Stinky Boxing Gloves?
Notice your boxing gloves getting stinky, which makes your hands even stinkier? You’ve got to do something about it before you have to throw them away.
After using your boxing gloves, the nylon or cotton lining will most likely be drenched in sweat. Your hands will sweat no matter what, even with the highest quality boxing gloves that are well ventilated. It does help to wear handwraps, but they will most likely still stink.
Why Do They Stink?
The stink in your boxing gloves is from the growth of mold and bacteria collected from your hands; both thrive in warm and humid environments.
Get Rid of That Stench
To eliminate or minimize odors and mold, air your boxing gloves out before putting them back into your bag, locker or closet. Put them away after the insides have dried thoroughly. If they are particularly wet or you are in a rush to get home, wipe the insides with a soft cloth that can absorb the moisture well. This will expedite the airing out process. However, this is usually not enough to prevent the stench.
For boxing gloves that are particularly smelly, or if you want to keep your boxing gloves odor-free from the start, try this technique instead:
Spritz them lightly with an easy-to-make solution that is simply some alcohol diluted with water. After a few minutes, shove a sock filled and sealed with cedar chips, into each of your boxing gloves (don’t jam the socks inside too much, as they can alter the fit of the gloves). This will soak up the excess moisture and odor.
Don’t bother with those store bought solutions. They’re usually just a way to capitalize on people’s laziness. Rubbing alcohol mixed with water is better, and probably won’t cost you as much. And avoid chemical solutions; they could damage your gloves.
More information on Taking Care of Your Boxing Gloves
January 12th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
What is the ratio of rubbing alcohol to water? 50:50?
January 12th, 2007 at 7:13 pm
Thanks for the response.
The ratio of alcohol to water depends on the lining, and how stinky they are. If your gloves are really stinky, increase the alcohol amount to up to 50%. Don’t use too much alcohol, cause it could damage the lining. Alcohol dries out material, so it could weaken the lining in your gloves if you use too much. Use less alcohol if your gloves aren’t that smelly.