10 BJJ Hygiene Tips I Learned After Getting Staph

You are now going to learn about BJJ Hygiene Tips and There are two types of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners: those who’ve experienced skin infections—and those destined to. Unfortunately, I became part of the first group far sooner than I ever imagined, picking up both ringworm and staph in only three months. Although these infections were painful, they taught me the value of strict hygiene, both for my own sake and for everyone I train with. Not surprisingly, BJJ is a sweaty, full-contact sport, so maintaining stellar hygiene is not just smart; it’s essential. If you want to avoid making the same mistakes I did, follow these ten hygiene commandments I learned the hard way.

Why Hygiene Is Absolutely Critical in BJJ

First and foremost, BJJ isn’t just about learning submissions or mastering guard passes; it’s about respect. In this high-contact sport, our sweat, skin, and bacteria get swapped as effortlessly as grips and sweeps. Thus, without disciplined hygiene, one person’s lapse can impact an entire team. Understanding this, you’ll likely agree: clean habits are more than personal—they’re about community safety. Moreover, outbreaks of staph or ringworm can shut down entire academies, making hygiene everyone’s responsibility.

The High Cost of Neglecting Hygiene in BJJ Hygiene Tips

When you contract staph, you quickly realize the stakes are high. Staph infections can sideline you for weeks or even months, requiring serious antibiotics and sometimes even surgery. Similarly, ringworm, while less dangerous, is highly contagious and quickly spreads through a gym. For this reason, cleanliness is a foundational discipline alongside drilling and sparring.

1. Shower Like Your Health Depends On It (Because It Does)

Not surprisingly, showering is your primary line of defense. Ideally, you should take a shower both before and after class. While some see this as excessive, it’s actually very effective. Showering before training removes bacteria you might bring into the gym from your daily travels. Yet, the most crucial shower is the one you take immediately after class.

With that said, use an antibacterial or antimicrobial soap—look for those that contain tea tree oil, eucalyptus, or chlorhexidine. Let the soap sit on your skin for at least 30 seconds before rinsing; this extra time allows the active ingredients to destroy bacteria and fungi lurking on the skin. For those with sensitive skin, fragrance-free options are available.

Moreover, if your gym has limited showers, consider recent studies suggesting that showering within four hours still significantly reduces infection risk, though sooner is always better.

Pro tip: Always keep a spare towel and mini-bottle of soap in your gym bag. That way, you’re never unprepared.

For a full hygiene checklist, visit our Essential Gym Bag Checklist.

2. Treat Your Gi Like a Biohazard Suit

Let’s face it: your gi is basically a sponge for sweat, bacteria, and dead skin. Consequently, never—under any circumstances—re-wear an unwashed gi, rash guard, or shorts. Instead, as soon as you finish training, put your used gear in a dedicated mesh laundry bag or a clean plastic sack. Never stuff sweaty gear into a closed gym bag, since warm, damp conditions foster bacterial growth.

Once you’re home, wash your gi as soon as possible. Use hot water and quality detergent—bonus points for added vinegar or specialized sports detergents. While some practitioners prefer cold water to protect the fabric, hot water is more effective in killing germs. Afterward, always dry your gi thoroughly; a damp gi is a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria.

Furthermore, it’s wise to own at least two gis. That way, you’re never tempted to reuse dirty gear simply because your main gi hasn’t dried yet.

For more tips, read our in-depth guide on How to Wash Your BJJ Gi.

3. Don’t Forget to Wash Your Belt

Despite the old-school myth that washing your belt will “wash away your knowledge,” the reality is very different. Your belt gets just as dirty as your gi, since it’s constantly handled, squeezed, and dragged across sweaty mats. Accordingly, wash your belt frequently—ideally after every class. If you’re worried about your stripes, iron them on using a permanent method.

In addition, hang your belt to dry in a well-ventilated area to ensure it’s ready for your next session. By developing this habit, you’ll help reduce the spread of bacteria in your gym.

For detailed advice, check out our Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining BJJ Belts.

4. Obsess Over Small Cuts and Scrapes

Seemingly minor cuts and scrapes can become entry points for dangerous bacteria like staph. Therefore, before you even step onto the mat, inspect your body for any open wounds—no matter how small. Prior to training, apply an antibacterial ointment to cuts and cover them securely with a waterproof bandage.

Additionally, it’s a great idea to wear a long-sleeve rash guard and spats, as these create an added barrier between your skin and the mat. If you notice any partner with an open wound, don’t hesitate to speak up or mention it privately to an instructor.

To further protect yourself, read our article on Preventing Ringworm in BJJ.

5. Keep Your Nails Short and Clean

Although nail care might seem trivial, it’s actually crucial. Long nails can scratch training partners, which not only hurts but also increases the risk of skin infections. Moreover, bacteria and fungi can hide under even slightly long nails. Therefore, make nail trimming a non-negotiable part of your weekly routine.

Before training, check both finger and toenails. Regularly use a nail brush to clean underneath them as well. Besides, keeping a spare nail clipper in your gym bag ensures you’re always prepared.

6. Your Gym Bag Matters—A Lot

Often overlooked, your gym bag can be one of the dirtiest items you own. After all, it absorbs sweat and harbors bacteria from your dirty gear. For this reason, opt for a gym bag with ventilation holes and cleanable compartments. After every training session, empty your bag completely—even if you don’t plan to wash it that day.

Additionally, use antimicrobial bag inserts or sachets filled with tea tree oil to combat odor and bacteria growth. Once a week, wipe down your gym bag’s interior with disinfectant. Never store damp gear in your bag overnight. Not only does this habit keep your bag smelling fresh, but it also prevents bacteria and fungi from spreading back to your clean gear.

Check our Best BJJ Gym Bags for 2024 for top recommendations.

7. Be a Clean—and Considerate—Training Partner

It may seem obvious, but if you’re sick or have unexplained skin issues, don’t train. In fact, this is one of the most important lessons I learned. Although it’s tempting to “tough it out,” you risk spreading bacteria and viruses to everyone you roll with. If in doubt, it’s always better to take a day off and get checked by a doctor.

Equally important, if you notice unusual rashes or wounds on a teammate, bring it up tactfully or alert your instructor. Everyone benefits when the team prioritizes health and transparency.

For more on etiquette and safety, check out our Mat Etiquette & Safety.

8. Fungal Defense: Don’t Let Athlete’s Foot or Ringworm Win

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments—namely, sweaty gyms and mats. Prevent them by keeping your feet dry and changing socks promptly after class. Furthermore, use antifungal powders or sprays (such as those containing miconazole nitrate) before and after training, especially in your shoes or on your bare feet.

If you ever notice itchy, red, or circular rashes, start antifungal treatment immediately and take a break from training. Additionally, never share towels or flip-flops in the locker room.

For a deep dive, check How to Prevent Fungal Infections in BJJ.

9. Baby Wipes: The Best Quick Fix When You Can’t Shower

Sometimes, life, work, or crowded gyms make showering immediately after training impossible. In those cases, baby wipes become your best friend. Conveniently, you can use them to wipe down your face, neck, arms, and any exposed skin right after class. Choose wipes with tea tree oil or other natural antimicrobials for extra protection.

Not only do wipes remove sweat and bacteria, but they also buy you extra time until you can take a proper shower. Nevertheless, remember that this is only a stopgap—always shower as soon as you get home.

Find more practical advice in our Complete Post-Training Hygiene Guide.

10. Cover Up for Extra Protection

While it may be warmer to train in long-sleeve rash guards and spats, the benefits far outweigh the minor inconvenience. These garments create a physical barrier between your skin and the mats, significantly reducing your risk of mat burns, cuts, fungal infections, and staph. Many high-quality rash guards are made with antimicrobial fabrics, further reducing infection risk.

In addition to function, rash guards help wick away sweat, keeping you more comfortable during intense rolls. Over time, this simple change can radically decrease your chances of contracting mat-borne illnesses.

For a full breakdown, check out the Benefits of Using Rash Guards.

Making Hygiene Part of Your BJJ Lifestyle

At first glance, maintaining all these steps may seem overwhelming. However, with consistent practice, these habits will become second nature. What’s more, you’ll find yourself reaping the rewards in both performance and community respect. After all, a healthy teammate is a valued teammate! Each small step combines to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

Internal Links for Continued Learning

Looking to go deeper? Here are valuable resources covering additional BJJ Hygiene Tips strategies and best practices:

Conclusion

In summary, BJJ Hygiene Tips is an integral part of BJJ—not just for personal health, but for community well-being. If you neglect showering, washing your gear, or covering cuts, the risk of infections like staph or ringworm soars. While strict hygiene takes a little extra effort, the payoff is clear: longer mat time, fewer injuries, and a deeper sense of mutual respect on the mats. Although I learned these lessons the hard way, you have the chance to protect yourself and become a role model for gym etiquette. Take these habits seriously, adapt them to your daily routine, and help create a safer, stronger BJJ community for everyone. So, stay clean, roll hard, and keep yourself—and your teammates—healthy.

FAQ: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Hygiene & Staph Prevention

1. What should I do if I notice a skin rash or sore after BJJ?
If you spot any redness, bumps, or circular rashes, stop training immediately and consult a doctor. Early intervention can prevent more serious infections and stop germs from spreading to others.

2. Can I wash my belt, or will it ruin my stripes?
You absolutely can—and should—wash your belt. To keep your stripes intact, iron them on with a permanent method before washing, and let your belt air dry.

3. Are baby wipes a substitute for showering after class?
No, baby wipes are only a temporary solution. While they can help you remove sweat and some bacteria right after training, always shower as soon as possible for true cleanliness.

4. Should I wear a rash guard under my gi for every session?
Yes, wearing a rash guard (and even spats) can significantly reduce your chance of skin infections. They create a barrier between your skin and bacteria on the mat and your training partners.

5. How can I help teammates maintain better hygiene?
Lead by example: keep your gear clean, encourage others to shower and care for themselves, and speak up (politely) if you notice risky hygiene habits. Building a culture of respect starts with you.

By following these hygiene tips, you not only protect yourself but also strengthen the entire team. Make mat cleanliness a priority from day one, and enjoy your BJJ journey with confidence and health!