower at the gym before class.

5. Treat Cuts and Scrapes Properly

Even small mat burns or scratches can turn into bigger problems if ignored. Wash them thoroughly, apply antibacterial ointment, and cover them with a clean bandage before returning to training.

6. Don’t Train Sick

If you’re feeling under the weather, do everyone a favor and stay home. Training while sick not only slows your recovery, but it also puts your teammates at risk.

7. Keep Your Training Bag Clean

Your gym bag can easily turn into a breeding ground for bacteria. Air it out after class, don’t leave damp clothes inside, and wash it regularly.

8. Check Yourself for Skin Issues

Ringworm, staph, and impetigo are unfortunately common in contact sports. If you notice unusual rashes, redness, or sores, stop training and get it checked out by a doctor before coming back to class.

Final Thoughts

Good hygiene in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is about more than smelling fresh—it’s about creating a safe and respectful training environment. By keeping yourself and your gear clean, you protect your own health and show respect for your training partners.

Train hard, stay clean, and keep rolling!