Washing Instructions

Washing Instructions Ouano International wants you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. Please read these simple washing recommendations in order for you to get the most out of your gi! 1. Wash your Gi every single time after training in cold water only! If you notice that your gi is beginning to keep unwanted odors try white vinegar, not bleach. Bleach will make your gi stiff and will dramatically shorten it’s life by weakening the fabric. Vinegar, on the other hand, will help eliminate odors, without destroying the fabric in the process. A 5% solution of vinegar and water is also a natural, non-toxic antiseptic that will kill 99% of germs. So, try adding white vinegar to the bleach bin of your washing machine instead of bleach (1/4 cup to 1 cup, depending on the size of the load). 2. Line Dry your gi only! All Ouano International gi’s are made of high quality pre-shrunk cotton. Only a little shrinkage is expected within the first couple of wash and dry cycles. However, if you dry your gi in a dryer the fabric breaks down over time and you will damage and shrink the gi. When you line dry, does your gi feel like it could stand up on it’s own? That stiffness is from residual soap. Vinegar added to the final rinse of washing helps get the soap out, so you don’t end up with a cardboard gi when you’re done. A 3. Do not allow your gi to become a home for bacteria! Make sure you allow your gi to dry completely before training in it again. Failure to do so we cause your gi to keep bacteria within the fabric and cause a horrible smelling gi and potential for ring worm. If your gi starts to get that funky smell and doesn’t go away, even when you are using vinegar, then try baking soda or Borax. Vinegar is an acid and will only work if the smell is associated with bacteria. Using baking soda or Borax individually or together during the washing cycle usually kills real stubborn odors.