Introduction
Your rash guard takes a beating every week — sweat, friction, mat grime, and constant stretching. And while rash guards are built for durability, they won’t last long without proper care. Good washing habits prevent odors, bacteria buildup, fading, and fabric damage, keeping your gear looking sharp and lasting longer.
Whether you train MMA, BJJ, or no-gi grappling, here’s how to take care of your rash guards the right way.
Why Proper Rash Guard Care Matters
Rash guards are designed for:
- sweat wicking
- compression
- durability
- anti-microbial protection
- UV resistance (for some)
But without proper care, they break down faster.
Common problems include:
- permanent odors
- peeling logos
- fabric thinning
- stretched-out sleeves
- color fading
Good washing habits keep your rash guards comfortable, hygienic, and long-lasting — and they save you money over time.
1. Rinse or Wash Immediately After Training
Sweat left inside a bag breeds bacteria fast.
If you can’t wash it right away:
- Rinse with cold water.
- Hang it to air out until you get home.
This prevents the “permanent funk” that never goes away.
2. Turn Your Rash Guard Inside Out Before Washing
This simple step helps:
- protect logos and graphics
- clean the areas where sweat collects
- keep colors vibrant
- reduce pilling and wear
Inside-out washing dramatically extends the life of rash guards.
3. Wash in Cold Water (Never Hot)
Hot water:
- damages elastic fibers
- shrinks the fabric
- fades colors
- weakens compression
Cold water protects the material and cleans it just as well.
Use a gentle or normal cycle — nothing aggressive.
4. Use Mild Detergent (No Harsh Chemicals)
Avoid:
- bleach
- heavy fragrances
- fabric softeners
- detergents with brightening chemicals
Fabric softeners in particular damage moisture-wicking properties and leave residue.
Good options:
- fragrance-free detergent
- sports-specific detergent
- “free & clear” brands
Your rash guard stays soft, flexible, and fully breathable.
5. Add Vinegar for Odor Control (Optional)
For stubborn smells:
Add ½ cup white vinegar into the rinse cycle.
Benefits:
- kills bacteria
- neutralizes odors
- keeps fabric fresh
This is a common trick among grapplers and runners.
6. Avoid the Dryer — Always Air Dry
Heat is the #1 killer of rash guards.
Drying machines:
- crack logos
- destroy elastic fibers
- fade prints
- shrink material
- cause fabric warping
Air drying is best.
Hang it in a well-ventilated area — not in direct sunlight.
7. Avoid Rough Surfaces and Velcro
Rash guards snag easily on:
- hook-and-loop straps
- rough bags
- exposed seams
- textured surfaces
Keep them away from Velcro at all costs — it destroys rash guards instantly.
Store them separately in your gym bag or laundry basket.
8. Never Iron or Heat-Press Your Rash Guard
Even low heat can melt the material or peel graphics.
Rash guards should never be:
- ironed
- steamed
- heat-pressed
- contact-heated in any way
Let the fabric air dry naturally.
9. Don’t Mix With Heavy Items
Avoid washing rash guards with:
- jeans
- jackets
- towels
- heavy cotton
- items with zippers
These rough materials cause friction that wears down the fabric.
Wash rash guards with similar lightweight athletic gear.
10. Rotate Your Gear
Wearing the same rash guard every session leads to faster breakdown.
If you train often, aim for:
- 2–3 rash guards minimum
- 5–7 if training multiple sessions per day
Rotation increases lifespan and reduces wear.
Troubleshooting Common Rash Guard Problems
Persistent Odor
- soak in cold water + vinegar
- use a sports detergent
- avoid letting it sit in your bag
Fabric Pilling
- wash inside out
- avoid rough items
- use gentle cycle
Logo Peeling
- avoid dryer heat
- air dry only
- wash inside out
Stretched Sleeves or Collar
- avoid wringing out fabric
- don’t hang by the shoulders
- lay flat or hang from the bottom hem
How Long Should a Rash Guard Last?
With proper care:
9–18 months of regular training.
Without proper care:
3–6 months before major wear shows.
Your washing habits make the biggest difference.
Final Thoughts
Rash guards are one of the most essential pieces of MMA and grappling gear — and taking care of them is simple. Wash in cold water, avoid heat, keep them away from rough surfaces, and air dry every time. With the right care routine, your rash guards stay fresher, cleaner, and more durable for far longer.
Train hard, but treat your gear right.