How to Wash Muay Thai Shorts: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Them Clean and Fresh

Muay Thai is a combat sport that requires discipline, strength, and endurance. But what happens when your Muay Thai shorts become a breeding ground for bacteria and sweat? That’s where knowing how to wash Muay Thai shorts comes in handy. Not only will it keep your shorts smelling fresh, but it will also prevent skin infections and prolong the life of your gear. 

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to wash Muay Thai shorts like a pro, so you can focus on perfecting your technique in the ring. So, whether you’re a seasoned fighter or just starting, read on to learn how to keep your Muay Thai shorts clean and hygienic.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Muay Thai Shorts

Muay Thai shorts are specifically designed to provide the flexibility and comfort you need to move freely during training and fights. These shorts come in a variety of designs and styles. Some are traditional and feature Thai symbols and imagery, while others are more modern and have bold colors and patterns. The common materials for making Muay Thai shorts are satin, nylon, cotton, and polyester.

Satin shorts are a popular choice because they are lightweight and comfortable. Nylon shorts are also lightweight and durable, making them a good option for fighters who want a pair of shorts that can withstand the wear and tear of intense training. Cotton shorts are breathable and comfortable, but they can be prone to shrinking in the wash. Polyester and polyester blend fabric shorts are also a good option, as they are durable and quick-drying.

When buying Muay Thai shorts, choosing high-quality shorts from reputable brands like Top King, Fairtex, and Twins Special is important. These brands are known for producing high-quality Muay Thai gear that can withstand the rigors of training and fighting.

READ NEXT: What is the ideal number of Muay Thai shorts to own?

How to Wash Muay Thai Shorts: Preparation Before Washing

Inspection

Before washing my Muay Thai shorts, I always inspect them thoroughly. I check for tears, dirt, grime, and other signs of wear and tear. If I notice any tears or loose seams, I repair them before washing the shorts. This helps to prevent further damage during the washing process.

Reading Care Label

The care label on my Muay Thai shorts is essential for washing them correctly. I take the time to read the label carefully to understand the recommended washing instructions. The label often includes information about the fabric type, color, and washing temperature.

If the care label recommends washing the shorts inside out, I do so. This helps to protect the color and fabric of the shorts during the washing process. If the label recommends washing the shorts in cold water, I follow that advice to prevent any damage to the fabric.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Materials

When washing Muay Thai shorts, choosing suitable cleaning materials is crucial to ensure your shorts are clean and in good condition. Here are some tips on what to look for when selecting cleaning materials:

• Detergent: Choose a mild detergent that is gentle on your Muay Thai shorts. Avoid using harsh detergents that can damage the fabric or cause fading.
• Cleaning solution: If you prefer a cleaning solution, look for one specifically designed for sports apparel. These solutions are formulated to remove sweat, dirt, and odor from athletic wear.
• Mild soap: If you prefer using soap, choose a mild soap free of harsh chemicals. Castile soap is a good option as it is gentle and effective.
• Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help remove odor from your Muay Thai shorts. Add a cup of baking soda to your washing machine, detergent, or cleaning solution.

In summary, choosing the right cleaning materials is essential to ensure your Muay Thai shorts are clean, fresh, and in good condition. Stick to mild detergents, gentle cleaning solutions, and natural deodorizers like baking soda to keep your shorts looking and feeling their best.

Hand Washing Vs. Machine Washing

Hand Washing

When it comes to washing Muay Thai shorts, hand washing is the safest option. Hand washing allows you to control the washing process and minimize the risk of damage to your shorts. Here are some steps to follow when hand-washing your Muay Thai shorts:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cool or warm water.
2. Add a small amount of mild detergent and mix well.
3. Place your Muay Thai shorts in the water and gently agitate them to loosen any dirt or sweat.
4. Let the shorts soak for 10-15 minutes.
5. Rinse the shorts thoroughly with cool water until all the soap is gone.
6. Gently squeeze out the excess water and hang the shorts to air dry.

Machine Washing

If you don’t have time to hand wash your Muay Thai shorts, machine washing is an option. However, you must be careful when machine-washing your shorts to avoid damaging them. Here are some tips for machine washing your Muay Thai shorts:

1. Turn your shorts inside out before washing them.
2. Place your shorts in a laundry bag to protect them from getting tangled or stretched during the wash cycle.
3. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to prevent any damage to the fabric.
4. Add a small amount of mild detergent to the machine.
5. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as they can damage the fabric.
6. Once the cycle is complete, remove the shorts from the machine and gently squeeze the excess water.
7. Hang the shorts to air dry.

Overall, hand washing is the best option for washing Muay Thai shorts as it minimizes the risk of damage to the fabric. However, if you don’t have time to hand wash, machine washing can be an option if you follow the above-mentioned tips.

Drying Your Muay Thai Shorts

Air Drying

After washing your Muay Thai shorts, it’s essential to dry them properly to prevent damage and fading. Air drying your shorts is one of the best ways to dry them. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Gently wring out excess water from your shorts.
2. Hang your shorts on a clothesline or hanger in a well-ventilated area.
3. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause fading and damage to the fabric.
4. Allow your shorts to air dry completely before wearing them again.

Tumble Drying

You can tumble dry your Muay Thai shorts if you don’t have time to air dry them. However, it’s important to follow these steps to prevent damage:

1. Use a low heat setting on your dryer.
2. Remove your shorts from the dryer as soon as they are dry to prevent over-drying.
3. Avoid using dryer sheets or fabric softeners, as they can cause damage and reduce the fabric’s breathability.

Taking care of your Muay Thai shorts is essential to ensure they last as long as possible. Properly drying them is just one step in the process.

Maintaining the Longevity of Your Shorts

First and foremost, always check the care label on your shorts. This will give you specific instructions on washing and caring for your shorts. If it says to hand wash, then hand wash. If it says to machine wash, then machine wash. Following the care label will help prevent any damage to your shorts.

When washing your shorts, turn them inside out. This will help protect any designs or logos outside the shorts from fading or peeling off. If you’re hand washing, use a gentle detergent and cold water. If you’re machine washing, use a delicate cycle and cold water.

It is advisable to restrict the usage of a dryer for drying Muay Thai shorts. Instead, air dries them. This will help prevent any tears or damage in a dryer. If you must use a dryer, use a low-temperature setting.

Another thing to remember is the water temperature you’re washing your shorts in. Hot water can cause fading and damage to the fabric. Stick to cold water to help preserve the quality of your shorts.

Investing in high-quality Muay Thai gear can also help prolong the lifespan of your shorts. Quality shorts are made with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of Muay Thai training.

Lastly, remember the style. Muay Thai shorts come in various designs and colors, so choose a pair that reflects your style. When you look good, you feel good, and that can make all the difference in your training.

In summary, maintaining the longevity of your Muay Thai shorts is all about following the care label, washing them inside out, air drying them, using cold water, investing in high-quality gear, and choosing a pair that reflects your style.

Additional Muay Thai Gear Care

Cleaning Gloves and Pads

As a Muay Thai fighter, I understand the importance of keeping my gloves and pads clean and hygienic. After each training session, I wipe down my gloves and pads with an anti-bacterial spray to kill any germs and bacteria that may have accumulated during training.

It’s also important to let your gloves and pads dry completely before storing them. I leave mine out in a well-ventilated area to air dry. If you’re training in Bangkok or other humid environments, it’s even more crucial to let your gear dry properly to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Maintaining Shin Guards

Shin guards are an essential piece of Muay Thai gear, requiring proper care to ensure longevity. After each training session, I wipe down my shin guards with an anti-bacterial spray and a damp cloth to remove sweat or dirt buildup.

If you’re using synthetic leather shin guards, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning them. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution to clean them gently.

Caring for Your Mouthguard

Your mouthguard is an essential protective gear that must be cleaned regularly to maintain effectiveness. After each training session, I rinse my mouthguard with cold water and soak it in an anti-bacterial solution for a few minutes.

I also store my mouthguard in a clean, dry case to prevent bacteria buildup. It’s important to replace your mouthguard every few months to ensure it’s still providing adequate protection.

Overall, keeping your Muay Thai gear clean and hygienic is crucial for your health and your gear’s longevity. These simple tips ensure your equipment stays in top condition for your next training session.