Keeping your Muay Thai shorts in top condition doesn’t just preserve their look; it’s essential for hygiene and ensuring they last as long as your fighting spirit. How you clean, dry and store them are key to preservation. Yet, considering the variety of materials that Muay Thai shorts are made from, it’s not always clear what you can and can’t do when it comes to cleaning them. That’s where this step-by-step guide comes in.
Our range of microfiber shorts are designed to be lightweight, breathable and durable. On most, there are additional materials that make up the unique details. All these materials are sensitive to heat and harsh detergents, so special care during cleaning is imperative. It doesn’t take long, nor does it require a load of materials. But it does require you to be attentive.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Careful not to have the water too hot, as it can damage the microfiber. Add a small amount of mild, bleach-free detergent that’s safe for use on sensitive materials. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can impair the wicking capabilities of microfiber.
Step 2: Submerge and Gently Wash
Turn your Muay Thai shorts inside out to protect any prints or embellishments. Submerge them in the prepared solution, gently agitating the water with your hands. Allow them to soak for 15 to 30 minutes. This helps loosen dirt and sweat without vigorous scrubbing that can harm the fabric.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and rinse your shorts under running, cool water. Make sure to remove all soap residue as this can attract dirt and compromise the fabric’s performance. If it’s some of the soapy water is proving stubborn, you can resoak in cool water and gently stir the shorts around a few times. Squeeze out excess water gently – never wring out microfiber clothes, as this can distort their shape.
Step 4: Hang Dry
This bit is critical, as all the work up to this point can be ruined if you dry them out incorrectly. Firstly, lay the shorts flat on a clean towel and roll up the towel, pressing lightly to absorb extra water. Then, hang your Muay Thai shorts in a well-ventilated shade. Avoid direct sunlight and high-heat sources because they can degrade the microfiber.
Avoid tumble drying at all costs! The delicate materials, as well as the waistband, are all susceptible to damage in a tumble dryer. It can easily leave you with a shrunk pair of shorts with a saggy waistband.
Step 5: Storage
Once fully dry, neatly fold your shorts and set them aside, out of direct sunlight. If you’re going to put them straight into your gym bag, make sure they’re not going in alongside uncleaned gloves, shin guards or other apparel/equipment. You should regularly clean all training items, and your gym bag, to minimise odours.
Additional Tips
Spot Cleaning: For small stains, apply a mix of water and mild detergent directly to the area before the full wash. This is especially useful for dried in blood or dirt.
Frequent Washing: If you train regularly, consider having multiple pairs of shorts to avoid daily washes, reducing wear and tear. You may not need to clean your shorts after every training session, however, if they’re sweaty and have made contact with a gym floor, it’s probably best to give them a clean.
Odour Prevention: Once you’re back from training, hang your shorts to air out. Ideally you should take all your gym gear out of your bag to air out and leave the bag open too. Don’t leave shorts to fester in your gym bag as they will make other equipment and apparel smell and potentially impact durability if they are crumbled.
By following these steps, you can ensure your Muay Thai shorts remain vibrant, odour-free, and ready for your next session. Proper care not only keeps them looking great but also extends their lifespan, allowing you to focus fully on your training
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